Fire safety is not something that you can take lightly. Fire can cause serious damage to your property, belongings, business and even your life. That’s why it is important to develop some good habits for fire safety management in the workplace and to practice them regularly.
Here are 10 good habits for fire safety management in the workplace:
- Install and maintain automatic detection. Fire alarms are essential devices that can alert you of a fire in its early stages. This allows occupants time to evacuate safely and for the fire service to attend to tackle the fire. A good fire risk assessment will offer advice on the required standard for an automatic fire detection and alarm system.
- Have a fire evacuation plan. You should have a clear and simple fire escape plan for your business, school or organisation and make sure everyone at risk knows it. You should identify at least two ways to get out of each area, and a safe meeting place outside. You should also practice your plan at least twice a year by means of carrying out a fire drill. You should update your fire evacuation plan if there are any changes in your property layout, occupancy, or use. It should be reviewed/revised at least on an annual basis.
- Keep fire extinguishers handy. Fire extinguishers can save lives. Although it is not a good idea to fight fires (in most circumstances), they can be vital for assisting you to evacuate a building if your escape route should be compromised. You can use them to put out small fires before they get out of control (if safe). You should have at least one fire extinguisher on each floor and know how to use it properly. You should also check the expiry date and pressure gauge of your fire extinguishers regularly and replace them when needed. A competent person should service the extinguishers annually and your fire risk assessment should specify where to locate fire extinguishers and which ones to have in place. Also, remember to train your team how to use fire extinguishers
- Keep your electrical systems and appliances in good working order. Ensure you have regular electrical safety inspections carried out, often known as a five-year fixed wiring inspection. Although, some buildings require statutory testing of electrical equipment at more regular frequencies. Consult your fire risk assessor to find out how often you should have your electrical installation tested. Avoid overloading electrical outlets. Electrical fires are one of the most common causes of fires. You should avoid overloading your electrical outlets, extension cords, as they can overheat and spark a fire. You should also unplug any appliances that are not in use and replace any damaged or frayed cords.
- Keep flammable items away from heat sources. Flammable items such as curtains, furniture, clothing, paper, and aerosol cans can easily catch fire if they are exposed to heat sources such as stoves, heaters, candles, and fireplaces. You should keep them at least 1m away from any heat source, and never leave them unattended. Some substances are highly flammable and should be kept away from heat and ignition sources at all times.
- Maintain equipment properly. Whether you run a petrol station, doctors’ surgery, school or hotel, you will have plant, machinery and appliances of one type or another. Equipment must be properly maintained, used, and operated.
- Beware the risk of arson. Keep your property secure, consider the installation of CCTV and provide external lighting. Keep flammable items away from the outside of the building and limit the risk of fire. Store matches and lighters safely. Matches and lighters can be dangerous if they fall into the wrong hands, especially children. You should store them in a secure place, out of reach and sight of children.
- Never leave cooking unattended. Cooking is another leading cause of fires. You should never leave your cooking unattended, even for a few minutes. You should also keep a close eye on your food and use a timer to remind you of it. Keep your kitchens in good condition, get them cleaned often. Also, make sure your extractors are on a service agreement. Keep fire extinguishers and fire blankets to hand, install emergency shut off switches and make sure fire exits are kept clear and accessible.
- Be careful with candles. Candles can create a cozy and romantic atmosphere in restaurants and hotels, spiritual moods for churches, but they can also start a fire if they are not used properly. You should never leave candles burning unattended, and always place them on a stable and heat-resistant surface. You should also keep them away from flammable items, children, and pets, and blow them out before you leave the room. Always extinguish them in plenty of time before leaving an area. Where possible, don’t use candles, use alternative battery powered devices for example.
- Inspect your chimney and fireplace. If you have a chimney and fireplace in your property, such as an open fire in a pub, you should inspect them regularly for any cracks or obstructions. You should also have them cleaned and serviced by a professional at least once a year. You should also use a metal mesh screen or glass doors to prevent sparks from flying out of the fireplace, and never burn trash, paper, or green wood in it.
By following these 10 good habits for fire safety management in the , you can reduce the risk of fire in your business and protect yourself and your colleagues. Remember, fire safety is everyone’s responsibility, and prevention is better than cure. Stay safe and stay alert!
JCH Safety can help you to keep your business, school or organisation, fire safe. We provide a range of health and safety services, and we are expert fire risk assessors. As chartered safety professionals and third-party accredited fire risk assessors, we can provide you with solid, expert guidance. We provide fire risk assessments across Coventry, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, Birmingham, and the West Midlands. We regularly carry out fire risk assessments for a variety of organisations including churches, hotels, pubs, industry and schools. As a small safety practice, you can be assured of friendly, personal, expert, and local service.
Our fire risk assessments are detailed and offer valuable guidance to clients. We offer ongoing fire safety support for a year after carrying out your fire risk assessment. Few fire risk assessors do this. However, for JCH Safety, we are committed to helping our clients to improve fire safety, not just be given a list of where they fall short!
In addition to fire risk assessments, we provide a wide range of online safety training. Why not check out our website for further details.
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