Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the ‘Responsible Person’ is legally accountable for fire safety in non-domestic premises. This is typically the building owner, employer, or managing agent. Their duties include carrying out or commissioning a fire risk assessment, ensuring fire protection systems are maintained, and keeping accurate records of all inspections and servicing.

A dry riser is a pipe system installed in a building that remains empty until the fire brigade connects to it at street level and pumps water up to tackle a fire. A wet riser is permanently charged with water under pressure, ready for immediate use. Dry risers are typically required in buildings between 18 and 50 metres in height; wet risers are used in taller buildings where instant water pressure is needed.

A fire risk assessment should be reviewed regularly and updated whenever there is a significant change to the premises — such as a change in use, structural alterations, a change in the number of occupants, or following a fire or near-miss incident. As a minimum, most fire safety professionals recommend a full review every 12 months, though higher-risk premises may require more frequent assessments.

Sprinkler systems are increasingly required in new residential buildings in the UK, particularly in Wales (mandatory in all new homes since 2016) and in higher-risk residential developments in England. BS 9251 sets out the standard for the design, installation, and maintenance of residential and domestic sprinkler systems. Even where not legally required, sprinklers significantly reduce fire risk and can lower insurance premiums for landlords and property owners.