The safety of any organisation’s occupants, be it a corporate office, a university, or a community centre, relies heavily on effective and efficient fire risk assessments (FRAs).

However, a concerning trend has emerged, where the duration between the initiation of a fire risk assessment and its results being available is extending beyond acceptable limits.

The result? Potentially vulnerable individuals remain at risk.

Understanding Fire Risk Assessments

At its core, a Fire Risk Assessment is a structured process where potential fire risks in a building or premises are identified, and the adequacy of existing safety measures is evaluated. These assessments are vital for ensuring that structures are equipped to protect their inhabitants against fire threats.

So, how long should organisations realistically wait for Fire Risk Assessment results?

The Dilemma: Duration of Fire Risk Assessments

In an ideal world, FRAs should be both thorough and swift, given the high stakes.

However, due to the complexity of some structures, or the workload of assessment professionals, there can be delays. It’s crucial to understand that while thoroughness cannot be compromised, a balance must be struck to ensure timely results.

The Risks of Prolonged Evaluations

The key concern here is not just the extended waiting period, but its potential misuse. Some organisations might intentionally or unintentionally use the assessment period as a reason to delay necessary safety measures, especially for those individuals requiring special assistance.

Every minute that a building remains under assessment without protective measures in place, individuals are at risk. The elderly, children, or those with disabilities remain unprotected. In cases of fire emergencies, these individuals would be disproportionately affected due to their unique needs.

Immediate Action: The Need for Evacuation Devices

Even as a building undergoes evaluation, it’s essential that mechanisms be put in place to protect those who are most vulnerable.

If there’s knowledge of individuals who might require assistance during evacuations, that realisation should trigger immediate action and the introduction of evacuation devices.

Evacuation devices, ranging from specialised chairs to assistive lifts, can provide immediate solutions. Their provision ensures that no individual, regardless of their physical capabilities, is left without a safe means of exit during an emergency.

In many cases, these devices are portable and can be utilised without any alterations to the building’s structure, making them a feasible and immediate protective measure.

The Way Forward

Organisations need to adopt a proactive approach. While waiting for comprehensive fire risk assessment results, interim safety measures should be deployed, especially for known at-risk individuals. Collaboration with fire safety experts and consultants can help in identifying these interim measures.

Follow this link for advice from the UK Government on fire risk assessments.

The safety of every individual, especially the most vulnerable among us, is a responsibility that cannot be postponed.

Don’t wait for an emergency to realise the need for proper evacuation solutions, especially when considering the pivotal role of evacuation devices in ensuring a swift and safe exit. While it’s essential to maintain regular communication with occupants and keep them informed about ongoing safety assessments involving these devices, immediate action is paramount. Every moment of hesitation or delay could compromise the safety and confidence of those within your premises.

At Evaccess, we recognise the significance of evacuation devices in crisis scenarios. We urge organisations to act decisively and responsibly, understanding the immense responsibility they hold. Why risk the wellbeing of those in your care when a comprehensive solution, complete with state-of-the-art evacuation devices, is at hand?

With our range of state-of-the-art evacuation chairs and stair climbers, you can bridge the safety gap even during fire risk assessment evaluations and ensure a robust, long-term safety protocol.

If you are waiting for a fire risk assessment, this is the time to consider evacuation devices. You can find our comprehensive range of exclusive evacuation chairs and stair climbers at https://evaccess.uk/

The path to enhanced safety is clear and straightforward. Don’t wait.

Every step you take today fortifies your commitment to safety tomorrow. Act now!

Get In. Get Out. Together.