Property: Single-storey retail gift shop Industry: Commercial Contract Awarded to: RiskFire Ltd Type of Contract: FRA Location: 65 North St, Sudbury, CO101RE Project Duration: 1 day Project Overview and Scope RiskFire was engaged to address significant fire safety risks at The White Nettle, a gift shop incorporating a kiln and associated storage areas. The objective of the project was to reduce fire hazards, implement compliant safety measures, and improve staff preparedness through a structured programme of inspection, remediation, and training. Our scope included reviewing electrical safety, combustible materials management, fire detection and alarm systems, signage, policies and procedures, staff competency, and record-keeping arrangements. Project Controls and Documentation Provided Full wiring inspection and electrical testing report PAT testing schedule and certification Updated site fire safety policy Site-specific emergency plan and evacuation arrangements Fire alarm installation certificates (BS5839 compliant) Fire extinguisher servicing records (BS5306 compliant) Staff fire safety training records and induction materials Fire drill logs and warden/marshal training certificates Record-keeping framework for ongoing alarm testing, training, and drills Installed signage schedule and photographic evidence Challenges and Solutions The premises presented several interlinked fire safety challenges. Electrical safety issues included the absence of regular wiring inspections, no PAT testing regime, and the use of portable heaters, all of which heightened ignition risks. In addition, combustible materials were stored too close to the kiln and general housekeeping, particularly on the first floor, had led to a buildup of fire-loading. Signage and notices across the premises were insufficient, with ‘No Smoking’ signs and fire action notices missing at key locations. Fire detection and alarm provisions were also lacking, with no compliant alarm system installed and no routine servicing of existing smoke detectors. Portable fire extinguishers had not been maintained in accordance with BS5306, leaving staff without reliable first-aid firefighting equipment. Procedural controls were similarly underdeveloped, with no formal fire safety policy, an absence of a site-specific emergency plan, and no evidence of staff fire safety training, evacuation drills, or competency records. Record-keeping processes for monitoring testing, drills, or alarm checks were also not in place. RiskFire implemented a coordinated plan to resolve these issues. Electrical systems were inspected and tested by a competent contractor, and a full PAT regime was introduced for all portable equipment. Portable heaters were removed or restricted to reduce ignition risk. Combustible materials were relocated away from heat sources, and the first floor received a full housekeeping clean to reduce fire loading. All required signage was installed, including ‘No Smoking’ notices and fire action information at entrances and communal spaces. A new fire alarm system meeting BS5839 standards was installed, and routine servicing arrangements were formally established. Fire extinguishers were serviced by an accredited provider to restore compliance. To strengthen procedural resilience, RiskFire developed a detailed fire safety policy and created an emergency plan covering evacuation arrangements, fire warden duties, and staff responsibilities. Key personnel received fire warden/marshal training, and a full staff induction programme was delivered, covering fire risks, equipment use, alarm systems, and evacuation procedures. Formal fire drills were introduced, and an annual drill schedule was implemented. A structured record-keeping framework was put in place for all ongoing testing, maintenance, training, and drills, ensuring future audit readiness. Outcome and Outputs Achieved The interventions at The White Nettle delivered substantial improvements across all areas of fire safety management. The premises now comply with the requirements of the Fire Safety Order (2005) and relevant industry standards, including BS5839 and BS5306. Fire risk was significantly reduced through improved housekeeping, appropriate storage of combustible materials, and strengthened electrical safety controls. Staff competency and preparedness increased markedly as a result of structured training, clearer evacuation procedures, and the introduction of regular drills. The establishment now benefits from accurate, auditable documentation supporting all aspects of fire safety maintenance and procedural activity. Clear signage and well-communicated procedures have enhanced awareness for both staff and customers. Overall, RiskFire’s work transformed the gift shop into a safer and fully compliant environment, delivering long-term improvements in fire safety management and operational resilience.