Inspection process

As has been the case for a number of years, we use the Scottish Fire and Rescue Framework, as a guide to how we measure the effectiveness of the Service. The Framework was last revised in 2022 and the current edition has influenced our approach to inspection.

The Framework defines priorities for the Service covering the following specific areas.

• Prevention
• Response
• Innovation and Modernisation
• Climate Change
• Effective Governance and Performance
• People
• Partnership

The Chief Inspector gives as much notice of an inspection as is reasonably practicable to the SFRS. From time to time the Inspectorate may carry out unannounced visits as part of an inspection programme. The Inspectorate has an agreed communication and feedback protocol with the SFRS which sets out how we take feedback into consideration.

When we conduct our inspection activity, the SFRS must provide us with such assistance and co-operation as we may require to carry out our functions, and must comply with any reasonable request that we make. When we publish a report, the SFRS must have regard to the findings and take such measures, if any, as it thinks fit.

Annual inspection plan 2026 to 2027