Top 5 Ways to Prevent Fire in the Workplace

Every year fires in business facilities injure and kill hundreds of people, and costs businesses several thousand pounds. However, today there are solutions to make the workplace safer. We now have fire-resistant building materials, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems. Yet, despite all of these advances in technology we still have a significant risk of fire where we work.

Unfortunately, most fires are caused by a lack of adequate training or carelessness.

The best way to fight fires is to prevent them from starting in the first place. Following proper safety procedures in the office or workplace will help avoid the sometimes tragic circumstances of a fire. You can help to prevent fires by learning to recognise potential fire hazards and correct issues before a fire can start.

1 – Understand the Human Impact
Fire often has a significant human element to it also, with many fires being started as a result of human error, misjudgment or negligence. Therefore, your fire risk assessment should acknowledge security requirements to prevent arson, adequate facilities in smoking areas and also that any combustible materials are safely stored away from ignition sources. Reducing office clutter and paperwork with appropriate office cupboards and storage can also help to reduce the risk of fire.

2 – Electrical Safety
Many office fires often start as a result of an electrical malfunction or misuse. Ensuring your electrical system is safe and maintained to provide maximum safety is a major step in preventing office fires. Do not overload electrical outlets. Make sure you have a sufficient number of outlets and have extra sockets professionally installed if needed. By having an adequate number of power sockets, you will also minimise the use of extension cords and reduce the chance of fire.

3 – Fire Risk Assessments
Conducting a proper fire risk assessment is the first step in ensuring your fire safety provision is adequate. A fire risk assessment will identify any potential causes of fire, such as aged wiring, hazardous chemicals, cooking areas and heating appliances.

4 – Prepare for any Eventuality
Should a fire occur, loss of valuable data or assets will be one of the most damaging effects on your business. Take precautions against this by locking valuable items away within a fireproof safe. Not only will this protect against fire, but potentially save those same assets against potential burglary.

5 – Fire Safety Training
People move on. It’s a fact of working life, and they take their knowledge with them. Ensure that you have regular sessions where you educate your staff on fire prevention and that you maintain any lost knowledge with additional training. Run regular fire evacuation practices and have fire wardens trained and in place. It doesn’t matter how large or small your business is, a good fire warden is essential.

Fire safety is an important part of any business and should never be taken lightly. By developing and maintaining a fire safety plan, your business and more importantly, your staff will be safer from the devastating effects of fire.