Every non-domestic building in England needs a fire risk assessment. This comprehensive guide explains your legal obligations, the PAS 79 process, and common pitfalls to avoid.. Your Legal Obligation Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the Responsible Person must carry out a fire risk assessment for any non domestic premises, including common parts of residential buildings. Who Is the Responsible Person? Building owner (if they have control) Employer (in workplaces) Managing agent or freeholder (in residential) Any person with control of premises The PAS 79 Process PAS 79 1:2020 provides the standard framework: Step 1: Identify Fire Hazards Sources of ignition Sources of fuel Sources of oxygen Step 2: Identify People at Risk Employees, residents, visitors Vulnerable persons (elderly, disabled, children) Sleeping occupants Step 3: Evaluate, Remove, Reduce Risk Can hazards be eliminated? Can risks be reduced? What fire safety measures are in place? Step 4: Record, Plan, Train Document the assessment Create an action plan for deficiencies Ensure staff training Step 5: Review Regularly At least annually After any significant change Following any fire incident Common Pitfalls 1. Using unqualified assessors 2. Not covering external walls (now required under FSA 2021) 3. Failing to action recommendations 4. Not reviewing after changes 5. Paper only exercise without physical inspection For PAS 79 compliant fire risk assessments, contact Magnus Opifex.