Fire Risk Assessment Ireland

A fire risk assessment is a systematic examination of your premises to identify fire hazards, evaluate the risks to people, and recommend measures to reduce or eliminate those risks. It is the recognised method for determining what fire safety measures are needed in your building and is a legal requirement under the Fire Services Acts.

Any person who has control over premises that are not solely domestic dwellings needs to ensure adequate fire safety measures are in place. This includes offices, shops, factories, hotels, schools, nursing homes, churches, and all other non-domestic premises. A fire risk assessment is the starting point for determining what measures are needed.

A fire risk assessment should be reviewed regularly and whenever there are significant changes to the premises, occupancy, or use. As a general guideline, we recommend a full review at least every 12 months for most premises, and more frequently for higher-risk premises such as nursing homes, hotels, and premises with sleeping accommodation.

PAS 79-1:2020 is the recognised published document that provides guidance on fire risk assessment methodology for buildings. It establishes the structure, content, and rigour expected of a professional fire risk assessment. Following PAS 79-1:2020 ensures that your assessment is comprehensive, consistent, and defensible.

The National Fire Risk Assessment Register (NFRAR) is an independent register of fire risk assessors who have demonstrated their competence through qualification, experience, and assessment. Registration at Advanced level confirms that the assessor is competent to assess complex and high-risk premises.

You receive a detailed PAS 79-1:2020 report with findings categorised by risk level and a prioritised action plan with timelines. We walk you through the findings and provide practical guidance on implementing the recommendations. We can also schedule follow-up reviews to track progress.

The duration depends on the size, complexity, and use of the premises. A small office may take half a day, while a large hotel or hospital could require several days. We provide a detailed timeline as part of our initial consultation.

Yes. Every assessment addresses compliance with IS 3218:2024 (fire detection and alarm systems) and IS 3217:2023 (emergency lighting) as well as the Fire Services Acts, Building Control Regulations, and relevant health and safety legislation.

Yes. We specialise in fire risk assessments for nursing homes and designated centres regulated by HIQA. Our assessments address the specific requirements of Regulation 28 and produce reports that demonstrate compliance to HIQA inspectors.

Our fire risk assessors hold BEng degrees in fire engineering and are registered at Advanced level with the NFRAR. They are members of professional bodies including the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) and meet the competence requirements of BS 8674:2025.

A fire risk assessment is a formal, structured methodology (PAS 79-1:2020) that identifies hazards, evaluates risks to people, and produces prioritised recommendations. A fire safety audit is typically a compliance check against specific standards or regulations. An assessment is more comprehensive and forms the foundation of your fire safety management strategy.

Yes. We provide fire risk assessments for all premises types including construction sites. Construction sites present unique fire risks including hot works, temporary electrical installations, combustible materials storage, and limited means of escape. Our assessors have experience assessing these specific hazards.