The fire safety landscape in the UK has undergone one of its most significant shifts in years.
The publication of BS 8674:2025 – Built Environment: Framework for Competence of Individual Fire Risk Assessors, the expectations placed on fire risk assessors have become clearer, more structured, and far more rigorous. This is not just another standard—it’s a milestone in the professionalism of the fire risk assessment sector.
This blog unpacks what BS 8674 means, why it matters, and how organisations can adapt confidently.
Why BS 8674 Was Introduced
The development of BS 8674 was driven by a long‑recognised issue: inconsistent competence across the fire risk assessment sector. Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the need for a robust, transparent, and enforceable competency framework became undeniable. The new standard aims to:
- Reduce variability in assessor qualifications
- Provide a consistent benchmark across the industry
- Support the professionalism of fire risk assessors
- Improve safety outcomes across the built environment
This is the first time the UK has had a formal, structured competency framework specifically for fire risk assessors.
What BS 8674 Actually Covers
BS 8674 sets out a clear framework for assessing the competence of individual fire risk assessors, introducing three defined levels of competence:
| Competency Level | Typical Application | What It Means |
| Foundation | Low‑risk, simple premises | Assessors must demonstrate basic knowledge and skills appropriate for straightforward environments. |
| Intermediate | Medium‑risk buildings | Requires deeper technical understanding and experience. |
| Advanced | High‑risk or complex premises | Reserved for assessors with extensive expertise and the ability to manage complex fire safety challenges. |
These levels align assessor capability with the risk profile of the premises, helping duty holders choose the right person for the job.
What “Competence” Means Under BS 8674
Competence is no longer a vague concept. Under BS 8674, it is defined through:
- Knowledge
Understanding of fire safety principles, legislation, human behaviour in fire, building construction, and fire protection systems. - Skills
Ability to apply knowledge in real‑world scenarios, identify hazards, evaluate risk, and recommend proportionate measures. - Experience
Demonstrated track record of conducting assessments appropriate to the building type and risk level. - Professional Behaviours
Ethics, communication, impartiality, and commitment to continuous professional development (CPD).
This holistic approach ensures assessors are not just qualified on paper—they are genuinely capable.
What This Means for the Responsible Person, Duty holders, or Owners
If you’re responsible for fire safety in a building, BS 8674 gives you a clearer roadmap for selecting a competent assessor. You should now:
- Match the assessor’s competency level to your building’s risk profile
- Request evidence of competence (qualifications, CPD, portfolio of work)
- Ensure the assessor works within their defined scope
- Expect greater consistency and transparency in assessment quality
For small and medium‑sized businesses, this clarity is especially valuable. It removes guesswork and reduces the risk of appointing someone who is under‑qualified.
These simple actions may be prudent:
- Reassess your building’s fire risk profile
- Update procurement processes to align with BS 8674
- Request competency evidence from assessors
- Consider third‑party certification schemes as an added layer of assurance
The Bigger Picture: A Safer Built Environment
BS 8674 is more than a technical standard—it’s a cultural shift. By setting clear expectations and raising the bar for competence, it supports a safer, more accountable fire safety ecosystem.
The standard reflects lessons learned from past failures and sets the stage for a more professional, consistent, and trustworthy fire risk assessment sector. It’s a step forward that the industry has long needed.
K M Fire and Safety – Providing Competent Fire Risk Assessor Services
Here at K M Fire and Safety, we have up-skilled our assessors to comply with the highest standards, passing the Proqual Level Four Award in Advanced Fire Risk Assessment.
This award complements the assessor’s previous career within the fire safety enforcement and advisory sector with a local authority fire brigade and an extensive portfolio of fire risk assessment activities across all risk levels and various industry sectors.
Membership of ‘Fire Aware’ is also maintained to demonstrate ongoing commitment to moral and ethical business practices.