07576 584901Testmasterinfo@gmail.com 24/7 online enquiries About Services Areas ReviewsOur WorkSocialContact07576 584901Request a Free Quote Home/Blog/Fire safetyFire safety # Fire safety for shops and offices: a practical management checklist By Test Master UK14 September 20262 min read Service illustration: fire safetyA shop or office fire safety checklist is useful when it supports the premises' actual fire risk assessment. It should not replace that assessment or assume that every unit has the same hazards. Focus on what can change during normal trading: storage, escape routes, occupancy, equipment condition and the way faults are reported. ## Keep escape routes usable Check that deliveries, displays and furniture have not obstructed the planned routes. Consider the route people really take, including shared corridors and exits controlled by another occupier. Report defects in doors or exit arrangements instead of accepting an improvised workaround. A layout change can affect more than floor space. New stock storage, a mezzanine or altered workstation arrangement may need review of the assessment and evacuation information. Include visitors and people who may need assistance in the management plan. ## Check systems and equipment records Confirm that routine alarm and emergency lighting checks follow the agreed procedures and that competent maintenance is up to date. Read outstanding defects, not only the latest service date. A test recorded as failed needs an action and an owner. Check firefighting equipment is present where required and accessible. Use the risk assessment and maintenance advice to decide what is suitable. Staff should know the emergency plan; the presence of extinguishers is not an instruction for untrained people to fight a fire. ## Control everyday electrical risks Damaged leads, unsuitable extension arrangements and equipment placed near combustible stock should be reported promptly. Keep the appliance maintenance plan distinct from the fixed installation inspection. Adding more devices can change the situation even if the last reports were satisfactory. Request PAT testing for workplace equipment, emergency lighting testing or fire extinguisher servicing for the relevant scope. Use a fire risk assessment to review the overall precautions. ## Assign ownership and revisit changes Name who checks records, reports faults and follows up actions. Coordinate with the landlord or other occupiers where duties and systems overlap. Review the assessment when changes make it necessary and keep staff information aligned with the current arrangements. - Clear, usable escape routes and exits. - Current system checks with defects followed through. - Accessible, suitable firefighting equipment where required. - Reported electrical damage and controlled equipment changes. - Named responsibilities and staff emergency information. ## Sources and further reading - GOV.UK: Fire safety risk assessment, offices and shops - GOV.UK: Workplace fire safety responsibilities - HSE: Portable appliance testing FAQsGeneral guidance for premises in England, checked on 5 November 2026. Requirements depend on your property, systems and applicable conditions. Follow competent advice, current official guidance and your local authority's requirements. ## In this guide - Keep escape routes usable - Check systems and equipment records - Control everyday electrical risks - Assign ownership and revisit changes ## Need testing for your premises? Greenford-based electrical and fire safety services across London. Get a free quote 07576 584901 ## Related guides All guides Fire safety · 2 min read ## Fire extinguisher servicing: checks, maintenance and replacement planning Understand routine extinguisher checks, competent servicing and why equipment selection should follow your premises' fire risk assessment. 16 September 2026 Fire safety · 2 min read ## Turning a fire risk assessment into a practical action plan Prioritise fire risk assessment findings, assign responsibility and retain completion evidence instead of filing a report without follow-up. 11 September 2026 Electrical and fire safety compliance testing for businesses, property managers and landlords across London and Greenford. Read our Google reviewsLeave us a review ## Services - PAT Testing - Commercial EICR Testing - Residential EICR Testing - Emergency Lighting Testing - Fire Alarm Testing - Fire Extinguisher Servicing - Fire Door Inspection - Fire Risk Assessments - Remedial Works for Fire Compliance ## Service Areas - Greenford - Central London - All London Boroughs - West London - North London - South London - East London - Ealing - Uxbridge - Slough - Watford ## Contact - 07576 584901 - Testmasterinfo@gmail.com - Postal address669 Greenford Road, UB6 8QL - LinkedInOpening hours: 24/7 online enquiries © 2026 Test Master Ltd. All rights reserved. HomeAboutReviewsOur WorkContactPrivacy PolicyTerms & ConditionsCookie Policy Call NowFree Quote Chat on WhatsApp