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The festive season is upon us and all across the world, Christmas trees and decorations are being dusted off to deck the halls.
But while the twinkling lights and glittery baubles look beautiful, they can be a great hazard if you’re not careful.
Here we identify the risks with putting up decorations and having them on display in your workplace. Take the time to consider when, where and how and ensure the safety of your staff and your workplace this Christmas.
Decking the halls
Use an appropriate step ladder to put up your decorations and always check the condition of the ladder before standing on it. Do not use a damaged step ladder. Never cut corners by standing on furniture.
Ensure the step ladder is set up correctly and all four feet are on the ground before use. Consider where you place it so that it isn’t knocked while in use.
Maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times.
If you have an artificial tree, make sure it’s labelled as “fire resistant” and that it isn’t blocking any doorways or escape routes from the building.
Check any lights before you use them, ensuring all bulbs are working and that wires are in good condition.
If you want to use lights outside, check all labels to be sure that they’re appropriate for outdoor use and follow instructions for holding them in place.
Choose your decorations wisely
Only use non-combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree.
Consider the risk of fire hazards such as homemade decorations made of light tissue paper, wood or cardboard which would burn easily. Keep decorations away from candles, fireplaces, and heaters.
Some older tinsel contains lead, so be sure to check yours.
Corrosive batteries can be found in some Christmas novelty items, such as musical cards and flashing Santa hats so remove these at the end of use each year and replace them the following year.
A fire-retardant artificial Christmas tree is safer than a real tree which might be fire concern should it dry out.
Ensure that the lights you choose have the UK British Standard Kitemark or CE mark and inspect them for any damage before use. One of the most common causes of fire in the workplace is defective electrical equipment so please ensure when Portable Appliance Testing (PAT testing) your electrical appliances you don’t forget the Christmas lights!
If you’re using artificial snow sprays, always wear a protective mask and use in a well-ventilated area as they can irritate the lungs.
Day-to day safety precautions to consider
Turn off any Christmas lights before your staff go home at night. This might mean making one person responsible for the job or sharing the role using a rota.
Any bulbs that break should be replaced.
Ensure your lights and decorations are out of reach of young children or pets who might visit your workplace and could try to put them in their mouths which could be a choking hazard. Avoid decorations that look like sweets or food.
Some decorations can be poisonous to dogs, such as chocolate.
If you’re using extension cables for the festive displays, don’t overload sockets and ensure they’re not a trip hazard. Never join multiple extension leads together.
Wet or icy conditions can also increase the risk of electric shock from Christmas lights. Make sure all wiring and connections are secure. Wind can also blow over or knock down decorations causing a safety hazard.
Be wary that your workplace or store may have more stock or people than normal due to the time of year which can also be a fire risk. Be sure to have an up-to-date risk assessment completed for everyone’s safety.
Acorn Safety Services can help with all your health and safety needs including fire risk assessments and expert advice. Call us today on 01604 936369, email info@acornhealthandsafety.co.uk or fill out our online quote form.
