Frequently asked questions
Becoming a fire risk assessor
Do I need a degree to become a fire risk assessor?
No single degree route is required. You need relevant knowledge, training, experience and other qualities appropriate to the work you undertake.
Can a Health & Safety Adviser become a fire risk assessor?
Yes, but general H&S experience alone is not enough. You must develop fire-specific knowledge and supervised practical experience.
Can a Facilities Manager become a fire risk assessor?
Yes. Facilities and property experience can be a strong starting point, provided fire-specific competence is developed and evidenced.
Can I go straight to Level 4?
Potentially. Current ProQual entry permits the Level 3 Award or at least three years’ proven occupational fire-risk-assessment experience, subject to suitability assessment.
Can I become a fire risk assessor online?
Knowledge can be developed online, but professional competence also requires practical experience, assessment activity and evidence that cannot be replaced by online study alone.
How long does it take?
There is no universal timescale. It depends on your starting knowledge, access to practical experience, qualification route and the scope of work you intend to undertake.
What is BS 8674:2025?
It is a framework describing competence for individual fire risk assessors at Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced levels. It is not itself a qualification or a step-by-step assessment method.
Does a qualification make me competent for every building?
No. Competence must always be matched to the premises, risks and complexity of the assessment.
