When it comes to fire safety compliance, keeping accurate records is just as important as having the right equipment in place. That’s where a fire safety log book comes in. This simple yet vital tool helps you keep track of inspections, maintenance, and safety checks—ensuring your business complies with regulations and demonstrates a clear commitment to protecting staff and visitors.
What is a Fire Log Book?
A fire log book is a dedicated record that documents all fire safety checks, inspections, and procedures carried out on your premises. It provides a clear, tangible record that your equipment and systems are properly maintained and that you are meeting your legal obligations.
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO), fire safety log books should be available to any fire officer, inspector, or insurer who reviews your premises.
What Should Be Recorded in a Fire Safety Log Book?
Your fire log book should contain detailed records of all essential fire safety measures, including:
- Escape routes – regular visual checks and condition notes.
- Fire alarms, emergency lighting, and warning systems – routine testing, results, and any faults found.
- Firefighting equipment – inspections and servicing records for extinguishers, sprinklers, dry risers, etc.
- Evacuation drills – dates, procedures, and observations (should be carried out at least once a year).
Keeping these records up to date ensures faults are highlighted quickly, equipment remains in working order, and corrective action is taken without delay.
Do You Need a Fire Log Book?
Yes – if you are responsible for a business or premises, a fire safety log book is strongly recommended. Inspecting bodies such as local councils, the fire service, or insurance companies may request to see your records at any time.
By maintaining a fire log book, you provide tangible evidence that your fire safety measures are in place and properly managed. This not only helps with compliance but also demonstrates that you are taking the necessary steps to protect people on your premises.
Where Should a Fire Log Book Be Kept?
The best place to store your fire log book is in a secure but accessible document holder or cabinet. Ideally, it should be located:
- By the main exit
- Near the fire alarm panel
- At the main reception
- In another visible, easy-to-access location
This ensures it’s available during an inspection or in the event of an emergency, but also safe from being misplaced or stolen.
Fire Log Book Storage: Why Use a Document Cabinet?
To keep your fire records safe and easy to find, a fire document cabinet is the best solution. For example, the Vigil Document Cabinet is one of the bestsellers in the Vigil range, designed specifically for secure log book storage.
Key features include:
- Solid and durable construction – built to last.
- Key storage – includes space for storing vital keys.
- Binder capacity – plenty of room for a ring binder containing all your fire safety records.
Note: while this cabinet is robust, it is not fireproof. For full fireproof storage, additional solutions would be required.
Why Every Business Needs a Fire Log Book
Maintaining a fire log book is not just about ticking a box – it’s a legal requirement and a critical step in keeping your premises safe. By recording all fire safety measures in one place, you can:
- Highlight and correct faults quickly.
- Ensure equipment is tested and serviced on time.
- Provide proof of compliance during inspections.
- Protect staff, visitors, and assets.
If you want to see more of the Vigil range of log books and storage options, watch the video below!
