It may seem unlikely that your workplace will be the victim of a fire, but sadly it is a common occurrence that every business should be prepared for as much as possible to avoid injury, loss of life and costly damage to property and operations.
Below, we’ve outlined the main ways fire safety can be implemented and upheld in the workplace.
1. Ensure good housekeeping at all times
If your workplace is not kept tidy and clutter free, the fire load of that area or building increases, meaning there are more items that can catch and fuel a fire. Any waste should be removed regularly before there is a chance for it to build up and any flammable materials should be stored away safely and appropriately.
2. Keep fire exits and escape routes clear and unobstructed
All fire exits and routes to outside the building or workplace should be unobstructed at all times.
As mentioned above, keeping on top of waste and clutter helps to ensure no exits are blocked and that corridors, fire exits and stairwells are accessible in the event of a fire.
Fire exits should also be clearly marked with fire exit signage and lighting so that individuals can see a safe route to exit the building.
3. Have the correct fire equipment on hand
Having the correct fire safety equipment can reduce the chance of a fire occurring, alert individuals to the presence of a fire and also work to put the fire out before it spreads further.
Ensure your workplace has the appropriate smoke alarms and fire prevention systems in place such as fire extinguishers which are maintained and checked regularly.
4. Fire safety risk assessments
Fire hazards throughout the workplace should be identified through regular fire risk assessments and measures should be implemented in order to mitigate that risk as much as possible.
Learn how to carry out a fire risk assessment here.
5. Appoint fire wardens
There should be at least one member of staff that is responsible for the fire safety procedures of your workplace.
The appointed individual should undergo fire warden training and they will be responsible for the evacuation of the building in the event of a fire and ensure there’s no one left in the building.
6. Train employees in fire safety
Even though there should be appointed members of staff that are fire wardens, all employees and individuals in the workplace should be trained on the fire safety procedures in place. They should know what to do in the event of a fire through regular fire drills and should be clear on who the fire wardens are.
7. Avoid accidental fires
Avert easily avoidable and accidental fires by addressing simple things like making sure heaters can’t be knocked over, plug sockets aren’t overloaded and any faulty wiring is fixed.
How We Can Help
If you need any advice on fire safety in your workplace or any products you think might be needed to render your workplace fire safe then please do get in touch with our Customer Care team at [email protected] or 02920 857 959.
