Fire Risk Assessment Information for Commercial Buildings

Warehouses and factories play a vital role in local industry across the West Midlands and Staffordshire, but they also present a range of fire safety challenges. From stored materials and machinery to working processes and staff numbers, these environments require a clear and proportionate approach to fire safety management.

A fire risk assessment (FRA) is a legal requirement for most non-domestic premises and forms the foundation of effective fire safety in warehouses and factories. It helps identify fire hazards, assess risks, and confirm whether suitable control measures are in place to protect people, property, and business continuity.

Why warehouses and factories need a fire risk assessment

Industrial premises often contain increased ignition sources, such as machinery, electrical systems, heating equipment, and production processes. Large open spaces, high storage, and complex layouts can also affect how a fire develops and how safely people can evacuate.

A suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment helps duty holders understand:

• Where fire hazards exist

• How people may be affected

• Whether escape routes are suitable and protected

• If fire detection, alarms, and emergency lighting are appropriate

• What practical improvements are required

Common issues identified during warehouse and factory fire risk assessments include poor housekeeping, obstructed escape routes, inadequate separation between processes and storage, and unclear emergency procedures.

Local fire safety support across the region

Businesses operating warehouses and factories in Walsall, Darlaston, Willenhall, Aldridge, and Bloxwich must ensure their fire safety arrangements reflect the size and use of their premises. The same applies across nearby areas such as Cannock, Burntwood, Lichfield, Rugeley, Stafford, Wolverhampton, and the wider Staffordshire and West Midlands region.

Every premises is different. A small light-industrial unit will have very different risks compared to a large warehouse or production facility. That’s why a risk-based, proportionate approach is essential. Fire safety should be tailored to how the building is actually used, not based on generic assumptions.

A practical, proportionate approach to industrial fire safety

A well-prepared fire risk assessment should be clear, structured, and easy to understand. Recommendations should focus on realistic, achievable improvements rather than unnecessary complexity or over-engineering.

For many warehouses and factories, this may include:

• Suitable fire detection and warning systems

• Clearly defined and protected escape routes

• Appropriate emergency lighting

• Fire separation between processes and storage

• Clear fire safety procedures and staff awareness

The aim is to reduce risk, support compliance, and help businesses operate safely and confidently.

Keeping your premises compliant

Fire risk assessments should be reviewed regularly, particularly following changes to layout, processes, storage arrangements, or staffing levels. Keeping fire safety under review helps demonstrate due diligence and supports a safe working environment.

If you operate a warehouse or factory in Walsall, Staffordshire, or the West Midlands, a clear and proportionate fire risk assessment is an essential part of responsible business management.