Why fire risk assessments matter
Fire safety isn’t just a regulatory box to tick — it’s essential for protecting your patients, staff, and property. Dental practices involve the use of electronic equipment, chemicals, and materials that can pose a fire risk if not properly managed.
By carrying out a professional fire risk assessment, you identify potential hazards, evaluate existing safety measures, and ensure you’re fully compliant with fire safety regulations. It’s a proactive step toward safeguarding lives and maintaining uninterrupted care for your patients.
Why our risk assessments are different
- Comprehensive fire risk audit
- Regulatory compliance
- Bespoke risk reports
- Escape route evaluation
- Fire detection & alarm review
- Equipment check
- Staff training recommendations
- Documentation review
- Follow-up support
Our fire risk assessment includes a comprehensive review of your premises, identifying ignition sources, flammable materials, and at-risk individuals. We assess escape routes, alarm systems, fire-fighting equipment, and safety signage. The goal is to highlight areas of concern and outline necessary measures to reduce risks and enhance safety.
We also evaluate:
- Structural fire resistance
- Electrical and gas safety
- Storage and disposal of hazardous substances
The designated “responsible person” — typically the practice owner or manager — is legally required to ensure fire safety compliance. This includes conducting the fire risk assessment, implementing necessary precautions, maintaining equipment, and ensuring staff are trained.
Failure to comply can lead to legal penalties, enforcement notices, or even practice closure in severe cases.
A fire risk assessment should be reviewed:
- Annually
- When significant changes occur, such as renovations or layout changes
- After a fire incident or near-miss
Regular reviews ensure continued compliance and protection for staff, patients, and your practice. We recommend scheduling an annual reassessment even if no major changes have occurred, as part of your ongoing risk management.
As a dental practice owner, you need to:
- Carry out a fire safety risk assessment
- Keep sources of ignition and flammable substances apart
- Ensure good housekeeping at all times
- Consider how to detect fires and how to warn people quickly if they start
- Have the correct fire-fighting equipment for putting a fire out quickly
- Keep fire exits and escape routes clearly marked and unobstructed at all times
- Ensure your staff receive appropriate training on procedures they need to follow, including fire drill
Get your practice Fire risk assessment in 3 simple steps
Step 1 - Request a quote
Get in touch with our team to discuss your dental practice needs. We’ll provide a tailored quote based on the size and complexity of your premises.
Step 2 - on-site assessment
Our qualified fire safety assessors visit your practice to carry out a thorough inspection. We evaluate risks, review your current measures, and identify areas that require improvement.
Step 3 - Get your reports
You’ll receive a detailed fire risk assessment report with clear recommendations. We also offer follow-up support to help you implement required changes and maintain compliance with fire safety regulations.
Why choose the first principle?
Choosing the right fire safety partner is crucial for any dental practice. At The First Principle, we bring expertise, clarity, and reliability to every risk assessment we conduct. Our goal is to help you protect your staff, patients, and premises with practical, compliant, and easy-to-follow safety solutions.
Expertise
Our team consists of highly trained fire safety professionals with specific experience in healthcare and dental settings.
Compliance
We stay updated with current UK fire safety laws and CQC expectations to ensure your practice meets all legal obligations.
Clarity
We translate complex regulations into clear, actionable steps that are easy for your team to follow.
Support
Beyond the report, we’re here to guide you with implementation, staff training, and future reassessments as your practice grows or changes.
Established company
When to contact The First Principle
- Opening a new dental practice
- After significant renovations
- Expanding services or staff
- Annual fire safety review due
- CQC inspection preparation
- Fire safety equipment updates
- Shared or multi-use buildings
- Concerns raised by staff or patients
Protect your practice
Don’t leave safety to chance. Ensure your dental clinic meets all fire safety regulations with a professional risk assessment tailored to your premises.
Contact The First Principle today and gain peace of mind knowing your patients, staff, and property are protected.
Your questions answered
Common questions
Is a fire risk assessment a legal requirement for dental practices?
Yes, all dental practices are legally required to carry out and regularly review a fire safety risk assessment under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
How often should a fire risk assessment be updated?
At least annually or whenever there are significant changes in the premises, procedures, or staff that could impact fire safety.
Who can carry out a fire risk assessment?
A competent person with the necessary training, experience, and understanding of fire safety standards — like the consultants at The First Principle.
What does a fire risk assessment for a dental practice involve?
It includes identifying fire hazards, evaluating risks, reviewing safety procedures, escape routes, and ensuring fire-fighting equipment and staff training are in place.
Do I need to train my staff in fire safety?
Yes, fire safety training, including fire drills and evacuation procedures, is a crucial part of compliance.
Will you provide documentation for CQC or inspections?
Absolutely. Our fire risk assessment includes full documentation suitable for CQC inspections and regulatory audits.
