Hawkesworth Appliance Testing has long been known for PAT testing and now has over 100 qualified engineers nationwide. The company carried out over 7 million tests last year and also conducts EICR tests which examine the fixed wiring in a building.

However, in addition, Hawkesworth can now carry out fire risk assessments which are required by law. Every employer has a duty of care to his or her employees and there is now a requirement that all employers of five or more people must not only carry out a fire risk assessment, but must also keep a written record of it and repeat the assessment from time to time.

There is no time specifically set, but it is generally accepted that a fire risk assessment should be carried out once a year, and also when anything changes. This could be something as simple as taking on a new employee or moving machinery around in a factory which might hinder or block what was previously an escape route.

In order to carry out a fire risk assessment it is necessary to identify fire hazards; identify people at risk; evaluate, remove, or reduce the risk; have an emergency escape plan; provide training for staff; and keep a written record of the findings. A fire drill should also be carried out once a year.

There are a lot of things to consider including emergency exits and escape routes, fire detection and warning systems, firefighting equipment – fire extinguishers, sand buckets, and so on - storage of flammable substances, how to evacuate people on the premises who may be disabled, and more. Staff training is critical. Suppose you operate a retail store and you have a disabled customer in a wheelchair on the third floor: how do you get this customer out safely if the lifts are out of order? All these things need to be allowed for.

It is also necessary to check regularly that all alarm systems are functioning correctly and that any emergency lighting is working. All escape routes must be kept clear and exit doors open easily. Automatic fire doors should close properly, and fire exit signs should be easily visible.

As can be readily seen, there is a considerable amount of thought that has to go into undertaking a fire risk assessment which is why most employers today prefer to enlist the services of a company that has specially trained assessors such as Hawkesworth Appliance Testing.

About The Company: Hawkesworth Appliance Testing is a specialist PAT testing and EICR inspection company. The company also has qualified inspectors who can carry out fire risk assessments anywhere in the UK. For further information contact Lella Raw and Yvonne Lewis on 01845 524498 or email [email protected].
https://www.hawkesworthappliancetesting.co.uk/
Hawkesworth Appliance Testing Limited
Guidance House
York Road
Thirsk
North Yorkshire
England
Yorkshire
YO7 3BT