PAS 9980 is an industry standard for assessing fire risk and informing the completion of both a Fire Risk Assessment of External Walls and, where required, an EWS1 rating. It was introduced to address the need for a more comprehensive and consistent approach to fire risk assessment, particularly in relation to external wall construction.

PAS 9980 allows for a fire safety risk assessment of all aspects of a building and how they affect each other. This includes materials, their location and extent, and the risks they pose when considered together. The assessment also considers building context, including height, layout and use, as these factors influence how a fire may develop and how occupants are able to escape in the event of a fire. Taken together, these elements support an understanding of fire risk based on the building as a whole rather than individual components.

Professional judgement plays a key role in PAS 9980 assessments. Fire risk assessment, particularly for higher risk and high-rise buildings, involves many differing and interrelated factors, meaning the process cannot be reduced to a simple checklist. PAS 9980 provides a framework within which competent professionals assess and interpret risk, informed by the specific characteristics of the building.

PAS 9980 also allows the building make-up and design to be reviewed against set criteria as part of the fire risk assessment, supporting informed decision making. In some cases, mitigation measures may be appropriate rather than full remediation. Changes to the escape strategy, such as a new or upgraded fire alarm system, or the installation of a fire suppression system, can help manage fire risks and may reduce the extent of remediation required.

Following a PAS 9980 assessment, a building owner should be able to demonstrate the fire risks posed by the building and the remediation or mitigation measures required to make the building safe for occupation. A well-reasoned outcome provides a clear and reasoned understanding of the building’s fire risks and any recommendations, set against a professionally considered review of fire risk.

How FRC can help

FRC carries out Fire Risk Assessments of External Walls in line with PAS 9980, supporting building owners and duty holders in understanding external wall fire risk and, where required, EWS1 ratings.

Our services include:

  • PAS 9980 assessments and FRAEW reporting
  • Assessment of building materials, location and extent as part of fire risk assessment
  • Review of building context including height, layout and use
  • Identification of fire risks associated with external wall systems
  • Consideration of mitigation and remediation measures
  • Clear documentation of findings and recommendations