Hotel Fire Risk Assessment: Fire Risk Assessment for Hotel Industry & Large Hotels

In the hotel industry, conducting a thorough fire risk assessment is not just best practice—it’s a legal obligation. A hotel fire risk assessment is a systematic evaluation of your premises to identify fire hazards, assess the risks to guests and staff, and implement effective control measures to prevent fire incidents. This process typically follows five key steps: identifying hazards, identifying people at risk, evaluating and reducing the risks, recording findings with an action plan, and regularly reviewing the assessment. By covering all areas of a hotel – from high-risk zones like kitchens to escape routes, electrical systems, and alarms – a proper fire risk assessment ensures you comply with fire safety regulations and keep everyone safe.

JTA Fire Consultancy provides professional fire risk assessment services tailored for large hotels to comply with UK fire safety law and protect people, property and reputation.

Book Your Free Consultation

Why Fire Risk Assessments are critical for hotels?

Ensure Guest and Staff Safety: hotels accommodate many people (often in unfamiliar surroundings), which means a higher duty of care. A fire risk assessment addresses how to protect sleeping guests, including those who may be vulnerable (children, elderly, disabled), ensuring there are clear alarms, exits, and evacuation plans in place.
Legal Compliance: hotels and other accommodations must have a fire risk assessment by law (under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in England and Wales). Failing to comply can lead to enforcement action, fines, or even closure. Regular assessments demonstrate that you’re meeting your legal obligations as the Responsible Person (typically the owner or manager).
Prevent Property Damage: by identifying and mitigating fire hazards (from faulty wiring to unattended heat sources), you reduce the likelihood of fires starting. This protection safeguards your property, business continuity, and reputation. Prevention is always cheaper and safer than dealing with a fire aftermath.
Insurance and Liability: many insurers require evidence of a current fire risk assessment for hotels. In the event of a fire, having a documented assessment and action plan can be crucial for insurance claims and limiting liability, showing that you took appropriate precautions.

(Ensure your hotel meets all fire safety requirements. Contact us today to book a professional Hotel Fire Risk Assessment consultation.)

Book Your Free Consultation

Key Components of a Hotel Fire Risk Assessment

A comprehensive hotel fire risk assessment typically includes the following key components or steps:

Identify Fire Hazards
Inspect the premises for anything that could start a fire (sources of ignition) and things that could burn (fuel sources). Common ignition sources in hotels include cooking equipment in kitchens, faulty electrical wiring or appliances, smoking materials, and heating devices. Fuel sources can be furniture, curtains, paper, cleaning chemicals, or clutter. Even an oxygen source (usually the air, but also oxidizing chemicals) is considered. By pinpointing these hazards, you can take steps to control or isolate them (for example, proper storage of flammable materials and regular electrical inspections).

Identify People at Risk
Determine who would be at risk if a fire breaks out. This includes everyone on the premises: guests (especially those asleep at night), staff, contractors, and visitors. Pay special attention to individuals who might need assistance in an emergency, such as children, the elderly, people with disabilities, or anyone not familiar with the building’s layout. In a hotel, guests are often unaware of the emergency exits and procedures, so the assessment must account for safely alerting and evacuating all occupants.

Evaluate, Reduce, and Remove Risks
Consider the likelihood of a fire starting at each identified hazard, and the potential consequences for people. Then take action to eliminate or minimize those risks. This could mean implementing control measures such as installing fire alarms and smoke detectors in all appropriate areas, ensuring there are sufficient fire extinguishers and sprinkler systems, using fire-resistant materials, and keeping exit routes clear of obstructions. It also involves reducing sources of fuel and ignition: for example, enforcing no-smoking areas or safe smoking policies, maintaining electrical equipment (PAT testing appliances), and storing flammable liquids securely. By the end of this step, you should have mitigated risks as far as reasonably possible – for instance, by removing unnecessary combustibles and adding protective features like fire doors and emergency lighting.

Record, Plan, and Inform
Document all significant findings from the assessment and the actions taken (or needed) to address them. In the UK, if you have five or more employees (or provide sleeping accommodation to guests), you are required to keep a written record of your fire risk assessment. The record should detail the hazards found, the measures in place to reduce risk, and any further improvements needed. Plan for emergencies by creating a clear fire evacuation plan outlining escape routes and assembly points. Make sure this plan is communicated to staff and available to guests (for example, via room notices or briefing information). Inform and train your staff: everyone should know what to do in case of fire. This includes conducting regular fire drills (at various times, not just convenient moments) and ensuring staff can assist in evacuation and use basic fire-fighting equipment if safe to do so. Proper signage (fire action notices, exit signs) and information for guests (like what the alarm sounds like, evacuation instructions) are also critical parts of this step.

Review and Update Regularly
A fire risk assessment is not a one-time task. Schedule regular reviews – at least annually – to reassess risks and check that all fire safety measures are up to date and effective. You must also review the assessment whenever significant changes occur in the hotel, such as after renovations, layout changes, an increase in guest capacity, or the introduction of new equipment or services (e.g., adding a spa or kitchen). These changes can introduce new hazards or alter existing ones. Regular reviews ensure continuous compliance and safety. If any issues are found (for example, an alarm system fault or a blocked fire exit), update your plans and act immediately to fix them. Keeping an up-to-date assessment and log of improvements will help demonstrate your proactive approach to fire safety.

(Protect your guests, staff, and property with an expert-led fire risk assessment. Book a Hotel Fire Risk Assessment now and stay compliant and safe.)

Book Your Free Consultation

Areas to check in a hotel fire risk assessment

While a fire risk assessment covers the entire premises, there are particular high-risk areas and systems in hotels that demand special attention:

High-Risk Zones

Certain areas of a hotel are more prone to fire hazards. Kitchens are one of the top high-risk zones due to open flames, hot equipment, and cooking oils. Ensure kitchen appliances are maintained and staff practice safe cooking procedures (e.g., never leaving pans unattended, cleaning grease buildup). Other high-risk areas include laundry rooms (lint build-up in dryers can ignite), boiler/furnace rooms, bars or restaurants (where candles or alcohol might be present), storage rooms with lots of combustible stock, and designated smoking areas. Even hotel basements or back-of-house areas can accumulate flammable materials. These zones should have adequate fire detection, suppression equipment, and strict housekeeping rules to minimize risk.

More Info

Escape Routes

All corridors, hallways, stairwells, and other exit routes must remain clear and easily accessible at all times. During an assessment, check that fire exits are not obstructed or locked, emergency exit signs are illuminated and visible, and emergency lighting is installed (in case of power loss during a fire). Fire doors in these routes should be in good condition (closing properly to contain fire and smoke) and not wedged open. In a hotel, where guests may be unfamiliar with the building, clearly marked and well-lit escape routes are lifesaving. The assessment will verify that every guest room has a valid escape path (for example, via corridors to stairwells, since elevators cannot be used in a fire) and that assembly points outside are designated and safe.

More Info

Fire Safety Systems and Equipment

Review all the active and passive fire protection systems in the hotel. Fire alarm and detection systems should cover all areas (including guest rooms, halls, and plant rooms) – are they fully functional and regularly tested? Fire extinguishers of the correct type (water, CO₂, foam, etc.) should be placed on each floor and in key locations like kitchens and electrical rooms, with clear signage and annual servicing. If the hotel has a sprinkler system or fire suppression system, ensure it’s been inspected and maintained. Check smoke control systems or ventilation (some larger or high-rise hotels have systems to prevent smoke build-up). Inspect electrical installations and equipment for safety – faulty electrics are a common ignition source. Emergency power systems (like generators for alarms and lighting) should be tested. The assessment should also cover passive measures like fire-resistant construction, compartmentation (the building is divided so fire/smoke can be contained), and that any recent refurbishments haven’t compromised fire-stopping (for instance, holes around pipes or cables that need sealing to block fire spread). Each of these systems and measures must work together and be in good order to effectively protect the building and its occupants in the event of a fire.

More Info

Legal requirements and compliance for hotel fire safety: More than Fire Risk Assessment

Operating a hotel comes with strict legal responsibilities for fire safety. In the UK (England and Wales), the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is the primary legislation that applies to hotels and all other non-domestic premises. Key legal points include:

Fire Risk Assessment is mandatory: as the hotel’s owner, manager, or designated Responsible Person, you must ensure a “suitable and sufficient” fire risk assessment is carried out and kept up to date. This means you cannot ignore or postpone it – it’s required by law. The assessment should cover all parts of the premises (including guest rooms, common areas, staff areas, and external areas like car parks if relevant).
Written record: if your business has 5 or more employees, or if your premises require a licence, you are legally required to record the significant findings of the fire risk assessment and the actions taken (or to be taken) to improve fire safety. In practice, even if you have fewer staff, for any hotel or guest accommodation it’s wise to have a written record due to the higher risks with sleeping occupants. This documented fire risk assessment is something inspectors (from the local Fire and Rescue Service) may ask to see during audits or after an incident.
Implementing measures: it’s not enough to just do an assessment on paper; you must also act on its recommendations. The law requires that you implement appropriate fire safety measures to eliminate or reduce risks identified. This could include installing more fire detectors, improving alarm systems, adding fire doors or sprinklers, updating evacuation procedures, or increasing staff training – whatever the assessment finds necessary to reach an acceptable level of safety.
Regular Review: legally, you need to review your fire risk assessment regularly, especially if there’s reason to believe it is no longer valid or if significant changes have been made to the hotel. For example, if you’ve renovated, changed the interior layout, added a function room, or changed how spaces are used, you must review (and possibly redo) the assessment to address new risks. Best practice is to review at least annually even if things remain largely the same, to account for any small changes and refresh the action plan.
Enforcement and penalties: local fire authorities can inspect hotels to check compliance. If your fire safety measures are inadequate or an assessment has not been done, they can issue notices requiring improvements. In serious cases of non-compliance, you could face heavy fines or even criminal charges. Notably, failing to meet fire safety obligations can also invalidate insurance claims in the event of a fire. Thus, compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties – it’s about ensuring safety and protecting your business.

Staying on top of these requirements demonstrates due diligence and a commitment to safety. It provides peace of mind to you as an operator and reassurance to your guests that you’ve prioritized their well-being.

Professional Fire Risk Assessment Services for Hotels

Conducting a fire risk assessment for a hotel can be complex, especially for large hotels with multiple floors, facilities (restaurants, bars, gyms, etc.), and numerous guests. Engaging professional fire safety assessors can add significant value:

Expert Evaluation: our team of qualified fire safety professionals has extensive experience in the hotel industry, from boutique inns to large luxury hotels. We understand the unique challenges hotels face – such as 24/7 occupancy, high staff turnover, and guests who may not know the building. We will thoroughly evaluate your site’s specific risks (including any unique features or historic building considerations) and ensure no hazard is overlooked.

Tailored Recommendations: after the assessment, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any issues found and practical recommendations to improve safety. We focus on solutions that are sensible and compliant – balancing fire safety with operational convenience. Whether it’s suggesting better fire door maintenance schedules, rearranging storage practices, or upgrades to alarm systems, our advice is actionable. For large hotels, we can help prioritize changes based on risk level and budget.

Support with Implementation: fire safety can be daunting, but you don’t have to tackle it alone. We can assist with implementing the recommended measures – from helping train your staff in fire procedures, to guiding you through installation of equipment like alarms or emergency lighting. We aim to become your long-term fire safety partner, keeping your hotel up to code year after year.

Book a Consultation: ready to bolster your hotel’s fire safety? Book a consultation with our fire risk assessment experts. We’ll discuss your needs, offer initial guidance, and schedule an on-site assessment at your convenience. Our service is efficient and causes minimal disruption to your guests. Ultimately, investing in a professional fire risk assessment not only ensures compliance but also creates a safer environment that protects your guests, employees, and business assets.

(By choosing JTA Fire, you gain peace of mind knowing your hotel meets all fire safety regulations and is well-prepared for emergencies. Contact us today to schedule your Hotel Fire Risk Assessment.)

Book Your Free Consultation

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

What Happens During Your Fire Risk Assessment Consultation for Hotels

Site Visit & Inspection
Our consultant visits your premises to walk every relevant area and assess fire risks.
Risk Identification
We identify hazards, ignition sources, escape routes and potential risk factors.
Report with Recommendations
You’ll receive a concise, compliant report outlining findings and clear, practical steps to reduce risk and meet legal duties.
Follow-Up Support
We explain priorities and help you plan improvements that protect people and strengthen safety.

Book Your Free Consultation

Hotel Fire Risk Assessment FAQs

What are the 5 steps of a fire risk assessment?

The standard fire risk assessment process consists of five steps:

Identify Fire Hazards – find things that could start a fire (ignition sources like stoves, heaters, electrical faults) and things that could burn (fuel such as paper, bedding, decorations, flammable liquids).
Identify People at Risk – determine who might be in danger if a fire occurs (e.g. guests, staff, especially anyone sleeping, children, elderly, disabled individuals). In a hotel, this includes everyone on the premises.
Evaluate, Remove, Reduce, and Protect from Risk – analyze the chance of a fire starting and who would be harmed. Take steps to eliminate or minimize risks: for instance, replace faulty wiring, enforce no-smoking rules except in safe areas, keep corridors clear, install fire alarms and extinguishers. Put protective measures in place to keep people safe if a fire does happen (like fire doors to slow spread, sprinkler systems, etc.).
Record Findings, Plan and Train – if you have 5+ employees or a licensed business, document the significant findings of the assessment. Note what actions you have taken or will take to reduce risks. Develop an emergency plan for evacuation and inform/train everyone (staff and, as needed, guests) about what to do. Provide fire safety information and conduct drills for practice.
Review – regularly review and update the fire risk assessment over time. Situations change: a hotel might rearrange furniture, renovate, or see different occupancy levels. Re-examining the risks periodically ensures that new hazards are addressed and that all safety measures remain effective and up to date.

These five steps help create a cycle of continuous improvement in fire safety. By following them methodically, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire and be well prepared if one occurs.

Do I legally have to have a fire risk assessment?

Yes – if you own, manage, or are otherwise responsible for a hotel (or any non-domestic premises), having a current fire risk assessment is a legal requirement. In England and Wales, this falls under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The law says the responsible person (e.g. hotel owner/manager) must conduct and maintain an up-to-date fire risk assessment and implement appropriate fire safety measures. In practice, this means you need to do an assessment when you first set up or acquire the hotel, keep a written record of it if you employ 5 or more people, and update it over time. Similar regulations exist in Scotland and Northern Ireland under different legislation, but the duty is essentially the same. If you do not have a suitable fire risk assessment and a fire authority inspects your premises, you can be served an enforcement notice to comply. In severe cases of non-compliance, you could face fines or even criminal prosecution. Aside from the legal mandate, having a fire risk assessment is crucial for safety and often required by insurance providers.

Additional Resources and Templates:
Looking for more information? You might find it useful to refer to official guides and templates for hotel fire risk assessments.

The UK Government provides a comprehensive guide called Fire Safety Risk Assessment: Sleeping Accommodation (available as a free PDF) which covers hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses and more. It includes detailed checklists and examples to help you understand what to look for. While generic hotel fire risk assessment templates can be found online, keep in mind that every hotel is different. Templates are a good starting point or memory aid, but they should be adapted to your specific property – and using a professional will ensure nothing important is missed. If you’re managing a small holiday let or an Airbnb, you are not exempt – you also need a fire risk assessment for any paying guests. The principles are the same, though scaled to your property’s size. Always prioritise safety and when in doubt, seek expert advice to make sure your assessment is thorough and compliant.

What is the risk assessment of a hotel?

The term “risk assessment of a hotel” refers to the process of carrying out a fire risk assessment specifically for a hotel premises. This involves a competent person examining the hotel’s environment, operations, and layout to identify potential fire hazards and evaluating how those hazards could harm people (guests, staff, etc.) or property. The outcome of the assessment is a set of findings and recommendations to improve fire safety. In simpler terms, it’s a comprehensive check of everything in your hotel that affects fire safety – from kitchens, guest rooms, electrical equipment, and heating systems, to evacuation routes and training procedures. The goal is to ensure that all necessary precautions are in place (like alarms, extinguishers, clear exits) and that people on site know what to do if a fire starts. A hotel’s fire risk assessment will consider factors like the number of floors, how old the building is, how many guests you can accommodate, any unique features (e.g. atriums, large function halls), and so on. It’s essentially the formal evaluation that tells you whether your hotel is fire-safe and if not, what steps to take to get there.

What are the 4 P's of fire safety?

The “4 P’s of fire safety” is a general concept often used to remember the key aspects of fire safety strategy. The 4 P’s stand for:

Prevention: take steps to prevent fires from starting in the first place. In a hotel, this means good practices like regular maintenance of electrical equipment, safe cooking procedures, no open flames near flammables, enforcing smoking rules, and generally keeping potential hazards under control. Prevention is the first and most important line of defense.

Protection: put in place measures to protect people and property in case a fire does occur. This includes installing and maintaining fire protection systems: smoke detectors, fire alarms, sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, fire-resistant building materials, and fire doors. Protection measures help detect fire early and limit its spread, buying time for evacuation and fire-fighting.

Preparation: be prepared with plans and training so that if a fire happens, everyone knows how to respond. For hotels, preparation involves having an emergency evacuation plan, clearly marked exits, assembly points, and conducting fire drills. It also means training staff on their roles during an evacuation (for example, helping guests out, using extinguishers if safe, etc.). Guests should be made aware of basic emergency info (usually via the information booklet or signage in their room). Preparation ensures a swift, organized response to a fire.

Practice (or performance): Practice what to do through regular drills and make fire safety a routine part of operations. In some references the fourth P stands for “Performance” – essentially, how you and your staff perform when it counts. This covers routinely checking that all safety equipment works (alarms tests, lighting tests, extinguisher inspections) and that staff stay refreshed on procedures. By practicing and monitoring performance, you keep readiness high. In a hotel, frequent drills (including occasional nighttime scenarios) can be very useful, and lessons learned from each drill can improve your fire safety plan.

Using the 4 P’s helps ensure a holistic approach to fire safety: you Prevent what you can, Protect what is valuable, Prepare for emergencies, and Practice the response. This concept is applicable not just to hotels but to fire safety in general – although in a hotel setting, each element requires special attention due to the presence of many guests and complex building layouts.