What are the four types of fire risk assessment? And How Do I Know Which I Need?

Need help to understand what are the four types of Fire Risk Assessment and which one your business needs? Below we have put together a complete guide to the four types of Fire Risk Assessment which are deployed in the UK.

1) Type 1 – Non Destructive FRA

A Type 1 non destructive fire risk assessment is the most common to be carried out in the UK. Type 1 Fire Risk Assessments (FRA) are non destructive and the fundamental level of assessment needed for UK businesses.

It involves identifying potential fire hazards, assessing the likelihood of a fire occurrence, and evaluating the ability of occupants to evacuate safely.

2) Type 2 – Destructive Sampling FRA

Type 2 Fire Risk Assessments are infrequent and typically suggested only when a Type 1 FRA determines the presence of significant structural vulnerabilities in a building, which pose an elevated risk of fire spreading.

Incorporating destructive sampling, a Type 2 FRA can massively escalate costs due to the necessity of involving a contractor and usually specialist access equipment.

3) Type 3 – Communal Areas & Flats FRA

A Type 3 Fire Risk Assessment is the second most common carried out in the UK and is for use when there are multiple dwellings in one building with shared spaces. They include everything from a Type 1 FRA, but also comprehensively addresses all communal spaces within a building, including individual residences.

Incorporating an evaluation of all escape routes (including those within individual dwellings), structures, and compartmentation between flats, a Type 3 FRA is non-destructive and typically deemed essential only when fire risks are identified within individual dwellings.

Landlords and building owners may encounter challenges in coordinating Type 3 FRAs, as they necessitate access to individual dwellings. The process is often more straightforward when living spaces are vacant.

4) Type 4 – Destructive FRA Communal Areas & Flats

Type 4 Fire Risk Assessments share similarities with Type 2 FRAs, involving destructive sampling in both communal areas and living spaces, including apartments. However, Type 4 FRAs are more intricate and demanding to conduct. This is due to the necessity of access to individual dwellings, and the potential need for repairs resulting from the destructive sampling process.

The requirement for a Type 4 FRA is very limited and typically only arises under special specific circumstances. It is generally recommended when there are indications of significant defects in both the common areas of a building and individual dwellings.

How UK Fire Consultants Can Help

Understanding what are the four types of Fire Risk Assessments in the UK is vital for maintaining a safe environment. Whether it’s a Type 1 for a small office or an Type 4 for a complex apartment block, each assessment plays a crucial role in mitigating fire risks and ensuring the safety of occupants.

Type 1 and type 3 are the most common FRA that we undertake everyday, but if you are unsure which you need or for more information please do get in touch.