Fire Risk Assessments: What’s Involved and Why They Matter

Fire Risk Assessments: What’s Involved and Why They Matter

Fire risk assessments are a critical element of effective fire safety management and legal compliance. At ORS, as Ireland’s largest fire safety consultancy, we carry out high-level fire risk assessments across a wide range of existing building types, including hospitals, warehouses, apartment blocks, commercial premises, and dwelling houses.

Our assessments are designed to identify potential fire hazards, evaluate existing fire safety measures, and provide clear, practical recommendations to reduce risk and protect life and property.

Why Fire Risk Assessments Are Essential

A robust fire risk assessment helps building owners and duty holders to:

• Meet fire safety legislation and compliance obligations

• Protect occupants, visitors, and property

• Identify fire risks before they become critical or costly

• Support insurance, audit, and regulatory requirements

• Maintain a safe environment as buildings and occupancy change

Fire risk assessments are not a one-off exercise, they should be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain current and effective.

Our Fire Risk Assessment Process

Each fire risk assessment begins with a detailed on-site inspection carried out by our experienced fire safety engineers. The inspection focuses on identifying sub-standard fire safety items and assessing the effectiveness of existing measures, including:

• Passive fire protection: compartmentation, fire walls & fire doors, fire stopping and penetration sealing
• Active fire protection: fire alarms, emergency lighting, suppression systems, where applicable
• Means of escape: exit routes and doors, travel distances, signage and emergency egress arrangements
• Access and facilities for the fire service: vehicle access, fire hydrants, firefighting facilities and equipment
• Fire safety management: fire registers and documentation, fire wardens and staff training, housekeeping and management procedures

Fire Risk Assessment Reporting and Recommendations

Following the inspection, we compile a detailed fire risk assessment report, which includes:

• Photographic records of findings

• Identification of key fire safety risks

• Clear, prioritised recommendations

• Guidance on required remedial or upgrade works

Our reports are practical, easy to understand, and designed to support informed decision-making and compliance.

How Often Should a Fire Risk Assessment Be Carried Out?

As best practice, ORS recommends that fire risk assessments are completed every two years. However, assessments should also be reviewed sooner if there are significant changes to:

• Building layout or use

• Occupancy levels

• Fire safety systems

• Relevant legislation or guidance

Regular reviews help ensure ongoing compliance and continued protection for building occupants.

Who Needs a Fire Risk Assessment?

Fire risk assessments are required for many building types, including:

• Commercial and industrial premises

• Healthcare and educational facilities

• Apartment blocks and multi-occupancy residential buildings

• Public sector buildings

Get Expert Fire Risk Assessment Support

If you would like more information on what is involved in a professional fire risk assessment, or if you have a property you would like assessed, please contact our Fire Safety team at info@ors.ie or call 01 524 2060 to arrange a consultation or site visit.