The following information has been compiled to shed light on the significant fire risks UK businesses face. All data was sourced from the UK’s Fire and Rescue Services and is the most up-to-date data available at the time of publishing. 

Key workplace fire statistics

There were 7,000 workplace fires in 2023/24

The number of workplace fires has fallen by 25% in the past 10 years

15% of workplace fires are started deliberately

A quarter of all workplace fires happen at industrial premesis

Faulty electrical equipment is the biggest cause of workplace fires

Workplace fires in the UK 

Workplace fires remain a significant threat to UK businesses. In 2023/24, there were approximately 7,000 workplace fires recorded, marking a significant decline of 25% over the past decade. This downward trend, however positive, should not lull businesses into complacency as fire remains a significant risk for all businesses, regardless of size or industry.

Year Total workplace fires
2014/15 9,458
2015/16 9,347
2016/17 9,142
2017/18 9,000
2018/19 8,623
2019/20 8,133
2020/21 6,134
2021/22 7,345
2022/23 7,439
2023/24 7,033

Workplace fires in England in the past 10 years

Causes of workplace fires

The leading cause of workplace fires in the UK is faulty or misused electrical equipment, accounting for almost a fifth (19%) of incidents. This encompasses a range of causes, with electrical wiring, cabling, and plugs being the main culprits. Damaged or worn-out wires, overloaded circuits, and improper use of extension cords can all lead to overheating, sparking, and ultimately, a fire.

Cause of Fire Percentage of fires
Electrical distribution 19%
Cooking appliances 15%
Smoking related materials 7%
Other domestic style appliance 6%
Electric lighting 5%
Space heating appliances 3%
Blowlamps, welding and cutting equipment 2%
Matches and Candles 2%
Office equipment 1%
Unspecified / Other 40%

Leading causes of workplace fires in the UK

Businesses most at risk of fire

1. Industrial

Just under a quarter (24%) of all workplace fires occur at industrial premises, making it the most at-risk type of property. This includes manufacturing facilities, mines and quarries, vehicle repair workshops, warehouses, storage facilities and other industrial buildings.

2. Food and drink

Food drink premises such as commercial kitchens, restaurants, cafes, and takeaway food outlets account for 19% of all workplace fires.

3. Retail

Shops, supermarkets, department stores, shopping centres, and other retail establishments make up 17% of all workplace fires.

Building type Total fires Percentage of total fires
Industrial premises 1,713 24%
Food and drink premises 1,330 19%
Retail premises 1,197 17%
Hotels, boarding houses, hostels etc. 587 8%
Hospitals and medical care 500 7%
Agricultural premises 476 7%
Education premises 451 6%
Entertainment, culture and sport 392 6%
Offices and call centres 387 6%
Total 7,033

Workplace fires in England in 2023/24 by building type

UK businesses can improve fire safety by:

  • Conducting regular fire risk assessments
  • Ensuring proper fire alarm and detection systems
  • Providing adequate fire extinguishers
  • Developing and practicing evacuation plans
  • Providing fire safety training

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