Fire prevention in the workplace is one of those topics that people easily disregard and postpone. That’s because people feel fires are not something that would happen anytime soon. Unfortunately, without adequate planning and training, the effects of fires could be severe. If you are not careful, you could put the lives of your workers and the future of your business at risk.
What can you do to reduce the risk of fire at your work? In this blog, we go over the top fire prevention tips for businesses. From eliminating fire hazards to proper employee training to having an evacuation plan, there are many things a company and its employees can do to limit the risks of fire.
Eliminate Office Fire Hazards
Office appliances, machines, power sockets, cords, cables, etc., are potential fire hazards if you do not pay attention. Also, you need to pay attention to your kitchen area because most office fires start there. To be safe, ensure that you check your office for common fire traps by following these tips:
- Ensure that all office machines and appliances are always in good condition. Fix damaged or old ones immediately.
- Do not overload power outlets, strips, and circuits. For instance, if you use space heaters or other energy-demanding appliances, do not plug them into power strips. Ideally, they should be connected to grounded outlets and not with other plugs.
- Always keep combustible objects far away from electrical equipment, especially those that generate heat. For instance, your trash or recycling cans should be far away from electric appliances.
- Ensure that the kitchen area and the equipment there are always clean, dry, and well-ventilated, and especially clean of oil and dust.
- Always keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in a place where everyone can access it. More importantly, ensure that everyone in the office knows how to use it properly.
- Remember to unplug all appliances after use, especially in the kitchen area.
- Ensure that there are no obstacles to fire exits.
Prepare Ahead for Fire Emergencies with Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors are crucial for any business because they are the first line of defense in fire emergencies. Smoke detectors along with the rest of the fire alarm system help you and your staff discover fires before they spread, where they can cause significant damage or become uncontrollable. The following are some tips to help you in this regard:
- Invest in the best smoke detector for all rooms and offices on your business premises.
- Ensure that you inspect all smoke detectors and sprinkler systems at least once every month. After inspecting, ensure that you document correctly to know what has been inspected and what you need to fix.
- Under no circumstances should you disable a smoke detector or any other device that is part of the fire alarm system.
Create an Evacuation Plan
An evacuation plan is a guide that helps direct employees on what to do in case of an emergency. You need to have a solid plan on the ground so that your employees don’t become distraught. Always remember, the best way to prevent fire in the workplace is to prepare ahead. The following are some tips that can help you get prepared:
- Your evacuation plan should use as many routes as possible. That way, if a part of the building is affected by the fire or blocked, your employees will have other alternative routes to exit the building.
- Choose a muster point that is at a safe distance from your building. Assign someone to direct all staff to that area in case of a fire. Such staff members should also try to conduct a headcount to ascertain that all employees are accounted for.
- Your evacuation plan must be workable for all staff members regardless of their sex, age, or physical condition.
- Paste the exit routes and maps in visible areas of your workplace. Make sure everyone can see it.
- Make sure all your workers have access to emergency numbers.
- Practice this plan by having office drills as many times as you can.
Contact the Fire & Security Professionals at Koorsen
Since 1946, Koorsen Fire & Security has been helping to protect and secure businesses of all sizes. Whether your business needs an annual inspection, repairs, or a whole new fire sprinklers system designed and installed; the experts at Koorsen can help. With over 24 branches in 5 states throughout the Midwest and South, we’re probably right down the road from your business. Give us a call today for all of your fire protection needs.
