Running a nursery means more than creating a safe, welcoming environment for children; you're also responsible for meeting a wide range of safety regulations, including fire safety. One area often overlooked or misunderstood is what OFSTED expects regarding fire risk assessments and fire precautions in early years settings.
At Red Peak, we work with nurseries across Essex and London to make sure they meet fire safety regulations, stay OFSTED-ready, and protect children, staff, and visitors. Here's what you need to know:
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Do Nurseries Need a Fire Risk Assessment?
Yes. If you operate a nursery, whether privately owned, part of a school, or a community setting, you are legally required to carry out a fire risk assessment under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
If you have five or more employees (which includes part-time and casual staff), the assessment must be documented in writing. In fact, official government guidance confirms this. According to the Department for Education:
"Providers must carry out risk assessments to identify the general fire precautions they must take to prevent fires and protect those on the premises."
(GOV.UK – Protocol between Ofsted and Fire & Rescue Authorities)
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What Does OFSTED Expect?
OFSTED inspectors are not fire officers, but they do expect your nursery to demonstrate that fire safety is well managed. During inspections, they may ask:
• Do you have a recent, written fire risk assessment?
• Do staff know what to do in case of a fire?
• Is fire safety training provided to new and existing staff?
• Are evacuation procedures suitable for young children and babies?
Failure to meet these standards could lead to poor inspection outcomes and even enforcement action from your local fire authority.
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Key Fire Safety Measures for Nurseries
To stay compliant and protect everyone in your care, nurseries should:
✅ Have a Suitable Fire Risk Assessment
This should be carried out by a competent person and reviewed regularly; especially after any changes to the building, occupancy, or layout.
✅ Install and Maintain Fire Detection Systems
Smoke detectors, fire alarms, and manual call points should be installed and tested regularly.
✅ Provide Clear Escape Routes
Evacuation routes should be:
• Clearly marked
• Free from obstructions
• Wide enough for staff with children (including buggies or children with mobility issues)
✅ Train Staff in Fire Safety and Evacuation
All staff must understand:
• The location of fire exits and equipment
• How to raise the alarm
• How to evacuate children safely
✅ Carry Out Fire Drills and Keep Records
Fire drills should be:
• Carried out at least once every term
• Involve all staff and children (as appropriate)
• Documented, including timings and any issues raised
✅ Check and Maintain Fire Equipment
Extinguishers, emergency lighting, and alarm systems should be inspected and serviced annually by a competent contractor.
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How Red Peak Compliance Can Help
At Red Peak Compliance, we understand the unique challenges of fire safety in early years settings. We offer:
• Fire risk assessments tailored for nurseries and childcare providers
• Friendly, practical advice with no unnecessary jargon
• Help with action plans, evacuation procedures, and training
• Competitive pricing for local businesses in Essex and East London
We’ll help ensure your nursery meets OFSTED expectations and complies with fire safety law - giving you peace of mind and helping you focus on what you do best: caring for children. Get a quote for free now by clicking here.