Definition
PAS 79
PAS 79 is the publicly available specification that defines best-practice guidance for fire risk assessors undertaking fire risk assessments in the UK. PAS 79-1:2020 covers non-complex premises and PAS 79-2:2020 covers housing. Both set out the expected methodology, content, and format of a fire risk assessment, and are widely referenced by enforcers and insurers when evaluating assessor competence.
Terms mentioned in this definition
Relevant UK Standards & Legislation
- PAS 79-1:2020Fire risk assessments — guidance for non-complex premises
- PAS 79-2:2020Fire risk assessments — guidance for housing
- Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005Creates the underlying legal duty for which PAS 79 provides the best-practice framework
Related Terms
- Fire Risk AssessmentFire Risk AssessmentA fire risk assessment is a systematic examination of a premises to identify fire hazards, evaluate the risk to people, and implement or recommend appropriate fire safety measures. All non-domestic premises must have a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, carried out by a competent person and reviewed regularly — or whenever significant changes occur.View definition
- Responsible Person (Fire Safety)Fire Regulations & StandardsThe responsible person is the individual or organisation with control of a non-domestic premises who, under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, has a legal duty to take reasonable steps to reduce the risk of fire, protect occupants, and maintain fire safety measures — including carrying out or commissioning a suitable fire risk assessment.View definition
- Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005Fire Regulations & StandardsThe Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO) is the primary fire safety legislation in England and Wales, applying to all non-domestic premises. It places a legal duty on the responsible person to carry out a fire risk assessment, implement appropriate fire safety measures, and maintain them effectively. Non-compliance can result in unlimited fines or imprisonment of up to two years.View definition
- Community RiskFire Risk AssessmentCommunity risk refers to the likelihood and potential impact of unwanted fire-related events occurring within a local area. Fire and rescue services assess community risk to prioritise prevention activity, allocate resources, and set response standards through their Integrated Risk Management Plans.View definition
Frequently Asked Questions
PAS 79 is the publicly available specification that defines best-practice guidance for fire risk assessors undertaking fire risk assessments in the UK. PAS 79-1:2020 covers non-complex premises and PAS 79-2:2020 covers housing. Both set out the expected methodology, content, and format of a fire risk assessment, and are widely referenced by enforcers and insurers when evaluating assessor competence.
Requirements for pas 79 in the UK depend on the type of premises and applicable legislation, including the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and relevant British Standards. The responsible person for a premises must ensure adequate fire safety provisions are in place. The British Fire Consortium can provide guidance — contact our team or search our member directory to find a qualified specialist.
PAS 79 and Fire Risk Assessment are related fire safety concepts but serve different purposes. See our individual glossary entries for detailed definitions. For expert guidance on which applies to your premises, consult a BFC member company.
The British Fire Consortium offers EAL Level 3 accredited training covering fire safety systems including topics related to pas 79. Our courses are the only nationally recognised Level 3 qualifications across all fire disciplines. View our training courses or use the member directory to find a qualified trainer near you.