Top 5 Fire Risk Assessment Apps & Software in 2024

Fire risk assessments are essential for protecting lives and property, particularly in high-risk environments, including hospitals, schools, workplaces, etc. However, traditional fire risk assessments often involve manual data collection, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors, with inconsistent documentation and outdated records.

So, how can you overcome these challenges? Fire safety software addresses these issues by automating and streamlining inspections and the fire risk assessment process. They help ensure compliance, accurate documentation, and accountability, with nifty features such as traceable corrective actions.  

This blog will explore the 5 best fire risk assessment software, their key features, benefits factors to consider to pick the right one, and free customizable fire risk assessment checklists. 

What is Fire Risk Assessment Software?

Fire risk assessment software is designed to identify, evaluate, and manage fire hazards in various environments. It helps streamline the fire risk assessment process, making it faster, more efficient, and more accurate. 

Fire safety software helps structure the risk assessment process, by breaking the environment into zones and displaying different levels of risk for each area. It helps identify potential ignition sources, flammable materials, and faulty equipment that could cause fires. Moreover, it generates automated reports that document fire risks and the measures taken to reduce them, which can be shared with local fire departments, insurers, and safety inspectors​.

It often includes features such as emergency plan assessment tools, which help organizations evaluate the effectiveness of their fire emergency plans. With all inspection data in one place and real-time reporting, fire safety inspection software provides a comprehensive overview of fire risks. It enables better-informed decision-making and proactive risk mitigation.

Top 5 Best Fire Risk Assessment Software in 2024

Here are the 5 best fire risk assessment software in 2024. 

1. GoAudits

GoAudits is an all-in-one fire risk assessment software designed to streamline and enhance the auditing and inspection processes across various industries. It offers an extensive range of features to ensure thorough and tailored audits, professional and comprehensive reports, and timely communication and follow-up.

GoAudits safety inspection app & software enhances efficiency, reduces human error, and ensures compliance with regulatory standards. It offers actionable insights, enabling quick decision-making and reduced operational costs. GoAudits is user-friendly, scalable, and suitable for various industries, making it one of the best fire risk assessment software for improving inspection efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.

Key Features and Highlights of GoAudits: 

• Create and customize fire risk assessment checklists to suit specific inspection and industry needs.
• Conduct fire risk assessments up to 5 times faster, even without internet access, syncing data automatically later.
• Capture photos, add annotations, and provide detailed evidence.
• Generate professional reports immediately after each fire risk assessment. Automatically distribute these reports to relevant stakeholders for timely action.
• Assign tasks based on inspection findings and track their completion. Set automatic reminders to ensure tasks are completed on time.
• Use the smart dashboard to access fire risk assessment data with key performance indicators, and identify trends and patterns and improvement areas.
• GoAudits mobile fire risk assessment app is available in six different languages.

2. Mobiess 

Mobiess fire risk assessment software is a comprehensive tool designed to digitize fire risk assessments, providing functionalities that streamline the process. enhances efficiency, compliance, and data accuracy for facilities management and other sectors. It is suitable for organizations of all sizes, offering detailed analytics and easy management of fire safety compliance.

Key Features and Highlights of Mobiess:

• Supports PAS 79: 2020 standards, with real-time dashboards and automated report generation.
• Available on iOS and Android, allowing offline access and real-time data sync.
• Users can attach photos, sketches, and annotations.
• Supports multiple projects, offers instant data availability, and manages corrective actions.

3. Firehub 

Firehub is a comprehensive fire risk assessment software designed to simplify the assessment process and ensure compliance with safety standards. It helps streamline the workflow, improve accuracy, and enhance data security, benefiting sole traders, companies, and health and safety professionals alike.

Key Features and Highlights of Firehub:

• Follows industry-standard procedures for consistency and accuracy.
• Speeds up report creation by providing common answers.
• Allows adding images directly to reports.
• Manages client information and assessments efficiently.
• Safeguards sensitive data.
• Enables work without the internet and adapts to specific business and industry needs.

4. ClickFRA

ClickFRA is a comprehensive, cloud-based fire risk assessment software designed to streamline the fire risk assessment process for businesses. It offers a user-friendly interface that requires no prior experience, enabling users to easily generate detailed fire risk reports. It also includes an array of pre-written documents, calculators for extinguisher requirements, and tools for tracking compliance. It is cost-effective fire safety inspection software, with scalable pricing.

Key Features and Highlights of ClickFRA:

• Simple, step-by-step guidance and intuitive interface.
• Generates detailed, customizable fire risk assessment reports.
• Includes calculators, online guides, and templates.
• Allows uploading of building plans and other relevant documents.
• Helps track and maintain compliance with fire safety regulations.
• Data is securely stored and accessible from any device.
• Affordable pricing with discounts for multiple buildings.

5. Vision PRO Software

Vision PRO Software offers comprehensive tools for conducting and managing fire risk assessments. This fire risk assessment software supports PAS 79 and bespoke templates, ensuring compliance with industry standards. It features a user-friendly interface for managing audits, risk analysis, and asset tracking.

Key Features and Highlights of Vision PRO Software:

• Access ready-made PAS 79 templates or create custom ones tailored to specific needs.
• Convert traditional forms into interactive digital formats for insightful data collection.
• Track and maintain fire safety equipment using NFC-enabled tags.
• Automated email notifications ensure timely responses to potential issues.
• Collect and manage data on-site, enhancing flexibility.

Free Fire Risk Assessment Checklists & Templates

You can start your fire risk assessments immediately. Sign up for free and start using these fire risk assessment checklists: 

• Fire Risk Assessment Checklist
• Fire Prevention Inspection Checklist
• Fire Alarm Inspection
• Fire Safety Inspection Checklist
• Annual Fire Extinguisher Inspection
• Fire Drill Record
• Hotel Fire Safety Audit Checklist
• Fire Sprinkler System Inspection Checklist
• NFPA 25 Water Storage Tanks Inspection
• NFPA 25 Fire Pump Inspection
• Fire Safety Compliant Checklist
• Fire Door Inspection Checklist
• Fire Pump Inspection Checklist
• Workplace Fire Safety Checklist
• Fire Protection Equipment Checklist
• Fire Testing Checklist
• Smoke Detector Inspection Checklist
• Fire Drill Checklist Template

Why Digitize Fire Risk Assessments with Fire Risk Assessment Software?

Digitizing fire risk assessments using fire risk assessment apps offers several benefits. 

• Digital fire risk assessment software minimizes the risk of human error by standardizing data collection and analysis processes. It provides a consistent framework for identifying potential fire hazards, such as sources of ignition or combustible materials. 
• Fire safety apps and software centralize information on fire risks, safety measures, and compliance status. These reports can be easily shared with stakeholders. It helps organizations to understand and mitigate recurring issues.
• With scheduled assessments, reminders, efficient inspections, corrective action tracking, and real-time visibility, fire safety software enables organizations to implement preventive measures before incidents occur. 
• Fire risk assessment software streamlines the risk assessment process, reducing the need for manual inspections and paperwork. It translates into cost savings, as it decreases labor costs and the potential for costly errors or oversights. Moreover, by identifying high-risk areas, it helps prioritize resource allocation. 
• Fire safety compliance software helps maintain compliance with safety regulations by keeping detailed records of assessments, actions taken, and follow-up measures. It is crucial for audits and regulatory reviews. 

How to Choose the Best Fire Risk Assessment Software?

Here are some points you should consider when choosing the ideal solution for your business.

• Understand Your Business and Industry Requirements

Before diving into specific features and functionalities, it’s essential to assess your unique business needs and industry requirements. Different sectors have varying fire safety regulations and operational challenges. For example, commercial buildings may require inspection and reporting features, while manufacturing facilities might need fire safety compliance software for monitoring equipment compliance. Understanding these requirements ensures you select fire risk assessment software that aligns with your operational demands and regulatory obligations​.

• Cost and ROI

The cost of fire safety fire risk assessment software varies widely, depending on the features and the scale of the implementation. While it might be tempting to opt for a less expensive option, consider the long-term return on investment (ROI). A higher initial cost can be justified if the fire risk assessment app & software offer features that save time, reduce manual errors, and enhance safety compliance. Evaluate the pricing models, including subscription fees, one-time payments, and additional costs for updates or maintenance​.

• Customer Support and Training

Reliable customer support and comprehensive training resources are critical when adopting new fire safety software. Ensure the vendor provides adequate support channels, such as live chat, phone support, and a robust help center. Training resources, including manuals, tutorials, and onboarding sessions, help your team quickly adapt to the new system, minimizing downtime and enhancing productivity​.

• Compliance with Fire Safety Regulations and Standards

The fire safety inspection software should adhere to relevant local, state, and national regulations, such as those set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Features like automated compliance tracking, customizable checklists, and reporting tools help ensure that your organization meets all legal requirements, reducing the risk of penalties or operational shutdowns​.

• Free Trials and Demos

Use free trials and demos to evaluate the fire safety app’s fit for your needs. These options allow you to test its features, usability, and compatibility with your existing systems. Engaging in a hands-on trial helps identify any potential issues before making a financial commitment​.

• Ease of Use

Finally, the fire risk assessment software should be user-friendly, with an intuitive interface that reduces the learning curve. Complex systems can hinder adoption and lead to errors. A straightforward design with easy navigation ensures that your team can efficiently use the software, maximizing its benefits​.

• Essential Features

Key features to look for in fire risk assessment apps & software include:

• Risk assessment tools to facilitate the identification and mitigation of potential fire hazards.
• Customizable inspection checklists for various regulatory standards, ensuring thorough inspections.
• Mobile accessibility for inspectors to perform tasks on-the-go.
• Offline functionality for areas with limited internet access, ensuring uninterrupted data collection.
• Real-time monitoring to provide instant updates on fire safety status is critical for proactive management.
• Corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to help manage and document necessary actions following an inspection.
• Tasks and workflow automation streamline operations by automating routine tasks, such as scheduling inspections and follow-ups.
• Instant report generation simplifies the creation of detailed reports, enhancing transparency and accountability​.

What is a Fire Risk Assessment?

A fire risk assessment is a structured process designed to identify and evaluate potential fire hazards within a premises, aiming to reduce or eliminate the associated risks. This process involves several critical steps: identifying fire hazards, determining who might be at risk, evaluating and controlling the risks, documenting the findings, and regularly reviewing and updating the assessment.

We’ll discuss the steps to perform a fire risk assessment in detail a little later in this blog. 

Whether you are a company based in the USA, Europe, or other countries, fire safety checks and fire assessments are a legal requirement.

In England and Wales the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) states that for workplaces with five or more employees, it is necessary to designate a responsible individual to conduct a fire risk assessment and to ensure adequate fire safety measures are in place.

However, the responsibility for fire safety in business is yours if you are: 

• The employer
• The owner, or
• The person in charge of the  control of the premises, for example, a facilities manager, building manager, managing agent, or risk assessor

In the USA, Latin America, the Middle East North Africa, China, and other 50 countries the NFPA‘s fire codes and standards are voluntary. However, several states have implemented Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) regulations, which have integrated practices from NFPA standards, therefore compliance with these standards becomes mandatory.

Types of Fire Risk Assessment

Fire risk assessments are categorized into four main types, each with specific scopes and methodologies, particularly relevant to residential blocks and other complex structures. Here’s an overview of the types:

Type 1: Common Parts Only (Non-Destructive)

A Type 1 fire risk assessment is the most basic and widely used. It focuses solely on the common areas of a building, such as lobbies, stairwells, and hallways, without accessing individual flats. This non-destructive assessment checks for adequate fire safety measures, including emergency lighting, clear signage for escape routes, and fire doors. It’s a visual inspection that does not involve opening up structures, making it a straightforward and cost-effective option. This type often suffices for general compliance with fire safety regulations, particularly when no immediate risks are suspected in the structure​.

Type 2: Common Parts Only (Destructive)

Type 2 assessments are more invasive than Type 1 and are conducted when there are concerns about potential structural deficiencies that could facilitate the spread of fire. This assessment includes destructive sampling, such as removing panels or inspecting voids, to examine the integrity of fire barriers and compartmentation. These assessments are rare and typically recommended only if a Type 1 assessment raises significant concerns. Due to the invasive nature, Type 2 assessments often require the presence of a contractor and are usually carried out in unoccupied buildings to avoid disruption​.

Type 3: Common Parts and Flats (Non-Destructive)

Expanding beyond the requirements of the Fire Safety Order, Type 3 assessments include both the common areas and individual flats. This non-destructive assessment examines fire detection systems, means of escape, compartmentation between flats, and fire resistance of doors. Type 3 assessments are more comprehensive and are particularly valuable in identifying fire risks within individual units that could affect the entire building. However, they can be challenging to arrange, especially in occupied premises, as access to private dwellings is required​.

Type 4: Common Parts and Flats (Destructive)

Type 4 assessments are the most thorough and involve destructive inspection in both common areas and individual flats. This type assesses all the same aspects as a Type 3 assessment but includes invasive procedures to inspect concealed spaces. The purpose is to identify serious defects in fire stopping and compartmentation that could compromise the building’s fire safety. Due to its invasive nature, this assessment is usually recommended only when there is strong evidence of potential issues, such as poor construction or alterations. It often necessitates temporary relocation of occupants and restoration work after the inspection​.

Fire Risk Assessment: A Step-By-Step Guide

Here are the steps to perform a fire risk assessment.

Step 1: Identify Fire Hazards

This includes carefully examining possible sources of ignition. You need to check out anything that could potentially spark a flame, like electronics or heating vents, and anything that could easily go up in flames, like garbage or chemicals. HSA states that fires are caused by three main elements: Heat – Oxygen – Fuel.

To prevent fires, you must eliminate at least one of these elements. In case all three of these elements are present when the heat reaches a certain level, a fire can start and spread quickly. However, ​a fire risk assessment should take into account all three elements.

Step 2: Identify People at Risk

Identify individuals who may be at risk in the event of a fire. This includes: 

• Employees
• Customers 
• Visitors
• External Contractors (suppliers) 
• Or anyone who may be particularly vulnerable, such as the elderly, children, or disabled individuals.

Also, make sure to have an effective and quick evacuation plan to help people who may need extra help, like the elderly, children, or those with disabilities. Offer extra help like wheelchairs or special routes if needed. Make sure everyone knows the plan and practice it often. 

Here are a few examples of questions you can include in your fire risk assessment form for visitors:

1. Are all visitors and contractors signed in the relevant log?
2. Have all visitors and contractors been made aware of fire safety procedures?
3. In the event of a fire is a system in place to take account of visitors and contractors?
4. Is there adequate lighting to facilitate movement towards the escape routes?
5. Can all fire exits be opened immediately and easily?

Step 3: Evaluate, Remove, or Reduce the Risks

Having identified the hazards and the people at risk, you should now evaluate how likely a fire could start and cause harm. Efforts should then be made to remove or reduce these risks, which could involve anything from stricter controls over flammable substances to the installation of appropriate fire detection systems.

Step 4: Record Your Findings, Prepare an Emergency Plan, and Provide Training

Ensure that all findings and actions are properly recorded, and in case of failure, a clear plan of action is set out. This plan should include details on all preventative and protective measures. Conduct regular fire drills to ensure everyone is familiar with evacuation procedures and can respond swiftly in an emergency.

Fire risk assessment apps & software can help you streamline this process, allowing for easy updating, sharing, and accessing of safety records and training materials​. 

Step 5: Conduct Regular Fire Safety Inspections to Track Compliance

Regular inspections are essential for maintaining fire safety standards. Schedule periodic checks to ensure all safety measures are in place and functioning correctly. Use a systematic approach to inspect fire alarms, emergency lighting, and exit routes. Track compliance with fire safety regulations and address any deficiencies promptly. Integrate these inspections with other fire safety activities, such as fire door inspections and fire extinguisher inspections, for a comprehensive approach. 

Fire risk assessment software can help you streamline these inspections by providing checklists, reminders, and real-time reporting, enhancing overall efficiency and compliance.

Step 6: Implementing a Fire Safety Plan 

Once the fire risk assessment has been completed, it’s crucial to implement a fire safety plan. This plan should include:

• Emergency Routes and Exits: Make sure they are well-marked and kept clear at all times.
• Fire Detection and Warning Systems: Install appropriate fire detection systems and ensure they are regularly maintained.
• Fire Fighting Equipment: Depending on the size and nature of your workplace, appropriate fire fighting equipment should be easily accessible.
• Removal or Safe Storage of Dangerous Substances: Hazardous or flammable substances should be properly stored or removed from the workplace.
• Emergency Fire Evacuation Plan: All staff members should be aware of what to do in the event of a fire.
• Information and Training: Employees must be well-informed about the risks in your workplace, and how to respond in case of a fire. Regular fire drills are highly recommended.

Step 7: Review and Update Regularly

Fire risk assessments are not static documents; they should be reviewed and updated regularly, especially when there are changes in the building structure, occupancy, or use. Regular updates help maintain compliance with legal requirements and ensure ongoing safety improvements.

Fire Risk Assessment Software for Workplace Safety Compliance

If your business has 5 or more individuals, it is required by law to have a documented fire risk assessment. It is important to stay updated on any changes and ensure that fire inspections are conducted as scheduled and that everyone is trained on emergency procedures for their safety. 

Failing to do so could put your employees at risk and result in costly consequences. Even if this is a non-negotiable step in your business, this process can take up a lot of time and resources. 

Share this article