Preventing Workplace Fires

Introduction Workplace fires can be devastating in terms of injuries, fatalities and damage to property. Everyone in your organisation is responsible for preventing fires As an employee, you should be aware of specific fire hazards that can be encountered on the job so you are able to identify and eliminate them.

If any one of these is missing, a fire cannot start. How Fires Start There are three ingredients required for a fire to start, this is known as the Triangle of Fire. Preventing the three coming together can greatly reduce the risk of a fire occurring.   Heat – A source of ignition, such as a heating element. Fuel – Items that will burn, such as paper, furniture, oil. Oxygen – Air. If any one of these is missing, a fire cannot start. Heat - Eliminating sources of heat can prevent fires from starting. Don’t leave sources of heat, such as cooking rings, unattended. Fuel - Fuel is what keeps the fire going, this includes paper and furniture. The key to preventing fires is to keep fuel sources away from heat. Oxygen - Removing the oxygen will extinguish the fire. By keeping doors and windows closed, the supply of oxygen will be restricted and slow down the fire.

Statistics 15,984 fires occurred in non-domestic properties in 2015/16 (Source: gov.uk) 43% of all businesses that experience a disaster never recover (*Source: BIBA and the Cabinet Office) 33% of all business emergencies are fire related (Source: Business Continuity Institute)

The Law & Legal Obligations Fire Safety Legislation ensures that safe practices are carried out in compliance with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.   An employer has a responsibility to safeguard their employees and other people entering their premises You must adhere to your employer's fire safety policies and procedures. If you see a potential hazard: You MUST report it! Keep records of all reports made including date, time and to whom. The Fire Authority Officer can inspect a workplace at any time The Fire Authority Officer can inspect your workplace at anytime when you are open or when employees are working. The Fire Officer has the power to instigate a prosecution Each offence found carries substantial penalties of up to £20,000 and in some cases PRISON SENTENCES or Both If you are successfully prosecuted you will end up with a criminal record

Fire Doors & Exit Routes Fire exits and doors provide a safe passage out of the building/premises. Fire doors protect your escape routes and stop the spread of fire and smoke, CLOSE THEM Locked and blocked fire exits are potential killers, unlock and KEEP CLEAR Keep fire doors and exits clear of any obstructions and unlocked whenever the building is in use. If in doubt, REPORT IT!

Fire Extinguishers There are various types of extinguishers available depending on the type of application. It is important to ensure they are prominently sited and have not been tampered with. Never obstruct a fire extinguisher Only remove a fire extinguisher from the stand or bracket for checking or fire-fighting If you see an extinguisher is missing, defective or damaged, REPORT IT!

Arson Prevention If in doubt, REPORT IT! Arson attacks are on the increase, however there are some steps you can take to act as deterrents. Keep the property secure and ensure any windows and doors are closed at night Keep combustibles out of reach Secure bins away from the building and provide lids where possible Avoid storing large quantities of combustibles in areas that are easily accessible Have regular waste collections Security lighting offers some deterrent. If fitted, make sure that it works CCTV is one of the best deterrents, make sure the cameras are not obstructed or easily accessible. If in doubt, REPORT IT!

Housekeeping If in doubt, REPORT IT! Everyone can help prevent fire with good housekeeping. Untidy workplaces make it easy for fires to get started and spread, keep the workplace clean and tidy! Switch off and unplug any unnecessary electrical appliances when not in use, especially at the end of the day or beginning of a weekend/holiday break Check desks and production areas for damage to leads, overloaded plugs and damaged or warm surge protectors Never block fire sprinkler heads, sprinkler controls or fire extinguishers Limit wooden pallet storage within buildings as they can catch fire quickly. If in doubt, REPORT IT!

Flammable Liquids If in doubt, REPORT IT! It is vital to keep flammable liquids and sources of fuel away from potential ignition sources. Store flammable liquids in approved flammables storage cabinets Highly flammable liquids should preferably be stored outside in a secure store Never leave flammable liquid containers open Lock away cleaning fluids which may be flammable Never smoke when handling these liquids Cylinders, if not in use, should be stored in a protective secure store preferably away from the building. If in doubt, REPORT IT!

Smoking If in doubt, REPORT IT! Smoking is the most common cause of commercial fires as cigarette butts can smoulder for a long time. Do not smoke within the facility Do not smoke near loading areas or waste collection areas Provide outside areas free of combustibles (e.g. grass, waste containers) for employees to smoke. If in doubt, REPORT IT!

Electrical Equipment If in doubt, REPORT IT! Electrical equipment poses a huge fire risk. Ensure all electrical equipment is in a good state of repair Do not overload electrical sockets or extension leads Avoid using cable reel extensions for long periods of time Crushed or damaged cables can cause fires and electrocution Charred lampshades or light fittings indicate overheating which could lead to a fire starting Do not run cables under carpets/mats Provide adequate ventilation to electrical appliances If an electrical item becomes very hot, turn off the supply. If in doubt, REPORT IT!

Everything you need to effectively manage Fire Safety seton.co.uk