So, how do you prevent fires in the workplace?

Workplace fires are one of the greatest threats to productivity, revenue, and life that any business faces. One careless action can see equipment, assets, and premises destroyed. Particularly in susceptible sectors, such as construction and manufacturing. But what a lot of people don’t realise is that most workplace fires are easily preventable. It’s just about taking the right precautions.

9 Steps to Prevent Fires in the Workplace

  1. Fire Risk Assessment

According to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, if you operate a business within the UK, you are legally obliged to conduct a fire risk assessment on a regular basis. And this is your first step towards preventing workplace fires. Because it provides you with an overview of every potential hazard within your business.

  1. Fire alarms

One of the main reasons for workplace fires to escalate catastrophically is a lack of functioning fire alarms. Fire alarms should be professionally fitted, tested, and maintained to ensure optimum protection.

  1. Fire extinguishers

Understanding what type of fire extinguisher you need to put where is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of fires in the workplace.

  1. Appliance and machinery testing and maintenance

Electronic equipment and machinery are a common cause of workplace fires. Portable appliance testing (PAT) helps to ensure that all of your electronic equipment is safe to use and meets the required safety standards. While machinery maintenance – whether excavators and forklifts, or pieces of manufacturing machinery – can help you spot potential issues before they become a catalyst.

Appliance testing

  1. Good housekeeping

Fires need fuel. If you keep your workplace tidy and clutter-free, it not only takes longer for fires to spread, but there are fewer potential ignition points, and it provides a safer working environment.

  1. Fire Doors

Fire doors are integral to the infrastructure of any building. With their use, you can help prevent the spread of fires and shield important paths of evacuation. That’s why it’s really important to keep them clear and closed at all times.

  1. Fire warden training

Every business should have at least one trained fire warden to implement and monitor fire safety.

Fire Warden And Fire Marshall

  1. Sprinkler systems

There are different types of sprinkler systems for different types of businesses. But having a sprinkler system in place can help to minimise the damage of any potential fire scenario.

  1. Emergency Lighting and signage

Some fires simply can’t be prevented. And that’s where emergency lighting and fire signage are vital. Providing essential wayfinding tools in the worst of conditions.

No business is immune to the threat of workplace fires. But having the right detection and prevention measures in place has the potential to make a dramatic difference to the outcome, should a fire break out.

If you need support finding the right equipment to prevent fires in your workplace, please get in touch with 1st Class Fire Protection today either on 01603 742741 or request a call back with our expert team.