PAS79-2:2020 has now been withdrawn and replaced with a new standard, BS 9792:2025 – The new standard is applicable to all types of living accommodation, including Fire Risk Assessments for the communal or common areas of flats and apartments, supported living accommodation, HMOs, and nursing and care homes Make sure that your Fire Risk Assessment is carried out to the latest standard and gives you Clear, Calm Guidance You Can Rely On.
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Fire safety can feel overwhelming, especially when responsibilities, regulations, and standards are involved. A fire risk assessment should do the opposite – it should give you clarity, confidence, and reassurance that the right measures are in place.
BS 9792:2025 provides a helpful framework for achieving this. In this article, we explain what a fire risk assessment involves, how BS 9792:2025 fits in, and why a well-considered assessment is an important part of looking after people and property.
What Is a Fire Risk Assessment?
A fire risk assessment is a practical review of a building to understand how fire could start, how it might spread, and how people would be kept safe if it did.
It looks at things such as:
- Potential sources of fire
- Who may be at risk, including visitors and vulnerable occupants
- The effectiveness of existing fire safety measures
- Whether any improvements are needed
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the responsible person must ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is in place and reviewed regularly. When done properly, it becomes a useful management tool rather than a paperwork exercise.
What Is BS 9792:2025?
BS 9792:2025 is a British Standard that offers clear guidance on how fire risk assessments should be carried out and recorded. It supports existing fire safety legislation by encouraging a consistent, structured, and transparent approach.
Rather than adding complexity, the standard helps bring clarity by setting out:
- What should be considered during an assessment
- How fire risk can be evaluated in a balanced way
- What clear, professional reporting looks like
- The importance of assessor competence
Why BS 9792:2025 Matters
Consistency You Can Trust
Fire risk assessments should be dependable. BS 9792:2025 promotes a consistent approach, helping ensure assessments are thorough, understandable, and aligned with recognised good practice.
Clear and Proportionate Advice
The standard supports sensible risk judgement. This means recommendations are based on the actual level of risk, not worst-case assumptions, allowing you to focus on what genuinely matters.
Confidence in Competence
BS 9792:2025 highlights the importance of using assessors with the right knowledge and experience. This provides reassurance that conclusions and advice are well-founded.
Reports That Are Easy to Use
A fire risk assessment should support decision-making. Reports aligned with BS 9792:2025 are structured to be clear and practical, making it easier to understand priorities and take appropriate action.
Who Is This Relevant For?
Fire risk assessments aligned with BS 9792:2025 are suitable for a wide range of premises, including:
- Offices and commercial buildings
- Residential blocks and HMOs
- Care homes and healthcare settings
- Schools and educational premises
- Industrial and mixed-use buildings
They are particularly helpful where buildings are more complex or where additional reassurance is needed.
What You Can Expect From a BS 9792:2025-Aligned Assessment
A well-prepared fire risk assessment should give you confidence. Typically, it will include:
- A clear overview of the building and its use
- Identification of fire hazards and risks
- Consideration of all occupants, including those who may need additional support
- A review of escape routes, fire detection, warning systems, and emergency lighting
- A clear explanation of fire risk levels
- A prioritised, realistic action plan