The key fire safety measures you should be taking
Unattended candles are a big fire risk this time of year. But when it comes to your business, fire safety is an important issue all year round.
Do not leave candles unattended. This is the advice recently issued from firefighters in Newbury.
The edict came after a fire engine from Newbury Fire Station was called to a house last month when a smoke alarm was set off by tea lights left unattended in an unoccupied property. Happily, on this occasion, the firefighters extinguished the candles and there was no damage caused to people or property. However, they were keen to stress the fire risks caused by leaving candles and open flames unattended.
The problem of unattended candles is particularly common at this time of year as the dark nights draw in and we use candles to make our homes feel warm and cosy. However, attention should be paid to fire safety all year round, both in the home and in the workplace.
Fire safety at work
Fire safety in the workplace is an issue that all business owners and managers need to pay attention to. Fire poses a serious risk to companies; it can destroy stock and premises, causing significant financial damage and, more importantly it could potentially result in serious injury or death for your customers or employees.
The responsibility for fire safety lies with the business owner or manager, so if you are in this position you need to be aware of your responsibilities in this area. The good news is that most fires are preventable and by following basic safety measures you can help minimise the risks to your business, employees and customers.
Equipment
As a business owner you are legally required to install a fire detection and warning system. You should also have adequate fire-fighting equipment which is appropriately signposted with fire equipment signs and tested regularly to ensure it’s in full working order. Don’t forget to ensure that staff know where the equipment is located and, importantly, how to use it.
Training
First and foremost it’s important that you are fully trained on fire safety measures and how to implement them. The cost of non-compliance is high, so you need to know what is expected of you.
As well as fire safety training for you and selected staff members (e.g. designated Fire Wardens) all employees should be familiar with the company’s firefighting and emergency evacuation procedures.
Planning ahead
When it comes to fire safety, planning ahead is key. A risk assessment will help you to identify the potential risks and the steps you can take to minimise them. There are a number of things you should consider when carrying out a risk assessment, including evacuation routes, fire-fighting equipment, and the storage of flammable materials. Don’t forget to take into account the needs of any people who are vulnerable or less mobile.
The other aspect to your planning should be putting an emergency evacuation plan in place. This plan should identify a clear and direct exit route in the case of a fire, as well as a designated safe assembly point for all staff and customers. Ensure that all staff members are familiar with the evacuation plan and hold drills at least once a year so that you can be sure it works effectively.
Fire safety is a serious business and you disregard it at your peril. But aside from keeping an eye on your candles, there are plenty of simple and straightforward steps you can take to minimise the risk of fire this winter and all year round.