BSI release new standard framework for competence of individual fire risk assessors

The British Standards Institute (BSI) has published BS 8674:2025, a new framework for “assessing and assuring the competence of individual fire risk assessors operating in the built environment.” 

This is a step towards the UK government’s pledge to fulfil one of the key recommendations made in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report - to “establish a system of mandatory accreditation to certify the competence of fire risk assessors by setting standards for qualification and continuing professional development and such other measures as may be considered necessary or desirable”.

The performance-based framework defines three levels of competence, Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced, acknowledging the varying scope of skills, knowledge and experience of individuals working within the sector. It outlines the criteria they must meet to be deemed competent to carry out fire risk assessments on increasingly complex buildings and differing occupancy types.

As per the BSI, BS 8674:2025  is expected to be used by:

• persons or organizations needing to appoint a fire risk assessor
• dutyholders or those with a responsibility for fire safety undertaking fire risk assessments
• organizations that will assess the competence of fire risk assessors, including professional bodies, trade bodies and those that regulate by statute or facilitate voluntary self‑regulation
• training providers and awarding organizations
• national accreditation and national qualification authorities
• government agencies
• enforcement authorities
• employers, including those who use in-house fire risk assessors; and
• insurers.

The new Standard does not cover the fire risk assessment process itself and it does not address the competence of organisations.

Read the overview of BS 8674:2025 and purchase your copy by visiting the BSI Knowledge hub.

Don’t forget, CABE Members who work within a micro business have access to a pilot subscription programme for the BSI Knowledge Library – visit the member resources and discounts page to find out more.