A document has now been released witch outlines the criteria for assessing the competence of fire risk assessors. The document sets out broad criteria for fire risk assessors of “simple buildings” – where the fire risk assessor might be an employee of the occupier – and “complex buildings”, which will require higher levels of knowledge, understanding and experience on the part of the fire risk assessor.
Under the criteria most fire risk assessors would need to be able to demonstrate:
- Evidence of specialist training and experience, or
- Membership of a professional body, or
- Certification by a third party certification body.
To satisfy the criteria they have appropriate knowledge of:
- The assessment of risk from fire
- Applicable legislation
- Appropriate guidance
- Behaviour of fire in premises
- Effects of fire on people and behaviour of people in fire situations
- Means of escape
- Fire prevention
- Fire protection
- Management of fire safety
We welcome this direction of travel regarding the competency of fire risk assessors, which should assist organisations to check that they are appointing the correct person for their premises.