law

Myth-busting: “I only need one fire risk assessment for the whole building.” Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO 2005), the responsible person must ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out for each premises they control (Article 9). If you manage multiple floors, blocks, or separate tenancies, each distinct area with different risks (e.g., a café below flats) needs its own assessment. The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 also reinforce that shared areas (like corridors and exits) must be included. PAS 79 (clause 4.2) stresses that assessments must reflect actual occupancy and layout. One generic document can miss critical hazards. Keep assessments specific to what you control. General guidance, not formal legal advice — book a HawkSwift assessment for your premises.