As the festive season fades and businesses across the UK return to their normal routines, January presents the perfect opportunity to take stock of safety measures and plan for the year ahead. Among the most important priorities for any business should be reviewing and updating your fire safety strategy. A cornerstone of this process is carrying out a fire risk assessment – something that is not only a legal requirement but also a vital step in protecting staff, customers, and premises.
In this blog, we explore why January is such a good time to commission a fresh fire risk assessment, what the process involves, and how doing so can provide peace of mind for the year to come.
Why Fire Risk Assessments Matter
Every business, regardless of size or industry, has a legal duty under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 to carry out a fire risk assessment. This involves identifying potential fire hazards, evaluating the risks, and implementing measures to reduce or remove them.
It’s not simply about meeting regulations. A thorough fire risk assessment helps:
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Safeguard employees and visitors.
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Protect valuable assets and stock.
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Minimise the risk of operational downtime caused by fire incidents.
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Demonstrate compliance to insurers, landlords, and regulators.
Failing to keep assessments up to date can lead to hefty fines or, in extreme cases, prosecution. More importantly, it could mean that lives are put at risk unnecessarily.
Why January Is the Perfect Time for a Review
1. A Natural Reset Point
The new year is a period when many organisations set new budgets, review policies, and plan operational strategies. Adding fire safety to this list ensures it receives the same level of attention as other business-critical issues.
2. Post-Holiday Changes
Offices, shops, and warehouses often undergo changes in layout or stock levels during the festive season. Temporary displays, decorations, or storage arrangements may introduce new hazards. A January review helps to identify and rectify these before they become long-term risks.
3. Seasonal Hazards
Winter months bring added fire safety challenges such as increased use of heating equipment, electrical appliances, and even temporary lighting. A fire risk assessment at this time of year ensures these factors are considered and properly managed.
4. Planning for Compliance in 2026
Legislation and best practice guidance are continually updated. By scheduling a review in January, businesses ensure they begin the year compliant and reduce the chance of fire safety tasks being overlooked later on when workloads increase.
What Does a Fire Risk Assessment Involve?
A professional fire risk assessment typically follows five key steps:
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Identify Fire Hazards
This includes sources of ignition (heaters, electrical equipment), sources of fuel (paper, packaging, flammable liquids), and sources of oxygen (ventilation, air conditioning). -
Identify People at Risk
Staff, visitors, and contractors all need to be considered. Vulnerable groups, such as those with mobility issues, should be given special attention. -
Evaluate, Remove, or Reduce Risks
This stage involves deciding how best to eliminate hazards or minimise their impact. It may include upgrading fire doors, testing alarms, or improving escape routes. -
Record Findings and Implement Measures
For businesses with five or more employees, findings must be recorded. Action plans should be created and shared with the relevant staff. -
Review and Update Regularly
A fire risk assessment is not a one-off task. Regular reviews ensure any changes in building use, layout, or occupancy are accounted for.
The Benefits of Starting the Year with a Fresh Assessment
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Peace of Mind – You can operate confidently knowing that fire safety measures are current and robust.
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Employee Confidence – Staff feel reassured that their wellbeing is prioritised.
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Financial Protection – Insurers may look more favourably on businesses that demonstrate proactive risk management.
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Operational Efficiency – Identifying risks early can prevent costly disruption caused by fire damage or enforcement action.
Common Issues Uncovered in January
When conducting fire risk assessments early in the year, assessors often find:
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Portable heaters placed too close to flammable materials.
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Emergency exits blocked by seasonal stock or decorations.
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Expired fire extinguishers that were overlooked during busy trading periods.
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Electrical systems strained by temporary lighting and additional devices.
By catching these issues now, businesses can address them quickly and avoid problems later in the year.
Partnering with Professionals
While some businesses attempt to conduct fire risk assessments internally, there is no substitute for using a qualified professional. A specialist will have the experience to spot issues that may otherwise be missed and the knowledge to ensure compliance with the latest standards.
Morgan Fire, for example, provides comprehensive fire risk assessments tailored to the unique needs of each business. Their team not only identifies hazards but also provides clear, practical recommendations to improve safety and ensure full compliance with fire safety law.
Making Fire Safety a Resolution for 2026
The start of the year is traditionally a time for resolutions – and while many of these focus on health or finances, fire safety should not be overlooked. Committing to a fresh fire risk assessment in January sets the tone for a year of compliance, security, and confidence.
Whether you operate a small office, a retail store, or a large industrial site, the principle remains the same: fire safety is non-negotiable. By acting now, you protect not just your assets and operations but also the lives of the people who rely on you.
Final Thoughts
January is more than just a fresh calendar page; it’s a chance to put safety first and start the year on the right foot. A thorough fire risk assessment ensures that your business is compliant, prepared, and protected for the challenges of 2026.
If your last assessment is out of date – or if you’ve recently changed how your premises are used – now is the time to book a review with a trusted fire safety partner.
For expert help with all aspects of fire safety, including fire risk assessments, fire extinguisher maintenance, emergency lighting, and fire alarm servicing, contact Morgan Fire today on 0800 0856381. Our experienced team is here to keep your business compliant and protected throughout 2026.
