Eridge Village Hall - Fire Risk Assessment

Date of Assessment: [Insert Date]
Assessor: [Name, Position]
Review Date: [Insert Review Date]

1. Responsible Person(s) & Competency

Responsible Person(s):

  • The Management Committee/Trustees of Eridge Village Hall

All responsible persons will receive an annual briefing and an induction for new trustees, ensuring fire safety knowledge is maintained.

2. Fire Safety Policy & Objectives

The fire safety policy for Eridge Village Hall aims to:

  • Prevent fire by maintaining a safe environment.

  • Protect all persons using the hall from fire-related risks.

  • Ensure swift and safe evacuation in case of an emergency.

  • Comply with legal fire safety obligations.

3. Fire Hazards & Control Measures

3.1 Sources of Ignition

  • Electrical appliances and wiring – all equipment is PAT tested annually.

  • Cooking equipment in the kitchen – maintained and used as per guidelines.

  • Portable heaters – prohibited unless authorised.

  • Smoking – strictly prohibited inside the hall.

  • Candles/open flames – not  allowed.

3.2 Sources of Fuel

  • Furniture and furnishings – comply with fire safety regulations.

  • Cleaning products – stored securely in a locked cupboard.

  • Paper, decorations, and waste materials – managed and disposed of properly.

3.3 Sources of Oxygen

  • Natural ventilation through doors and windows.

  • Fire doors kept closed to limit airflow in case of fire.

4. People at Risk

  • Hall Users – includes the public, groups, and hirers.

  • Staff & Volunteers – those involved in managing and maintaining the hall.

  • Vulnerable Persons – elderly, disabled persons, or young children who may need assistance during evacuation.

  • Contractors & Visitors – any external personnel working within the premises.

5. Fire Safety Measures

5.1 Fire Detection & Warning System

  • Smoke and heat alarms installed and regularly tested.

  • Manual call points for fire alarms at key exits.

  • Alarms tested weekly and recorded in the fire logbook.

5.2 Firefighting Equipment

  • Fire extinguishers (CO2, foam, and water) located strategically and checked annually.

  • Fire blankets in the kitchen.

  • Clear instructions for use provided.

5.3 Escape Routes & Emergency Exits

  • Clearly marked fire exits, kept clear at all times.

  • Emergency lighting installed and regularly tested.

  • Evacuation routes checked monthly to ensure they remain unobstructed.

5.4 Emergency Evacuation Plan

  • Fire action notices displayed at all exits.

  • Assembly point: [Specify Location]

  • Hirers briefed on evacuation procedures.

  • Drills conducted annually.

5.5 Training & Information

  • Regular fire safety briefings for the management committee.

  • Induction for new trustees includes fire safety procedures.

  • Fire safety included as a standing agenda item in committee meetings.

  • Hirers provided with fire safety guidelines and emergency procedures.

6. Specific Risks Related to Hirers & Events

  • All hirers required to declare planned activities.

  • High-risk activities (e.g., use of pyrotechnics or deep-fat fryers) require special permission and risk assessment.

  • Fire safety responsibilities outlined in hiring agreements.

7. Maintenance & Record Keeping

  • Fire alarm and emergency lighting tests logged monthly.

  • Extinguisher checks recorded annually.

  • PAT testing of electrical appliances conducted yearly.

  • Any issues reported and rectified promptly.

8. Review & Monitoring

  • Fire risk assessment reviewed annually or after significant changes.

  • Fire incidents, near misses, or concerns logged and reviewed.

  • Updates made as necessary to comply with current fire safety regulations.

Signed:
[Assessor's Name & Position]
Date: [Insert Date]