Factories, warehouses, and other industrial sites often face elevated fire risks due to flammable materials, complex machinery, and high-density storage. Every industrial site must have a fire risk assessment, and an emergency plan tailored to its operations.
To DO’s
- Get a tailored, documented fire risk assessment
- Plan and test your Emergency and evacuation plans
- Take proactive steps to reduce arson and control fire hazards
Fire Risk Assessment Requirements
- All industrial premises must have a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment
- Review regularly, especially after layout, equipment, or occupancy changes.
- Assessments must consider:
- Combustible stock or waste
- Use of flammable liquids or chemicals
- Machinery or heat-producing equipment
- Shared areas if the building is multi-occupied
- Identify all fire hazards and sources of ignition
For complex sites, use a qualified fire risk assessor (gov.uk)
Emergency Plans & Evacuation
Your emergency plan must:
- Be based on your fire risk assessment findings
- Ensure safe and timely evacuation
- Be communicated clearly to staff
- Include regular evacuation drills
Arson Prevention
Arson is a serious risk in industrial zones. 80% of businesses that experience a severe fire never fully recover.
Steps to reduce arson risk:
- Store waste securely and clear flammable clutter
- Improve security (locks, lighting, surveillance)
- Report suspicious behaviour or small fires to authorities
Further Guidance
Quick Links
- Competent Fire Risk Assessors (gov.uk)
- Factories & Warehouse – Fire Risk Assessment Guide (gov.uk)
- Qualified Fire Risk Assessor (gov.uk)
- Evacuation Strategies
- Secure Information Boxes (SIBs) & Premises Information Boxes (PIB)
- Fire Safety Signage and Wayfinding
- Fire safety risk assessment: transport premises and facilities - GOV.UK
- Fire safety risk assessment: factories and warehouses - GOV.UK