The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 remains the main fire safety law in England and Wales, but it has been strengthened by the Fire Safety Act 2021, the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, and additional duties introduced through the Building Safety Act 2022. Responsible Persons now have wider obligations relating to fire risk assessments, cooperation, information sharing and competence.

For more detailed information, as a Responsible Person, it may be worth you reading the following article: Fire Safety: Guidance for Those with Legal Duties (GOV.UK).

1. Fire Risk Assessments

Recent changes introduced through the above mentioned Building Safety Act 2022 and amendments to the Fire Safety Order have increased the responsibilities of Responsible Persons and carrying out fire risk assessments. These changes include:

• Fire risk assessments must now be formally recorded. Previously, some smaller premises could carry out a fire risk assessment without formally recording it. Responsible Persons must now record:
  • The fire risk assessment itself.
  • The identity of the Responsible Person.
  • Any fire safety arrangements in place.
  • Significant findings and actions arising from the assessment.
• In addition to this, there is greater emphasis is placed on assessor competence and duty holders are expected to cooperate, coordinate and share fire safety information more effectively.

• Withdrawal of the older BS 476 fire-testing classifications in favour of the BS EN 13501 European classification system.
• Changes relating to sprinkler provision.
• Further amendments planned for 2026 and beyond.

This is particularly relevant for designers, contractors, building owners and those involved in refurbishments. Building owners should also ensure that passive fire protection measures such as fire compartmentation remain effective, particularly following refurbishment works or changes in building use.

Following Grenfell-related reforms, owners and managers of higher-risk residential buildings face enhanced requirements around:

• Fire door compliance and inspection regimes.
• Building information for fire and rescue services.
• Resident communication.
• External wall systems and cladding.
• Record keeping and ongoing risk management.

Fire doors and compartmentation form a critical part of a building’s passive fire protection strategy. Regular inspections, maintenance records and remedial works are becoming increasingly important areas of scrutiny for Responsible Persons.

Although not yet a standalone piece of legislation, regulators and fire authorities are increasingly focusing on fires involving:

• E-bikes
• E-scooters
• Battery energy storage systems
• Mobility scooters

Many fire risk assessors are now expected to specifically consider lithium-ion battery charging and storage arrangements within fire risk assessments. Organisations should review charging locations, storage arrangements and emergency procedures to ensure these emerging risks are addressed.

Since July 2025, restrictions relating to certain PFAS/PFOA-containing foam extinguishers have required many organisations to review and replace older AFFF foam extinguishers where necessary.

1. Review and update fire risk assessments.
2. Check competence of whoever carries out fire risk assessments.
3. Ensure fire door inspections and maintenance records are current.
4. Review evacuation procedures, especially for vulnerable occupants.
5. Consider lithium-ion battery charging/storage risks.
6. Check whether any foam extinguishers are affected by PFAS/PFOA restrictions.
7. Stay aware of forthcoming Approved Document B changes and any Building Safety Regulator guidance.