The festive season is a time for celebration, but it also brings extra fire risks in the workplace. From sparkling lights and Christmas decorations to busy storerooms and additional staff, the holiday period can introduce hazards that business owners need to manage carefully.
Taking the time to review your workplace fire safety measures helps protect your premises, employees and customers remain safe, giving you peace of mind throughout the season.
Who Is Responsible for Fire Safety in the Workplace?
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the person with overall responsibility for fire safety is referred to as the “responsible person.” This is typically whoever manages the building and may include:
- The building owner or landlord
- The employer
- A facilities or building manager
The Responsible Person(s) must ensure that an up-to-date fire risk assessment is in place, that all hazards are managed effectively, and that all staff can evacuate safely in the event of a fire. This duty is particularly important during the festive season, when decorations, extra stock and seasonal lighting can create additional fire hazards.
Find out more about the roles and responsibilities for fire safety in the workplace.
Decorating Your Workplace Safely This Christmas
Decorations create a festive atmosphere, but they can also increase fire risk if not used carefully.
Decoration Safety Tips
- Avoid flammable decorations such as paper, cotton wool or cardboard.
- Keep decorations away from heat sources, heaters and electrical equipment.
- Make sure lights and garlands don’t obscure fire alarms, signage or sprinklers.
Christmas Tree Safety Tips
- Position at least 3 feet away from heat sources such as radiators or fireplaces.
- Keep real trees well-watered as dry trees are highly flammable.
- Dispose if they start to dry out.
- Never block fire exits, escape routes or fire doors.
Electrical Safety for the Festive Season
Faulty or overloaded electrical equipment is the leading cause of workplace fires.
To reduce risk:
- Only use electrical decorations that meet British or European safety standards..
- Avoid overloading plug sockets or extension leads.
- Check all cables for damage before use.
- Turn off lights and decorations at the end of each day.
Following these precautions helps prevent electrical fires and ensures a safe working environment.
Check Your Fire Safety Equipment
Even with precautions in place, fires can still occur. It’s essential that all fire safety equipment is in good working order:
- Check fire extinguishers and fire blankets for accessibility and condition.
- Test fire alarms and replace batteries if needed.
- Consider professional fire alarm servicing for optimum safety.
Maintaining functional equipment allows fires to be detected early and tackled safely if appropriate.
Manage Extra Stock and Keep Escape Routes Clear
Many businesses store extra stock during the festive season. Improper storage can increase fire risk and block escape routes.
- Keep goods away from heat sources, smoke detectors and sprinklers.
- Never block corridors, stairwells or fire doors.
- Fire doors must remain closed unless fitted with an approved automatic release mechanism.
Train Your Team on Fire Safety Procedures
Temporary or seasonal staff may join your team over the holidays. All employees should:
- Know how to raise the fire alarm.
- Understand the location of escape routes and assembly points.
- Be confident in evacuation procedures.
Running a refresher session before the busy period is recommended to help your team stay prepared and respond effectively in an emergency.
Preparing Your Business for Christmas Shutdown
If your business will be closed over Christmas and New Year, it’s important to take simple steps to reduce the risk of a fire.
Before finishing up for the festive break, take time to complete your closedown routine properly.
- Switch off and unplug all electrical items, including portable heaters, computers and Christmas decorations.
- Check that all fire doors are properly closed.
- Make sure your fire alarms and detection systems are active.
How we can help
A few extra precautions can make all the difference this festive season, helping to keep your workplace safe as you head into the new year.
If you have any concerns about fire safety or would like expert advice on our range of passive fire protection products, get in touch with our technical team at [email protected] or call 02920 857 959.
