Every workplace in New Zealand, which could include factory, warehouse, production facility, school, no matter the size or environment, carries some level of fire risk. This could be from electrical equipment in offices, factories, warehouses and classrooms to flammable materials in workshops, science labs, and storerooms, the potential for a fire to occur—and the consequences if it does—can be serious. While training staff and students to respond is essential, the foundation of good fire safety lies in understanding your risks and planning ahead.

This guide explains what a fire risk assessment involves, how to develop an effective emergency evacuation plan, and where ACT Safety’s training fits into the picture.

Why Fire Risk Assessments Matter

Fires don’t just cause property damage—they disrupt lives, harm people, and can lead to long-term reputational and financial loss. According to Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ), most fires are preventable, with common causes being faulty wiring, overheating equipment, poor housekeeping, or improper storage of chemicals.

For schools, the risks can also include crowded evacuation routes, combustible teaching materials, or the presence of vulnerable groups such as young children or students with mobility challenges.

A fire risk assessment is about identifying hazards before they become emergencies. By doing so, you not only protect staff and students but also ensure compliance with obligations under New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA).

How to Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment

A fire risk assessment doesn’t need to be complicated, but it must be systematic. The process typically involves four steps:

• Identify potential fire hazards – Look for ignition sources (heaters, cooking appliances, welding gear, lab Bunsen burners), fuel sources (paper, packaging, chemicals), and oxygen supplies (ventilation, gas cylinders).
• Evaluate who could be at risk – Consider staff, visitors, contractors, students, and especially vulnerable people such as the elderly, young children, or those with disabilities.
• Assess likelihood and impact – Work out how likely each hazard is to start a fire, and how serious the consequences would be.
• Implement controls – Examples include improving housekeeping, installing fire-resistant storage, regular electrical testing, and ensuring extinguishers are available and serviced.

Building an Emergency Evacuation Plan

Once risks are identified, the next step is planning how to respond. Under the Fire Safety and Evacuation of Buildings Regulations 2006, many NZ workplaces and schools are legally required to have an approved evacuation scheme.

A good plan should cover:

• Clear evacuation routes with signage and lighting
• Assembly points a safe distance from the building
• Designated roles such as Fire Wardens and teachers to assist with evacuations
• Procedures for vulnerable persons (e.g. mobility impaired staff or students)
• Regular trial evacuations (at least every six months for approved schemes, often more frequent in schools)

Legal Obligations for NZ Workplaces & Schools

Employers (PCBUs under HSWA) and Boards of Trustees must:

• Provide and maintain safe systems of work and learning.
• Ensure staff (and in schools, students) are trained in fire safety and emergency procedures.
• Prepare and implement an evacuation plan where required by FENZ.

Failure to comply can lead to enforcement action by WorkSafe NZ or FENZ, including fines. Beyond compliance, strong fire safety planning demonstrates to staff, students, and parents that you take their wellbeing seriously.

How ACT Safety Can Help

Once risks are assessed and an evacuation plan is in place, training ensures people know how to respond in practice. ACT Safety offers a range of fire and emergency training courses including:

• Fire Warden Training (NZQA 18408) – equips designated wardens and staff with the knowledge and confidence to manage evacuations.
• Fire Extinguisher Training (NZQA 3271 & 4647) – hands-on training in using extinguishers safely and effectively.
• Custom onsite training – tailored sessions for workplaces and schools, based on your specific risks and evacuation scheme.

Training and planning go hand-in-hand: one without the other leaves gaps in your safety measures.

Final Thoughts

Fire risk assessments and emergency planning are not just compliance exercises—they’re essential tools for protecting people and property. By identifying hazards, preparing a clear evacuation plan, and ensuring your staff (and in schools, teachers and students) are trained, you’ll create a safer and more resilient environment.

ACT Safety can support your organisation every step of the way, from equipping Fire Wardens to delivering extinguisher training. Whether you’re managing an office, a warehouse, or a school, a safer environment starts with preparation.