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Fire safety is crucial for every business with premises, no matter what size the company or building.
Having a comprehensive fire safety plan not only complies with legal regulations, but, more important than that, it helps to keep your team safe from harm.
We have put together a helpful, 10 step fire safety checklist based on best practices and fire safety regulations that any business can implement quickly and safely:
1. Conduct regular Fire Risk Assessments
A thorough fire risk assessment is the starting point of your fire safety plan. It helps identify potential hazards and ways you can minimise the risk of a fire starting or spreading. According to guidelines by the Health and Safety Executive, fire risk assessments must be conducted annually by a competent person. If carried out internally, an external company should be engaged every three years to review the assessment. The assessment should cover fire hazards, people at risk and escape routes. The findings and/or assessments should also be shared with staff so they know what they need to do in the event of a fire or how they can play their part in minimising the risk of fires breaking out in the first place.
2. Fire alarm systems
Early detection of fire is critical to saving lives. Having and maintaining a functioning fire alarm system is essential. Once you have installed a fire alarm system, ensure it is tested weekly (and the tests are recorded) to confirm it is operational at all times. Regular maintenance and servicing of the fire alarm system should also be scheduled to detect any faults early and prevent system failure.
3. Emergency lighting
In case of a fire, safe evacuation is a priority, and emergency lighting plays a vital role in guiding people to the fire exits. Make sure that all emergency lighting is in the correct position to illuminate exit routes and that all lights are functioning. We would also recommend an annual emergency lighting drain test. A full drain test will show if the lights will last as long as needed during an evacuation.
4. Electrical equipment
Defective electrical equipment is the most common cause of workplace fires in the UK. Regular inspections of electrical equipment, such as PAT testing, help to reduce this risk. Also avoid the use of trailing leads and adapters where possible to reduce fire risks associated with overloaded circuits and/or plug sockets.
5. Fire extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are vital for addressing small fires before they escalate and there are several types of extinguishers, all suited to different types of fires – for example water, foam, powder, carbon dioxide and chemical. Ensure you have the necessary extinguishers for your business and they are positioned in the right places. You will also need signage next to each one, explaining the type of extinguisher it is and what kind of fire it is to be used on.
6. Hazardous substances
Hazardous materials can pose significant fire risks, so managing them appropriately is critical. If dangerous substances are used or stored, ensure appropriate fire safety measures are in place. For example, a Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) assessment may be required, along with an ATEX inspection.
7. Escape routes and fire exits
Check that fire exits are not blocked or covered in any way and that routes to exits are accessible. Also think about how you would get disabled employees and visitors out of the building safely in the event of a fire. Create an evacuation plan.
8. Fire drills and training
All staff should be aware of fire safety procedures and what to do in the event of a fire. Conduct fire drills periodically so everyone knows the evacuation process and what is expected of them. Also, provide regular fire safety training for all staff, so that they are aware of fire risks and know how to act in an emergency.
9. Housekeeping
Good housekeeping practices reduce the likelihood of a fire by reducing the amount of combustible materials in the building. For example, clear away any boxes or paper that aren’t needed and regularly clean dust filters, fans and cooking equipment to prevent any build up. Also look at any materials or products you have to store. Are combustible materials kept away from heat sources and potential ignition points?
10. Review and Update
Fire safety plans are not static. They should be regularly reviewed and updated based on changes to the building, staff, new fire hazards, updates to rules and regulations or after any incidents. Conduct a yearly review of the fire risk assessment and make necessary adjustments if there have been any changes to the structure, occupancy, or use of the building.
If you need support and advice to protect your property and workforce from the dangers of fire, we can help you assess the risk and provide guidance and recommendations. Contact us for more information on 01604 936356 or info@acornhealthandsafety.co.uk. You also obtain a free quote here.
