Perla IrishDid you know that house fires cause almost $7 billion of damage each year? The fire has long been one of man’s enemies. Under the right conditions, it can start quickly and spread even faster.
If you are responsible for an office or other workplace, preventing fire hazards will be one of your main priorities.
How can you ensure that your work premesis is protected from fire hazards? Why not read our in-depth article to find out.
Fire Protection Equipment
US law requires that workplace owners provide fire protection equipment suitable to the work taking place on the premises. Everyone in the workplace should be able to access fire extinguishers and other equipment.
Space can be tight in offices, however, fire extinguishers should not be placed in locations that people can not reach. This includes not placing them behind photocopiers or coffee machines.
Good Housekeeping
Good housekeeping means tidying up at the end of each day and is in fact one of the major ways to prevent fires. Keeping dry materials such as paper in cupboards and drawers means that they are away from sources of ignition.
Other housekeeping methods include regularly checking to ensure that dust is not building up in sprinkler or fire alarm systems. This dust can easily reduce the effectiveness of sensors. Cleaning can save lives.
Hazardous Waste
If your company deals with hazardous waste, you will need to take extra precautions to minimize the risk of fire.
Depending on the materials, you may need to keep them in metal containers or even store them a minimum distance from the premises.
Regular Testing
Testing fire prevention systems are often not popular, however, it is essential. Smoke detection and other systems should be tested frequently according to manufacturer instructions.
You should even arrange for practice evacuations of the premises. You can time how long it takes for everyone to leave the building and identify any obstacles.
Educate Workers
One of the most effective steps to preventing fire is the education of workers. Helping them to learn to use fire prevention equipment is important. However, when your staff understands the elements of fire and how to prevent it, they will identify risks and prevent fires much earlier.
You could hire a professional company to visit your workplace. They can provide an assessment of your current measures and even give training to your staff.
The Most Effective Way of Preventing Fire Hazards and Much More
Preventing fire hazards and protecting your work premises is a priority for all business owners and managers. Fire can quickly devastate a modern workplace by spreading through thin walls and electronic cabling. Taking strict measures to prevent fire can save both lives and your reputation.
If you are interested in learning more about professional workplace policies, then we are here to help. Why not check out our blog articles to find out more.
