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Fire Risk Assessments for Pubs: Fire Assessments, Regulations & Safety Quote for Pubs

Protecting your customers, staff, and licensed premises requires specialized fire risk assessment expertise tailored to the unique challenges of pub and hospitality environments. At JTA Fire, Jonathan Tedd and our expert team deliver comprehensive, compliant fire risk assessments specifically designed for pubs, public houses, bars, and licensed premises throughout the UK. 

With over 20 years of specialized experience in hospitality fire safety, we understand that pubs present distinct fire risks requiring expert assessment. Commercial kitchens with heavy grease buildup, high occupancy levels with alcohol consumption, smoking areas, extensive electrical systems, and complex escape route challenges demand specialist knowledge. Our fire risk assessments ensure full compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 while providing practical, implementable recommendations that protect your pub, customers, and business.

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Do Pubs Need a Fire Risk Assessment? Legal Requirements Explained

Yes, absolutely. Fire risk assessments are a mandatory legal requirement for all pubs, public houses, bars, and licensed premises in the UK. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (England and Wales), the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005, and the Fire and Rescue Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006, the responsible person for any pub or licensed premises must ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is in place, documented, and regularly reviewed. 

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The Responsible Person for pub premises is typically: 

  • The pub landlord or tenant with operational control of the premises 

  • The pub owner or freeholder for tied houses and brewery-owned premises 

  • The pub manager with day-to-day responsibility for fire safety 

  • The designated premises supervisor (DPS) under licensing legislation 

  • The employer if the pub operates as a business employing staff 

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This legal duty cannot be avoided or delegated away, though the responsible person can appoint competent persons to assist with fire safety management. Failure to maintain current, comprehensive fire risk assessments constitutes a criminal offense, exposing responsible persons to enforcement action, unlimited fines, prohibition orders preventing use of premises, and potential prosecution including imprisonment for serious breaches. 

Why Do We Need a Risk Assessment in Every Pub?

Fire risk assessment is essential for every pub because of the unique combination of hazards present in licensed hospitality premises: 

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Legal Compliance & Duty of Care 

Fire risk assessment is not optional – it's a legal requirement under fire safety legislation. As a responsible person for pub premises, you have both a statutory duty under the Fire Safety Order and a common law duty of care to customers and staff. Pubs that serve the public have heightened responsibility to ensure visitor safety, and failure to maintain adequate fire safety measures can result in tragic consequences, criminal prosecution, and devastating civil liability. 

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High Fire Risk Environment 

Pubs present significantly elevated fire risks compared to many other commercial premises: 

  • Commercial kitchens with open flames, deep fat fryers, and heavy grease accumulation in extraction systems 

  • High-density electrical systems powering refrigeration, cooking equipment, entertainment systems, and lighting 

  • Smoking-related fire risks including designated smoking areas and cigarette disposal 

  • Combustible materials including stock, furniture, soft furnishings, and decorative materials 

  • Storage of flammable substances including cleaning chemicals, LPG for outdoor heaters, and cellar stock 

  • Older building construction in traditional pubs with limited fire resistance and complex layouts 

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Vulnerable Occupants & High Occupancy 

Pubs serve members of the public who may be particularly vulnerable during fire emergencies: 

  • Customers unfamiliar with the premises and escape routes 

  • Individuals whose judgment and mobility may be impaired by alcohol consumption 

  • Elderly customers, children, and individuals with disabilities 

  • High occupancy during peak trading periods creating evacuation challenges 

  • Crowded conditions potentially blocking escape routes 

  • Noise levels from music and entertainment potentially masking fire alarm signals 

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Licensing & Insurance Requirements 

Current fire risk assessment is essential for maintaining your pub's operations: 

  • Licensing authorities consider fire safety as part of premises license applications and reviews 

  • Fire safety deficiencies can result in license conditions, restrictions, or revocation 

  • Pub insurance policies invariably require current, professionally conducted fire risk assessments 

  • Inadequate fire safety can invalidate insurance coverage entirely, leaving you personally liable for massive losses 

  • Demonstrating robust fire safety management may reduce insurance premiums and improve policy terms 

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Business Protection & Continuity 

Fire incidents devastate pub businesses. Many pubs never reopen following serious fires due to the combination of physical damage, business interruption, loss of reputation, and financial impact. Professional fire risk assessment dramatically reduces this risk, protecting your livelihood, staff employment, and community amenity that your pub provides. 

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Unique Fire Hazards in Pub & Licensed Premises Environments 

Pubs and public houses present a complex combination of fire risks requiring specialist assessment expertise. Jonathan Tedd's experience in hospitality fire safety ensures every pub-specific hazard is identified and properly managed: 

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Commercial Kitchen Operations 

Pub kitchens represent the highest fire risk area requiring intensive assessment and control measures: 

  • Deep fat fryers and commercial cooking equipment generating high heat and open flames 

  • Grease accumulation in extraction systems, ducting, canopies, and filters 

  • Cooking oil storage and handling presenting both fire and burn risks 

  • Grills, ovens, hobs, and salamanders operating at extreme temperatures 

  • Pressurized cooking equipment and specialist catering appliances 

  • Kitchen waste and grease-soaked materials requiring proper disposal 

  • Staff working under pressure during busy service periods potentially compromising safety procedures 

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Smoking Areas & Cigarette Management 

Smoking-related fire risks require careful assessment and management: 

  • Designated outdoor smoking areas and shelters with combustible construction 

  • Smoking shelters positioned near building openings or combustible materials 

  • Provision and maintenance of cigarette disposal bins with sand or water 

  • Patio heaters and outdoor heating systems using LPG or electrical power 

  • Waste bins in smoking areas requiring regular emptying and fire-resistant construction 

  • Customer behavior including improper cigarette disposal or smoking near prohibited areas 

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Electrical Systems & Equipment 

Pubs operate extensive electrical systems presenting multiple ignition sources: 

  • Commercial refrigeration systems running continuously with high power consumption 

  • Glass washing and dishwashing equipment generating heat 

  • Entertainment systems including sound equipment, televisions, projectors, and gaming machines 

  • Extensive lighting systems including decorative, ambient, and emergency lighting 

  • Cellar cooling systems and beer line chillers 

  • Portable electrical equipment requiring regular PAT testing 

  • Aging electrical installations in older pub buildings 

  • Extension leads and distribution boards potentially overloaded during events 

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Heating Systems 

  • Central heating systems, radiators, and boilers 

  • Open fireplaces in traditional pubs requiring proper maintenance and fire guards 

  • Log burners and wood-burning stoves with flue systems 

  • Portable heaters used in outdoor areas or additional spaces 

  • Patio heaters and outdoor heating for beer gardens 

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Combustible Materials & Stock 

  • Large quantities of alcohol stock including spirits with high flammability 

  • Cardboard packaging, delivery materials, and recycling storage 

  • Furniture, upholstery, curtains, and soft furnishings throughout customer areas 

  • Decorative materials, wood paneling, and traditional pub fittings 

  • Food stock, dry goods storage, and packaging materials 

  • Cleaning materials, chemicals, and flammable substances 

  • Waste materials including general refuse, recycling, and used cooking oil 

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Complex Building Layouts & Escape Routes 

  • Multi-level premises with cellars, ground floors, and upper floors 

  • Dead-end corridors and complex circulation routes 

  • Multiple interconnected rooms and drinking areas 

  • Limited number of exit routes in traditional pub buildings 

  • Staff accommodation or residential areas above pub premises 

  • Beer gardens and outdoor areas requiring designated escape routes 

  • Storage areas, plant rooms, and service spaces creating compartmentation challenges 

Jonathan Tedd's 5-Step Fire Risk Assessment Process for Pubs

Our systematic methodology ensures every aspect of your pub's fire safety is thoroughly evaluated, documented, and optimised:

Step 1: Identify Fire Hazards 

Comprehensive identification of all potential sources of ignition, fuel, and oxygen throughout your pub premises: 

Sources of Ignition: 

  • Kitchen cooking equipment – deep fat fryers, grills, ovens, hobs, salamanders 

  • Electrical equipment throughout the premises requiring PAT testing 

  • Heating systems, radiators, boilers, and open fires 

  • Lighting systems including decorative and entertainment lighting 

  • Smoking-related ignition sources and cigarette disposal 

  • Open flames including candles, tea lights, and decorative features 

  • LPG systems for outdoor heaters and catering equipment 

Sources of Fuel: 

  • Alcohol stock including spirits with high flammability 

  • Furniture, upholstery, curtains, and soft furnishings 

  • Building materials, timber structures, and decorative wood paneling 

  • Cooking oils, fats, and grease accumulation in kitchen areas 

  • Packaging materials, cardboard, and delivery waste 

  • Cleaning materials and flammable chemicals 

  • Food stock, dry goods, and storage materials 

Sources of Oxygen: 

  • Natural ventilation through windows, doors, and openings 

  • Mechanical ventilation and air conditioning systems 

  • Kitchen extraction systems and fresh air supply 

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Step 2: Identify People at Risk 

Assessment of all individuals who could be affected by fire in your pub premises: 

  • Customers and members of the public visiting the premises 

  • Individuals whose judgment and mobility may be impaired by alcohol consumption 

  • Pub staff including bar staff, kitchen staff, managers, and cleaners 

  • Temporary staff, casual workers, and agency personnel 

  • Contractors, delivery personnel, and maintenance workers 

  • Entertainment performers, DJs, and event staff 

  • Children accompanying parents or family groups 

  • Elderly customers and individuals with disabilities or mobility impairments 

  • People unfamiliar with the premises and escape routes 

  • Staff or residents in any accommodation above the pub 

  • People working alone during opening or closing procedures 

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Step 3: Evaluate & Reduce Risks 

Based on identified hazards and people at risk, we provide detailed recommendations to eliminate or minimize fire risks: 

Fire Detection and Warning Systems: 

  • Comprehensive automatic fire detection system (L2 or L1 category) throughout premises 

  • Manual call points positioned near all exit routes 

  • Alarm systems audible above ambient noise levels including music and conversation 

  • Heat detectors in kitchen areas where smoke alarms would cause false activations 

  • Weekly alarm testing and six-monthly professional servicing 

  • Visual alarm devices where appropriate for customers with hearing impairments 

Firefighting Equipment: 

  • Appropriate fire extinguishers throughout premises (water, COâ‚‚, wet chemical for kitchens) 

  • Fire blankets in kitchen areas near cooking equipment 

  • Annual servicing and maintenance of all firefighting equipment 

  • Staff training in correct selection and use of extinguishers 

  • Consideration of automatic suppression systems for kitchen areas in high-risk premises 

Escape Routes & Emergency Lighting: 

  • Clear, unobstructed escape routes from all areas of the pub 

  • Adequate numbers of fire exits based on occupancy capacity 

  • Final exit doors easily openable from inside (panic hardware, push bars) 

  • Clear, visible fire exit signage throughout the premises 

  • Properly specified and maintained emergency lighting system 

  • Monthly emergency lighting tests and three-yearly professional servicing 

  • Designated assembly points at safe distances from the building 

Fire Safety Management: 

  • Professional deep cleaning of kitchen extraction systems (quarterly minimum for busy kitchens) 

  • Daily cleaning of kitchen surfaces and equipment to prevent grease buildup 

  • Safe storage and handling procedures for cooking oils and fats 

  • Regular waste removal preventing accumulation of combustible materials 

  • Cigarette disposal facilities in smoking areas with regular emptying 

  • Regular PAT testing of electrical equipment (annually or as recommended) 

  • Fixed electrical installation testing every 5 years (or 3 years for high-risk environments) 

  • Fire door maintenance ensuring self-closing mechanisms, seals, and integrity 

  • Prohibition of propping open fire doors (magnetic hold-open devices acceptable if linked to alarm) 

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Step 4: Record & Train 

Comprehensive documentation and staff preparation: 

Written Fire Risk Assessment: 

  • Complete documentation of all hazards, people at risk, and existing control measures 

  • Prioritized action plan with timescales for implementation 

  • Clear allocation of responsibilities for fire safety actions 

  • Floor plans showing escape routes, assembly points, and fire safety equipment 

  • Assessment kept accessible and available for inspection by licensing authorities and fire service 

Note: If your pub employs five or more people (including part-time staff, kitchen staff, cleaners, and casual workers), a written record of your fire risk assessment is legally mandatory. Even with fewer employees, written documentation is essential best practice. 

Emergency Procedures: 

  • Written evacuation plan documented and displayed for staff 

  • Clear procedures for raising the alarm and calling emergency services 

  • Staff responsibilities during evacuation including customer assistance 

  • Designated fire marshals or responsible persons for different shifts 

  • Assembly point procedures and roll-call systems 

  • Personal emergency evacuation plans for staff members requiring assistance 

Staff Training Requirements: 

  • Fire safety induction for all new staff members 

  • Training in evacuation procedures and individual responsibilities 

  • Instruction in correct use of firefighting equipment 

  • Kitchen staff training in specific risks and fire prevention measures 

  • Annual refresher training for all staff 

  • Training records documented and maintained 

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Step 5: Review Regularly 

Ongoing review and maintenance of fire risk assessment: 

  • Annual review as absolute minimum requirement 

  • More frequent review recommended for busy pubs with complex operations 

  • Immediate reassessment following renovations, refurbishment, or building alterations 

  • Review after changes to use, capacity, or operating hours 

  • Post-incident review following any fire-related event or near-miss 

  • Updates reflecting legislative changes or licensing authority requirements 

  • Review triggered by insurance recommendations or fire authority inspections 

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Benefits of Professional Fire Risk Assessment for Pubs

Investing in professional fire risk assessment from JTA Fire delivers substantial advantages for your pub business: 

✓ Protection of Customers, Staff & Business 

Expert assessment ensures comprehensive identification of fire risks specific to pub environments, implementing robust measures to protect customers, staff, and your business operations. Safeguard the people who trust your establishment for safe, enjoyable hospitality. 

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✓ Full Legal Compliance & Licensing Security 

Satisfy legal obligations under fire safety legislation and licensing requirements. Avoid enforcement action, prohibition orders, unlimited fines, potential prosecution, and threats to your premises license. Professional assessment provides robust evidence of compliance if questioned by fire authorities, licensing committees, or enforcement agencies. 

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✓ Hospitality Fire Safety Expertise 

Jonathan Tedd's 20 years of experience in pub and hospitality fire safety ensures your assessment accounts for industry-specific hazards that generic assessors might miss: commercial kitchen risks, grease management, smoking areas, high occupancy with alcohol consumption, and complex building layouts. Benefit from specialist knowledge rather than one-size-fits-all approaches. 

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✓ Insurance Compliance & Reduced Premiums 

Pub insurance policies invariably require current, professionally conducted fire risk assessments. Demonstrating robust fire safety management may reduce premiums and improve policy terms. Inadequate fire safety can invalidate insurance entirely, leaving you personally liable for potentially catastrophic losses, compensation claims, and rebuilding costs.

 

✓ Business Continuity & Reputation Protection 

Fire incidents cause devastating business interruption, with many pubs never reopening following serious fires. Professional fire risk assessment minimizes this risk, protecting your livelihood, staff employment, community amenity, and business reputation. Demonstrate commitment to customer and staff safety, enhancing your pub's reputation and customer confidence. 

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✓ Practical, Cost-Effective Recommendations 

We understand pubs operate under tight margins and competitive pressures. Our recommendations are proportionate, practical, and implementable within hospitality business constraints. We clearly prioritize actions, provide realistic timescales, and offer guidance on cost-effective solutions that deliver genuine fire safety improvements without unnecessary expenditure.

 

✓ Ongoing Expert Support 

Our service extends beyond assessment delivery. Jonathan Tedd and the JTA Fire team provide continued support, answering questions, clarifying requirements, and assisting with implementation of recommendations. We're here to help your pub maintain and improve fire safety standards year-round. 

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Critical Fire Safety Measures for Pubs & Public Houses

Based on extensive experience assessing pubs throughout the UK, these are the essential fire safety measures every public house should implement: 

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Kitchen & Cooking Area Fire Safety 

  • Professional deep cleaning of extraction systems, ducting, and canopies (quarterly minimum for busy kitchens, monthly for very high-volume operations) 

  • Daily cleaning of cooking surfaces, grills, and fryers to prevent grease buildup 

  • Regular filter cleaning and replacement according to manufacturer specifications 

  • Safe storage and handling of cooking oils and fats in designated containers 

  • Class F (wet chemical) fire extinguishers positioned within easy reach of cooking equipment 

  • Fire blankets accessible near all cooking areas 

  • Staff trained never to leave cooking equipment unattended during operation 

  • Regular servicing of cooking equipment according to manufacturer recommendations 

  • Proper disposal of grease-soaked materials in sealed metal containers 

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Smoking Areas & Cigarette Management 

  • Dedicated cigarette disposal bins with sand or water in all smoking areas 

  • Regular emptying of cigarette bins (minimum daily, more frequently during busy periods) 

  • Smoking shelters positioned away from building openings and combustible materials 

  • Non-combustible or fire-resistant construction for smoking shelters 

  • Safe installation and maintenance of patio heaters with appropriate clearances 

  • LPG cylinder storage in well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources 

  • Staff vigilance for unsafe smoking behavior and improper cigarette disposal 

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Electrical Safety & Equipment Management 

  • Annual PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) for all electrical equipment 

  • Fixed electrical installation testing every 5 years (or 3 years for high-risk hospitality environments) 

  • Prohibition of overloaded sockets and daisy-chained extension leads 

  • Regular inspection of power cables for damage, wear, or deterioration 

  • Immediate repair or replacement of faulty electrical equipment 

  • Proper ventilation around refrigeration and heat-generating equipment 

  • Designated switching-off procedures at close of business 

  • Emergency power isolation clearly identified and accessible 

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Escape Routes, Signage & Emergency Lighting 

  • All fire exit routes kept clear, unobstructed, and accessible at all times 

  • Final exit doors easily openable from inside without keys (panic hardware, push bars) 

  • Fire exit doors never locked, bolted, or obstructed during trading hours 

  • Clearly visible, illuminated fire exit signage throughout premises 

  • Emergency lighting systems tested monthly (function test) and annually (duration test) 

  • Three-yearly professional servicing and certification of emergency lighting 

  • Floor surfaces maintained in good condition preventing trip hazards during evacuation 

  • Furniture layout ensuring clear circulation routes to exits 

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Fire Detection, Alarms & Equipment 

  • Comprehensive automatic fire detection system throughout all areas 

  • Weekly fire alarm testing (brief activation to confirm operation) 

  • Six-monthly professional servicing by competent fire alarm engineer 

  • Annual certification and compliance documentation 

  • Fire extinguishers serviced annually and immediately after any use 

  • Fire doors maintained in good condition with functioning self-closing mechanisms 

  • Six-monthly fire door inspection checking seals, gaps, and closers 

  • Fire safety logbook maintained recording all testing, servicing, and maintenance 

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Who Can Provide a Fire Risk Assessment? 

Legally, fire risk assessments must be conducted by a 'competent person' – someone with sufficient training, experience, knowledge, and qualifications to properly assess fire safety risks and recommend appropriate control measures. 

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Professional Fire Risk Assessors 

The most reliable and comprehensive approach is engaging professional fire risk assessors like Jonathan Tedd and the JTA Fire team who bring: 

  • Formal qualifications in fire safety and fire risk assessment 

  • Extensive practical experience across diverse premises types including pubs and hospitality venues 

  • Current knowledge of fire safety legislation, guidance, and best practices 

  • Independent, objective evaluation free from organizational pressures or conflicts of interest 

  • Professional indemnity insurance protecting clients against assessment errors 

  • Credibility with fire authorities, licensing committees, insurers, and enforcement agencies 

  • Ability to identify risks that inexperienced assessors might miss 

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Self-Assessment by Responsible Person 

The responsible person (pub landlord, manager, or owner) can theoretically conduct their own fire risk assessment if they possess adequate competence. However, this approach carries significant limitations and risks: 

  • Most pub operators lack the specialist fire safety knowledge required for comprehensive assessment 

  • Familiarity with premises can lead to overlooking obvious risks or accepting unsafe practices as normal 

  • Lack of objectivity and independence potentially compromising assessment quality 

  • Insurance companies may not accept self-conducted assessments as adequate compliance 

  • Fire authorities and licensing bodies typically expect professional assessment for licensed premises 

  • Personal liability remains if inadequate assessment fails to identify critical risks 

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Why Professional Assessment Is Essential for Pubs 

Pubs present complex fire risks requiring specialist assessment expertise. The combination of commercial kitchens, high public occupancy, alcohol service, smoking areas, and often older building construction creates hazards that generic assessors or self-assessment cannot adequately address. Professional fire risk assessment from specialists like JTA Fire ensures: 

  • Comprehensive identification of all pub-specific fire risks 

  • Practical, implementable recommendations suited to hospitality operations 

  • Legal compliance and protection from enforcement action 

  • Insurance acceptance and potential premium reductions 

  • Licensing security and regulatory confidence 

  • Peace of mind that your pub, customers, and staff are properly protected 

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Fire Risk Assessment Locations close to JTA Fire (we serve all across the UK), we are keen on the below regions:​

Fire Risk Assessment Bedfordshire: 1 Howard Way, Biddenham, Bedford, MK40 4XL

Fire Risk Assessment in Buckinghamshire

Fire Risk Assessment in Milton Keynes

Fire Risk Assessment in Luton

Fire Risk Assessment in Wellingborough

Fire Risk Assessment in Northampton

Fire Risk Assessment in Aylesbury
Fire Risk Assessment in High Wycombe
Fire Risk Assessment in Amersham
Fire Risk Assessment in Chesham

Fire Risk Assessment in Marlow
Fire Risk Assessment in Princes Risborough​​

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Fire Risk Assessment Consultancy for Pubs You Can Trust: This is JTA Fire.

What Happens During Your Pub Fire Risk Assessment Consultation?

  1. Site Visit & Inspection
    Our consultant visits your premises to walk every relevant area and assess fire risks. 

  2. Risk Identification
    We identify hazards, ignition sources, escape routes and potential risk factors. 

  3. Report with Recommendations
    You’ll receive a concise, compliant report outlining findings and clear, practical steps to reduce risk and meet legal duties. 

  4. Follow-Up Support
    We explain priorities and help you plan improvements that protect people and strengthen safety.

Frequently Asked Questions: Fire Risk Assessment for Pubs

Is There Any Fire Risk Assessment Templates for Pubs or Free Resources?

While free fire risk assessment templates are available from various sources including HSE, government websites, and fire safety organisations, pub operators should understand their significant limitations before relying on them: 

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Available Template Resources

  • HSE Fire Risk Assessment Templates – Generic templates applicable to various premises types 

  • GOV.UK Fire Safety Guidance – General fire safety information and basic checklists 

  • Local Fire & Rescue Service Resources – Area-specific guidance and simple templates 

  • Industry Association Templates – Basic frameworks for hospitality premises 

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Critical Limitations of Templates 

  • Template-based fire risk assessments present serious limitations that pub operators must understand: 

  • Generic templates cannot account for your pub's unique characteristics, building construction, layout, equipment, or specific operational risks 

  • Templates encourage superficial, checkbox-style assessment that often misses critical hazards requiring expert identification 

  • Free templates rarely address pub-specific risks adequately including commercial kitchen hazards, grease management, smoking areas, or high occupancy with alcohol service 

  • Completing templates requires significant fire safety competence that most pub operators do not possess 

  • Template-based assessments may not be accepted by insurers as demonstrating adequate compliance 

  • Fire authorities and licensing bodies often question the adequacy of self-completed template assessments 

  • Templates provide no professional indemnity or protection if assessment proves inadequate 

  • Using templates creates false confidence in fire safety while potentially leaving serious hazards unidentified 

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Legal & Insurance Risks of Template-Based Assessment 

The legal requirement is for a 'suitable and sufficient' fire risk assessment conducted by a competent person. Simply completing a template does not automatically satisfy this requirement. If a fire occurs and investigation reveals that a template-based assessment failed to identify obvious risks or implement appropriate controls, the responsible person faces: 

  • Criminal prosecution for failing to conduct suitable and sufficient assessment 

  • Unlimited fines and potential imprisonment for serious breaches 

  • Civil liability for injuries, deaths, or property damage resulting from inadequate fire safety 

  • Insurance claim rejection or policy invalidation due to inadequate fire safety measures 

  • Licensing consequences including conditions, restrictions, or revocation 

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Strong Recommendation: For pubs and licensed premises, professional fire risk assessment is essential rather than optional. The complex fire risks present in pub environments, combined with your duty of care to customers and staff, licensing requirements, and insurance obligations, make professional assessment a prudent, responsible investment. The modest cost of expert assessment provides comprehensive protection, legal security, and peace of mind that no free template can match. Contact Jonathan Tedd at JTA Fire for professional fire risk assessment specifically tailored to your pub's unique circumstances and requirements. 

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Why Choose JTA Fire for Pub Fire Risk Assessments? 

Jonathan Tedd: Hospitality Fire Safety Specialist 

With over 20 years of dedicated experience in hospitality fire safety, Jonathan Tedd has conducted comprehensive fire risk assessments for pubs, bars, restaurants, and licensed premises throughout the UK. His deep understanding of hospitality operations, combined with technical fire safety expertise, ensures your pub receives assessment that accounts for the unique challenges of licensed hospitality environments. 

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Specialist Understanding of Pub Environments 

We understand that pubs are not generic commercial premises. Commercial kitchens with grease management challenges, high public occupancy with alcohol consumption, smoking areas, complex escape routes in traditional buildings, and strict licensing requirements demand specialist knowledge. Our assessments reflect this understanding rather than applying generic approaches to unique hospitality environments. 

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Practical, Business-Focused Recommendations 

We recognize that pubs operate under competitive pressures and tight profit margins. Our recommendations are proportionate, practical, and achievable within hospitality business realities. We prioritize actions clearly, provide realistic timescales, and suggest cost-effective solutions that deliver genuine safety improvements without undermining your business viability. 

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Clear, Accessible Communication 

Fire safety documentation should be understandable to pub operators, managers, and staff – not just fire safety specialists. Our reports are written in straightforward language explaining what needs to be done, why it's necessary, and how to implement it effectively within your operational context. 

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Flexible Scheduling Around Trading Hours 

We understand pubs cannot simply stop trading for fire safety assessments. We work flexibly around your trading hours, conducting assessments during quieter periods, before opening, after closing, or at times that minimize disruption to your business operations. 

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Competitive Pricing for Licensed Premises 

We provide transparent, competitive pricing with detailed breakdown of costs and no hidden fees. You'll understand exactly what you're investing in and what you'll receive. We never recommend unnecessary measures or services – our recommendations are proportionate, practical, and genuinely necessary. 

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Comprehensive Fire Safety Support 

Beyond fire risk assessment, JTA Fire provides complete fire safety services for pubs including staff training, fire alarm installation and servicing, equipment supply and maintenance, and ongoing consultation – providing single-source convenience for all your pub's fire safety requirements. 

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Get Your Professional Pub Fire Risk Assessment Today 

Protect your customers, staff, and pub business with a comprehensive fire risk assessment from JTA Fire's expert team led by Jonathan Tedd. Ensure full legal compliance, satisfy licensing requirements, maintain insurance coverage, and gain the peace of mind that comes from knowing your pub is comprehensively protected. 

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  • Our straightforward process for pubs: 

  • Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation and transparent quote 

  • We'll schedule assessment at a time convenient for your pub operations 

  • Jonathan Tedd or a qualified member of our team conducts thorough on-site evaluation 

  • Receive comprehensive written report with clear, prioritized recommendations within 5-7 working days 

  • We provide ongoing support and guidance as you implement our recommendations 

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BOOK YOUR FREE PUB FIRE SAFETY CONSULTATION NOW 

Call JTA Fire today or complete our online enquiry form to speak with Jonathan Tedd about protecting your pub with expert fire risk assessment services. 

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More Frequently Asked Questions: Pub Fire Risk Assessments 

Do pubs need a fire risk assessment? 

Yes, absolutely and without exception. Fire risk assessments are a mandatory legal requirement for all pubs, public houses, bars, and licensed premises in the UK. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (England and Wales), Fire (Scotland) Act 2005, and Fire and Rescue Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 require the responsible person for any pub premises to ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is completed, documented (if employing five or more people), and regularly reviewed. This applies to all pubs regardless of size, type of operation, ownership structure, or building age. There are no exemptions for small pubs, family-run establishments, or traditional venues. The responsible person (typically pub landlord, manager, owner, or designated premises supervisor) bears legal accountability for ensuring compliance. Failure to maintain current, comprehensive fire risk assessment constitutes a criminal offense exposing responsible persons to unlimited fines, prohibition orders preventing use of premises, potential imprisonment, licensing consequences, insurance invalidation, and massive civil liability if fire causes injury or death. 

​

Why do we need a risk assessment in every pub? 

Fire risk assessment is essential for every pub because of the unique combination of elevated fire risks present in licensed hospitality premises. Pubs combine commercial kitchen operations with heavy grease accumulation presenting extreme fire hazards, high occupancy levels with members of the public whose judgment may be impaired by alcohol consumption, smoking-related fire risks from cigarettes and outdoor heating, extensive electrical systems powering refrigeration and entertainment equipment, combustible materials including stock and furnishings, and often older building construction with limited fire resistance and complex escape routes. Additionally, pubs serve vulnerable occupants including children, elderly customers, individuals with disabilities, and people unfamiliar with the premises – all requiring special consideration during evacuation. The responsible person has both statutory duty under fire safety legislation and common law duty of care to customers and staff. Pubs also require current fire risk assessment for licensing compliance (licensing authorities consider fire safety in premises license decisions), insurance validity (all pub insurance policies require professional assessment), and business protection (fire incidents devastate pub businesses with many never reopening). Professional fire risk assessment is not optional – it's essential legal compliance, duty of care fulfillment, licensing requirement, insurance necessity, and fundamental business protection for every pub operation. 

​

Who can provide a fire risk assessment? 

Fire risk assessments must be conducted by a 'competent person' – someone with sufficient training, experience, knowledge, and qualifications to properly assess fire safety risks and recommend appropriate control measures. Professional fire risk assessors like Jonathan Tedd and JTA Fire represent the most reliable approach, bringing formal fire safety qualifications, extensive practical experience in hospitality premises, current legislative knowledge, independent objective evaluation, professional indemnity insurance, and credibility with authorities and insurers. The responsible person (pub landlord/manager/owner) can theoretically conduct their own assessment if adequately competent, but this approach carries significant limitations: most pub operators lack specialist fire safety knowledge required, familiarity with premises often leads to overlooking obvious risks, lack of objectivity potentially compromises assessment quality, insurers may not accept self-conducted assessments, licensing bodies typically expect professional assessment for licensed premises, and personal liability remains if inadequate assessment fails to identify critical risks. For pubs specifically, the complex fire risks (commercial kitchens, high occupancy, alcohol service, smoking areas, older buildings) make professional assessment essential rather than optional. Generic fire safety consultants without hospitality expertise may miss pub-specific hazards, so specialist assessors with proven experience in licensed premises provide optimal protection. JTA Fire's 20 years of hospitality fire safety experience ensures comprehensive identification of pub-specific risks with practical, implementable recommendations suited to licensed premises operations. 

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How often should pub fire risk assessments be reviewed? 

Pub fire risk assessments should be reviewed annually as an absolute minimum requirement. However, several circumstances trigger immediate reassessment: any renovations, refurbishment, or building alterations; changes to kitchen equipment or cooking operations; modifications to pub layout, capacity, or use of spaces; installation of new equipment or systems; changes to operating hours or trading patterns; following any fire incident, near-miss, or false alarm investigation; after enforcement action, licensing authority recommendations, or insurance requirements; when fire safety legislation or guidance changes; and if new vulnerable occupants require consideration (e.g., introduction of family dining areas). Many licensing authorities and insurers expect more frequent professional review for busy pubs with complex operations – typically every 1-2 years rather than waiting the full annual cycle. High-risk pubs (extensive kitchens, large capacity, older buildings, accommodation above) benefit from professional reassessment every 12-18 months. Between professional assessments, pub management should conduct ongoing monitoring of fire safety measures, maintain fire safety logbooks documenting all testing and maintenance, address any identified deficiencies immediately, and remain vigilant for changes affecting fire risk. The responsible person must actively review and update the assessment rather than assuming it remains valid indefinitely – outdated assessments provide no legal protection and may expose the pub to serious liability if circumstances have changed. 

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What are the main fire risks in pubs? 

The main fire risks in pub premises include: Commercial kitchens representing the highest risk with deep fat fryers, grills, open flames, cooking oil, and grease accumulation in extraction systems and ducting; Electrical systems including refrigeration, glass washers, entertainment equipment, and lighting generating heat and potential ignition sources; Smoking-related risks from cigarette disposal, outdoor smoking shelters, and patio heaters using LPG; Combustible materials including alcohol stock (particularly spirits), furniture, soft furnishings, decorative materials, and packaging; Heating systems including boilers, radiators, open fires in traditional pubs, and portable heaters; High occupancy creating evacuation challenges, particularly with customers whose mobility and judgment may be impaired by alcohol; Complex building layouts in older pubs with limited escape routes, dead-end corridors, and multi-level arrangements; Waste accumulation including general refuse, cardboard packaging, and used cooking oil; Human factors including staff working under pressure during busy periods, customer behavior, and equipment left operating unattended; and Building construction in traditional pubs often featuring limited fire resistance, timber structures, and lack of adequate compartmentation. Each pub presents unique combination of these risks requiring tailored assessment and control measures specific to the premises, operations, and occupancy patterns. 

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What fire safety equipment do pubs need? 

Pubs require comprehensive fire safety equipment appropriate to the premises size, layout, and specific risks: Automatic fire detection system (L2 or L1 category) providing comprehensive coverage throughout all areas including customer spaces, kitchens (heat detectors), cellars, storage areas, and any accommodation; Manual call points positioned near all exit routes enabling manual alarm activation; Fire alarm system audible above ambient noise levels including music and conversation; Fire extinguishers strategically positioned throughout premises with appropriate types for different risks (water extinguishers for general areas, COâ‚‚ for electrical equipment, wet chemical/Class F for kitchen cooking equipment); Fire blankets in kitchen areas positioned within easy reach of cooking equipment; Emergency lighting system providing illumination of escape routes if normal lighting fails (monthly function tests, annual duration tests, three-yearly professional servicing); Clear, illuminated fire exit signage throughout premises directing to nearest exits; Fire doors with self-closing mechanisms, intumescent seals, and appropriate fire resistance ratings; Final exit doors with panic hardware or push-bar mechanisms enabling easy opening from inside; Firefighting equipment serviced annually by competent engineers; and Fire safety logbook documenting all testing, servicing, maintenance, and staff training. Specific equipment requirements vary based on individual premises characteristics, and professional fire risk assessment determines the exact specification, quantity, and positioning of equipment needed for comprehensive protection tailored to your pub's unique circumstances. 

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Protect Your Pub Business with Expert Fire Safety 

Fire safety in pubs is not just regulatory compliance – it's fundamental protection for your customers, staff, business, livelihood, and the community amenity your pub provides. The unique combination of commercial kitchen hazards, high public occupancy, alcohol service, smoking areas, and often traditional building construction creates complex fire risks demanding specialist expertise rather than generic approaches or template-based assessment. 

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Jonathan Tedd and the JTA Fire team bring two decades of specialized experience in pub and hospitality fire safety, comprehensive understanding of licensed premises operations and regulations, and unwavering commitment to protecting pub businesses and communities. Our professional fire risk assessments deliver genuine value through expert identification of pub-specific risks, practical recommendations implementable within hospitality business constraints, clear documentation satisfying legal and licensing requirements, and ongoing support ensuring sustained compliance and protection. 

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Contact JTA Fire today for your free consultation and quote. Invest in professional fire risk assessment and gain the confidence that comes from knowing your pub, customers, staff, and business are comprehensively protected by hospitality fire safety specialists.

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Fire Risk Assessment Locations close to JTA Fire (we serve all across the UK), we are keen on the below regions:​

Fire Risk Assessment Bedfordshire: 1 Howard Way, Biddenham, Bedford, MK40 4XL

Fire Risk Assessment in Buckinghamshire

Fire Risk Assessment in Milton Keynes

Fire Risk Assessment in Luton

Fire Risk Assessment in Wellingborough

Fire Risk Assessment in Northampton

Fire Risk Assessment in Aylesbury
Fire Risk Assessment in High Wycombe
Fire Risk Assessment in Amersham
Fire Risk Assessment in Chesham

Fire Risk Assessment in Marlow
Fire Risk Assessment in Princes Risborough​​

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