Our story

Your Trusted Fire Safety & Risk Management Partners

We protect lives, shield you from legal risks, and preserve your reputation, so you can concentrate on excelling in what you do best. Transforming fire and safety compliance from a checkbox exercise into a real difference— that’s our commitment.

Welcome to The Ethical Fire Safety and Risk Management Group Ltd. – a merger of two established leaders in fire safety and risk management: ROAR, led by Bernie Higgins and Risk and Safety Plus, founded by Malcolm Tullett. Together, we are stronger, offering a unified and comprehensive suite of fire safety and risk management solutions to businesses of all sizes, across sectors.

Our mission is clear: to help you safeguard your people, property, and reputation by ensuring compliance and implementing best-in-class fire and safety practices. We’re here to provide every client – from construction sites to schools, shops to warehouses with the tailored support and guidance they need to operate confidently and safely.

Our merger means an expanded range of services, greater expertise, and a unified team dedicated to delivering high-quality, cost-effective fire safety and risk management solutions.

We offer hands-on training, site inspections, risk assessments, and full compliance support – online or on-site – all tailored to your specific needs. No organization is too large or too small; we are committed to adding real value to every client relationship.

When you choose The Ethical Fire Safety and Risk Management Group Ltd., you’re choosing a partner with a proven track record and a passion for safety excellence.

We look forward to working with you to create a safer, more compliant and more secure environment for your business.

The TEFSRM Team

Mission

Our mission

TEFSRM was founded to deliver expert consultancy in fire safety, risk management and resilience, across various sectors. Our team combines decades of industry experience with innovative approaches, ensuring clients not only comply with regulatory standards but also cultivate safer, more resilient environments.

Our mission is to provide tailored, ethical solutions that safeguard people, property and the environment. We are dedicated to fostering a culture of safety, resilience and sustainability within every organisation we serve.

Values

Integrity: We act with transparency and honesty in all interactions, ensuring trust and reliability.

Excellence: We uphold the highest standards in consultancy, training, and support, striving for continuous

Collaboration: We work closely with clients to understand their unique needs, developing solutions that are both effective and practical.

Sustainability: We balance safety and resilience with environmental responsibility, promoting sustainable practices in all our operations.

These values guide our commitment to delivering exceptional service and fostering long-term partnerships with our clients.

Meet Our Team

Our teams

TEFSRM’s strength lies in its people – experienced professionals with a passion for fire safety, risk management, and ethical leadership. Each team member brings specialised expertise to ensure tailored, high-quality solutions for our clients.

Governance

Our governance team comprises experienced professionals dedicated to upholding TEFSRM's mission and values.

Chairman (founder)

Malcolm Tullett

Malcolm is a highly experienced former senior officer of the London Fire Brigade and a skilled consultant with a rich background in fire engineering, building control, and safety management. Known for his strategic insight and ability to navigate complex safety challenges, he has also excelled as a magistrate, elected councillor, author, and business owner. Malcolm’s commitment to excellence and ethical leadership has been vital in shaping TEFSRM’s reputation for innovative solutions and industry-leading standards.

Operations Director

Bernie Higgins

Bernie is an accomplished former Fire and Rescue Service Principal Officer and an experienced and versatile consultant with a proven history of crafting effective strategies across public, private, and non-profit sectors. Renowned for his exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to cultivate lasting partnerships, he excels in driving operational efficiency and enhancing client relationships. Bernie’s dedication to quality and innovation underscores his pivotal role in advancing TEFSRM’s mission and delivering effective solutions.

Company Secretary

Bianca Sumares

Bianca is a vital member of the TEFSRM team, bringing exceptional expertise and unwavering motivation to her role. She works closely with clients to ensure their needs are met with precision and care, fostering strong relationships built on trust and reliability. Bianca's dedication to excellence drives the smooth operation of the business, consistently exceeding expectations and setting a benchmark for high standards. Her proactive approach and commitment to going the extra mile make her an invaluable asset, ensuring TEFSRM operates efficiently and clients are consistently satisfied.

Delivery

Our delivery team consists of skilled professionals committed to providing exceptional service and ensuring TEFSRM's standards are reflected in every project.

Operations Director

Bernie Higgins

Site Safety Inspector

Ian Cunningham

Ian specialises in developing comprehensive risk management frameworks. With a focus on identifying potential threats and implementing effective mitigation measures, Ian helps organisations safeguard their assets and operations against disruptions.

Fire strategy advisor

Employment Law Advisor

Marie Dowsett

Marie is a commercially credible and highly respected HR advisor with extensive experience in generalist HR management. She is a perceptive problem solver who swiftly identifies inefficiencies and delivers viable, sustainable strategies to address them. Marie’s approach is pragmatic and tailored to the specific needs of each organisation, ensuring long-term success.

Testomonials

Our clients

We are proud to work with a wide range of clients from various sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, education, and construction. Here’s what some of them say:

Gary Culpan BSc (Hons) MCIOB General Manager
Balavil Estate

''Quite simply; Malcolm is a pain in the neck, but he’s my pain in the neck. I can rely on him to ensure, prior to commencement, everything is covered from a CDM and H&S perspective. By comparison to other PD’s he takes his responsibilities to a new level of professionalism. This has the consequence of allowing me, as client representative, to concentrate on all the other aspects of the contract, without having to worry about statutory compliance. Having 45 years of experience in the construction industry and knowing the importance of people you can trust. I have recommended Malcolm for several projects and will continue to do so.''

David Dewberry

''I first met Malcolm when he was engaged by a company, I used to work for to provide Health and Safety advice. Part of this was to provide several managers with the IOSH Managing Safely course, which I attended. He opened my eyes to the world of Health and Safety, not in the stuffy old fashioned, hard hat and clipboard do-as-you’re-told way but in a refreshingly modern, let’s do this together attitude. It was his exceptional personability and vast knowledge that started me on my own Health and Safety journey, 14 years later and I am a Chartered Member of IOSH (CMIOSH) working in the high-risk aviation industry and I can honestly say that I would not have got here without knowing Malcolm. Malcolm and RS+ have numerous strengths they can impart to their clients, always around the ethos of ‘Passionate about your safety and that’s not achieved by accident.!!’In conclusion, I would highly recommend.''

Jakki Moxham Group Director of Corporate Services
Network Housing Group Limited

''I have found working with Risk and Safety Plus’ on site representatives very user friendly. They ensured they met that pre-agreed deadlines and goals. I would recommend unreservedly the use of Risk and Safety Plus.''

5 reasons why so many businesses choose TEFSRM...
…and 5 reasons why you should too!

We're friendly

Being totally client-focused, we care about you and make you feel comfortable, understanding the importance of being clear, concise and transparent, especially when it concerns the protection of life and limb

We're different

As innovation overcomes most obstacles, we ensure that you get the right outcome, first time, every time. Just ask some of our clients, who come back to us, time and time again, while routinely recommending us to their contacts, so that they too can experience our positive and proactive (will do) attitude.

We're competent

We are highly skilled, knowledgeable and experienced and most of the team also possess additional ‘specialist’ competencies that enhance the overall service offering.

We're thorough

We conduct thorough reviews of your organization's risk management practices. Our impartial reports provide insights and recommendations, empowering you to make informed decisions that meet both statutory requirements and best practice fire and safety standards.

We're professional

We are proud to state that we are reliable and punctual, respectful and full of integrity, while being honest and open, so we ‘never’ cut corners and ‘always’ look after your people and assets, as if they are our own.

Our industry sectors

Sectors we serve

At TEFSRM, we provide expert fire safety and risk management services to private, public, and third-sector organisations. Our solutions are designed to meet the unique needs of diverse industries, supporting both large organisations and smaller operations. Below are some of the sectors we serve:

1. Construction and civil engineering

Fire safety risk assessments tailored to construction sites and civil engineering projects.
Compliance with Construction (Design and Management) Regulations.
Expertise in managing risks for high-stakes infrastructure and building projects

2. Property development and management

Bespoke safety strategies for residential and commercial properties.
Support for compliance in ongoing property operations.
Fire risk assessments for new developments and refurbishments.

3. Residential (flats and HMOs)

Fire safety planning for multi-occupancy properties.
Risk assessments tailored for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).
Support for landlords and property managers in meeting compliance standards.

4. Manufacturing

Safety measures for hazardous materials and industrial machinery.
Fire prevention strategies in factory and production settings.
Tailored training for manufacturing teams

5. Hospitality

Emergency planning for hotels, restaurants, and leisure facilities.
Comprehensive fire safety systems for guest and staff safety.
Ensuring compliance with health, safety, and fire codes.

6. Facilities management

Routine safety inspections for managed premises.
Customised emergency drills and evacuation plans.
Environmental safety strategies for sustainable operations.

7. Food industry

Fire safety audits for kitchens, storage facilities, and food plants.
Integration of risk management systems like HACCP.
Compliance with stringent safety and hygiene regulations.

8. Human resources and employment

Wellbeing programmes for employees across various industries.
Risk reduction strategies for workplace compliance.
Training to instil a culture of safety among staff.

9. Education

Safety systems for schools, colleges, and academic institutions.
Evacuation planning and fire drills for students and staff.
Risk management for on-site accommodation and facilities.

10. Retail

Fire safety and risk controls for retail outlets and shopping centres.
Solutions for safeguarding high-traffic environments.
Compliance with operational and regulatory standards.

11. Healthcare

Customised fire safety plans for hospitals, clinics, and care homes.
Risk reduction systems for sensitive environments like laboratories.
Compliance with healthcare-specific safety regulations.

12. Transport and logistics

Fire risk management for warehouses and distribution centres.
Emergency planning for transport hubs and depots.
Safety training for logistics operations and drivers.

13. Cultural and heritage sites

Tailored fire prevention strategies for museums, galleries, and historical sites.
Risk management for valuable and irreplaceable assets.
Compliance with conservation and heritage safety requirements.

14. Events and entertainment

Fire safety strategies for event venues, theatres, and arenas.
Emergency evacuation plans for large crowds.
Compliance support for temporary and permanent structures.

15. Energy and utilities

Risk management for power plants, renewable energy sites, and utility providers.
Fire safety assessments for high-risk environments.
Compliance with energy sector safety standards.

16. Agriculture, vineyards, and wineries

Risk assessments for farms, storage facilities, and agricultural machinery.
Fire safety solutions for vineyards and wineries.
Support for compliance with environmental safety regulations.

At TEFSRM, we are proud to support organisations of all sizes, providing comprehensive fire safety and risk management services across every sector. Whether you're in the private, public, or third sector, our tailored solutions ensure your safety and compliance needs are met with excellence.

Careers (associates and internships)

Our careers opportunites

At TEFSRM, we are dedicated to nurturing talent and offering rewarding opportunities for individuals passionate about fire safety and/or risk management. Our recruitment strategy focuses on developing and retaining ethical, skilled professionals through three distinct pathways.

These pathways represent the primary routes to join our team in full-time roles. However, for those who prefer flexibility, associates are welcome to remain in that capacity for as long as they wish—many of our staff have built successful, fulfilling careers as long-term associates.

Pathways

1. Associate positions

Associates operate under a contract for services, sometimes referred to as limb (b) workers. In this role, you will:

Deliver bespoke fire safety and risk management assessments for clients.
Support TEFSRM’s divisions with regulatory compliance projects.
Develop and implement tailored strategies to address diverse client needs.
Provide expert training and guidance to foster proactive safety cultures.

2. Internship programmes

Our internships are voluntary learning opportunities under an internship agreement, designed to assist staff and provide on-the-job experience. These positions are unpaid, lasting up to six months, with reimbursement for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses. Interns are not classified as workers or employees and therefore are not entitled to the National Minimum Wage. During the internship, you will:

Shadow experienced professionals and learn about the industry.
Participate in meaningful projects while developing practical skills.
Build a foundation for potential future roles within TEFSRM.

3. Peripatetic employment

Peripatetic workers are employed on a zero-hours contract of employment, sometimes referred to as limb (a) workers. In this flexible role, you will:

Be paid hourly, taxed as an employee.
Work under the company’s professional indemnity insurance.
Gain valuable experience while contributing to TEFSRM’s projects.

What you’ll do

Regardless of your chosen pathway, your work with TEFSRM will involve:

Conducting comprehensive fire safety and risk management assessments.
Developing and implementing bespoke strategies to address client needs.
Providing expert guidance on regulatory compliance and best practices.
Delivering training sessions and fostering a proactive safety culture.
Collaborating closely with team members to ensure effective project delivery.

What we’re looking for

All applicants should demonstrate:

A Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND), or degree in a relevant field.
A full UK driving licence, preferably without recent endorsements.
A team-oriented approach with strong collaboration and communication skills.
A commitment to ethical practices aligned with the Nolan Principles (selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership).
A proven willingness to care for the well-being of workers and the public.

For internships, we welcome individuals keen to develop their understanding of fire safety and/or risk management and contribute to meaningful projects while supporting our team.

Why join TEFSRM?

At TEFSRM, we offer:

Ethical opportunities: Work in an organisation committed to integrity and sustainability, guided by the Nolan Principles.
Professional growth: Gain invaluable experience through hands-on projects and tailored training programmes.
Flexibility: Choose a pathway that aligns with your professional goals, whether as a long-term associate, peripatetic employee, or intern.

Application process

To apply for one of these career opportunities, please email the following to careers@tefsrm.com:

Your current CV detailing qualifications and experience.
A cover letter explaining your interest in TEFSRM and your preferred pathway.
Contact details for two professional references.

Whether you’re seeking a full-time position, flexible associate work, or an internship, TEFSRM offers meaningful career opportunities that make a difference in fire safety and/or risk management. Join us in safeguarding organisations across the private, public, and third sectors.

Our policies

Our policy statements

TEFSRM Policy Statements

The Ethical Fire Safety and Risk Management (TEFSRM) Group Limited

Effective Date: 02 January 2025

All policy statements below summarise TEFSRM’s approach to key governance, compliance and ethical practices. Full policy documents for each area are available upon request. Each full policy document is jointly signed by:

Bianca Sumares (Company Secretary)
Bernie Higgins (Operations Director)

Accessibility Statement

TEFSRM is committed to ensuring that its website and services are accessible to all users, regardless of ability or technical knowledge.