Workplace fire safety encompasses various practices to help reduce the business’s risk of fire and keep everyone in the building safer. If a workplace fire occurs, it may result in devastating losses, including property damage, injuries, and fatalities. In fact, fire is the most common cause of expensive small business claims.
As a business or property owner, it is up to you to ensure proper workplace fire safety is followed. This includes creating an evacuation strategy, having the right fire detection and suppression equipment on-site, and investing in a fire hydrant flow test, as needed.
Develop an Evacuation Strategy
Each business, regardless of size, needs an evacuation strategy in place. OSHA guidelines require businesses to create an EAP – emergency evacuation plan – if it is anticipated that someone would need to evacuate the premises if an emergency or fire occurred.
Maintain All fire Safety Equipment
Sprinklers, fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and other fire protection equipment must be monitored and inspected regularly. Faulty equipment needs to be replaced right away, and equipment should be stored in an easy-to-access location free from clutter or obstacles.
Train Employees
The top cause of fire in the workplace is human error. Kitchen mishaps and storing combustible materials improperly are the most common causes of these situations.
Train your employees to operate machines in use and store hazardous materials properly. Make sure they are aware of how important it is to follow the established safety procedures.
Protecting Buildings and People from Fire
Taking the right steps to protect property and people from fire will help ensure no serious issues occur and that no one is injured or killed because of a fire. Being informed and using the tips here are the best ways to minimize the possibility of a fire and maximize the likelihood of it being contained if one does occur.
