Fire safety should be on the top of everyone’s minds, including business owners. Whether you own an office space, a retail outlet, coffee shop, bakery or some other property you should always ensure to keep your workplace fire safe.
We have put together some simple tips on just how you can create a safe environment for your business –
- Equip your premises with fire safety equipment
Prevention is better than the cure. Having the right prevention equipment is what will help you be prepared in the event of an emergency.
Fire fighting equipment such as fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, sprinkler systems and fire detection systems should be placed strategically throughout the premises. Ensure that you have the right type of fire extinguisher i.e. see if it is the right type of fire extinguisher for a fire that could potentially get started on your premises.
- Maintenance of fire safety equipment
Fire safety equipment should be inspected regularly. Have formal inspections when necessary and maintain the equipment independently in between. Any equipment that is not functioning as it should be repaired and/or replaced immediately. Schedule these inspections and set reminders if you have to!
- Train your employees
Train your employees on the importance of following safety procedures so that they don’t behave in a negligent manner that could lead to a fire getting started. Also, ensure that your employees know how to use fire safety equipment like fire extinguishers and how they should deal with the different types of fires that may occur.
- Have an evacuation plan
All businesses should have an emergency evacuation plan in place and everyone within the organisation should be made aware of it. Having such a plan in place will ensure that all employees, and any other persons present on the premises, can exit the building safely in the event of a fire. Prepare evacuation maps and post them near staircases and hand them out to employees as well for them to keep. Fire safety signs are also necessary as they display key information such as evacuation procedures, highlight danger areas, and should indicate where fire fighting equipment can be found including instructions for how to and how not to use them.
- Conduct fire drills
Conducting routine fire drills will help prepare your employees for an emergency. Doing this a few times a year will ensure that they know what to do in the event of an emergency and will allow them to conduct themselves in a calm manner.
- Eliminate electrical hazards
One of the most common causes of workplace fires is electrical faults. Faulty sockets and outlets, overloading extension leads, outdated wiring and old or faulty appliances are just some of the causes of electrical fires. To mitigate the risks of such fires, carry out the necessary repairs and ask employees to be aware of any such faults and notify the right person so the same can be managed.
- Practise good housekeeping
The workplace should be clutter free and free of hazardous material that is flammable. This will not only reduce the risk of fire but also make emergency equipment easier to access and also keep escape routes clear.
- Have designated smoking areas
Smoking should only be allowed in specific areas of the building which are free of hazardous/flammable material. Cigars/cigarettes should also only be extinguished in approved containers.
Fire safety in the workplace is of utmost importance. It not only helps to reduce the risk of fire but also safeguards employees and others that may be present. Follow these tips to ensure your employees and premises remain fire safe!
If you have any questions or queries about how to keep your premises safe from a fire then contact us today and we can help you keep your business Fire Safe
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