Offices and Shops

Offices and shops are used daily by the public and employees, meaning compliance with fire safety regulations is essential.

A safe and well-managed environment reduces fire risk and supports staff and visitor protection.

To DO’s

• Offices and shops must carry out and record a fire risk assessment
  
• Escape routes, fire equipment, and signage must be regularly inspected
  
• Fire risk assessment in premises located in a multi-occupied building must include a consideration of other users

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Fire Risk Assessment

All Responsible Persons must:

• Keep a written fire risk assessment
• Record significant findings
• Review and update it regularly, especially after any layout or changes of use

The assessment should cover:

• Fire hazards, sources of ignition and fuel
• Occupants at risk, including visitors and staff
• Shared escape routes and common areas

Fire Risk Assessment Guide for Offices and Shops (gov.uk)

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Core Fire Safety Measures

• Correct and maintained signage and emergency lighting
• Clear, unobstructed escape routes
• Regular checks on fire extinguishers and other fire safety systems

Fire Safety Signage and Wayfinding

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Sleeping Accommodation Considerations

If your premises contains sleeping accommodation, those using it must have their own protected means of escape and there must be an interlinked fire alarm system

• Ensure fire alarms can alert sleeping occupants
• Coordinate evacuation planning across uses

Sleeping Accommodation Fire Safety

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Further Guidance

• Your Fire Safety Responsibilities in the Workplace
• Fire Risk Assessment Templates

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