Creating a safe work environment…

…is crucial for both employees and employers, and one of the most significant threats that workplaces face is a fire.

The building’s Responsible Person has a legal duty to arrange a fire risk assessment, and obviously a professional fire alarm system should be in place. However, there are steps every employee can take to help prevent a fire breaking out, and to be prepared should one occur.

In this article, we will list some essential fire safety tips to keep your workplace and employees protected.

Maintain Your Fire Detection Systems

Smoke alarms should be tested weekly to ensure they are in working order, while your fire alarm system should be serviced by a competent provider every six months.

Monitor Your Electrical Equipment

Ensure electrical appliances are switched off at the end of the day to avoid overheating. Always stop using and report any equipment that develops an electrical fault, and make sure you don’t overload plug sockets or adaptors.

Accessible Fire Safety Equipment

Make sure your fire extinguishers, fire blankets etc are all within easy reach. It is also important to check there is nothing blocking your smoke detectors or sprinklers, and always check there is nothing obstructing the fire escape.

Keep A Tidy Environment

Flammable materials such as paper or cardboard can help a fire spread, so ensure clutter is kept to a minimum and these materials are stored away tidily. Boxes and old furniture can easily block an exit or fire equipment, and flammable liquids or chemicals always pose the risk of ignition if not stored safely, so a tidy environment is a crucial for fire safety.

Educate Your Employees

Make sure your employees know how to react in the event of a fire by holding regular training and fire drills. Teaching staff how to use a fire extinguisher, where the escape routes are located, and what the correct evacuation procedure is, can make a huge difference in an emergency situation.

Kitchen Safety

There are many fire hazards within kitchens, from electrical appliances, to gas hobs, to flammable liquids. Always ensure your staff are trained on the correct usage of all equipment, and make sure the appropriate fire safety equipment is to hand.

By following our workplace fire safety tips, you not only enhance the safety and wellbeing of your team, but also ensure the continuity of your business operations.