The Chicago Fire of 1871 began in a barn owned by the O’ Leary family. But a century later, no one knows – nor is likely to know the actual cause of this devasting fire. Today, we have a much greater understanding of fires and their causes and it is this knowledge that behooves us to do our part to keep our businesses and homes protected.
As a business owner, you must do your part to ensure that your employees and others who may be at your location are safe. You can do this by taking preventive actions and providing the training and tools needed should there ever be an emergency. After all, fire safety is important!
Workplace Fire Safety
Workplace fire safety is something that every employer or business owner should know. Why? Consider these statistics from FEMA:
- Over 100,000 fires occur every year, costing business owners more than $2.4 billion.
- 30% of office fires and 50% of hotel and motel fires are caused by cooking.
- There are 95 deaths and 1,200 injuries yearly due to business fires.
- 31% of office fires happen between 7 pm and 7 am, but these fires cause 67% of the property damage.
These numbers are solid indicators that workplace fire safety is not something to be taken lightly. So, what can you do to minimize the chances of being part of these statistics?
Tips for Fire Safety at Work
Evacuation Plan
In school, most of us practiced fire drills, tornado drills, or other drills so that everyone knew what to do in case of an emergency. The workplace is no different. No matter the size of or company or where you are located, it is vital that there is an evacuation plan not just in a frame on the wall but taught to your employees. In the event of an emergency, no one wants to have to stop to read a sign!
Be sure your evacuation plan gets practiced often and without warning so it becomes second nature rather than stressful.
As a business, you are required to have at least two exits, two exit paths, and emergency exits that are easy to identify. These exits should never be blocked! Another action you can take to make the escape route easier is use glow-in-the-dark tape to mark the walls so people can more easily see where to go.
Install Safety Equipment and Keep it Current
Smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and fire suppression systems all play an important part in workplace fire safety, which is why they are required for business facilities. Take time to check the various equipment and systems as per any state or local requirements. Most of these items should be checked at least annually, but if you have an older system it may be wise to check it more often. Ideally, your safety equipment needs to be up to date, so it will always pass an inspection. After all, the cost of the upgrade will always be less than the value of a person’s life.
Keep it Clean!
At least once a month, take time to walk around the entire facility and check for any fire hazards. By eliminating a potential problem before it happens you can do your part to promote workplace fire safety. Some fire hazards to watch for are:
- Cords that are fraying or breaking; also, be sure they are plugged firmly into the outlet.
- Don’t overload surge protectors or power strips.
- Be sure that if you have an onsite kitchen that the appliances are clean and free of spilled grease, sugar, sauces, etc. as these items can be quite flammable!
- Turn off any tools or appliances with a burning smell, smoke, sparks, or lights flickering.
- Emergency exits or fire extinguishers are not blocked by materials, furniture, etc.
- Fire sources such as chemicals, paper, aerosols, or other flammable items are not stored near a heat source.
Fire Extinguisher Training
A tool is only good if one knows how to use it. Consider having a training session for your employees to ensure everyone is comfortable with and knows how to operate a fire extinguisher properly.
Fire safety in the workplace is not something to be taken lightly. Implementing these actions may take some time, but if they ensure the safety of you, your employees, and your business, then they are well worth the investment.
The Code 4 Fire Watch team is here to help you with any questions or concerns you might have about workplace fire safety. Our team knows what to look for with your current fire alarm or sprinkler system to ensure that it will work properly in the event of an emergency and can determine if your system is compliant with all local and state regulations. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today.
