Guide
Fire Hazards in the Workplace
By Fire Risk Experts editorial team. Reviewed by Fire safety editorial reviewer. Last reviewed: 19 July 2026. Last updated: 19 July 2026. Next review: 19 January 2027.
Common workplace fire hazards and how they are considered during fire risk assessment preparation.
Direct answer
Common workplace fire hazards include overloaded electrics, combustible storage, cooking, hot works, flammable materials, poor housekeeping and blocked escape routes.
Key takeaways
- Hazards depend on building use.
- Housekeeping and maintenance are recurring themes.
- Escape routes need active management.
Fire Risk Assessments pillar
This guide is part of the Fire Risk Assessments pillar. Use it alongside related guidance and property-specific pages when preparing an enquiry.
Common hazard groups
An assessor will usually consider ignition sources, fuels, oxygen sources, people at risk and how well existing controls are managed.
- Electrical equipment and charging
- Cooking, heating and hot works
- Waste, stock and combustible displays
- Plant rooms, stores and shared escape routes
What to prepare
- Property address, postcode, use and occupancy details.
- Existing fire risk assessment and action plan, if available.
- Fire alarm, emergency lighting, extinguisher and fire-door records where held.
- Information about sleeping accommodation, vulnerable occupants or unusual risks.
Sources
- Fire safety in the workplace, GOV.UK. Accessed 2026-07-19. Responsibilities for employers, owners, landlords, occupiers and others with control of non-domestic premises.
- Fire safety: guidance for those with legal duties, Home Office. Accessed 2026-07-19. Collection of fire safety law and guidance for responsible persons.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need technical details before requesting a quote?
No. Start with property type, address, use, occupancy, floors, sleeping accommodation and timescale.
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