Tips For Managers on Business Fire Safety Essentials

There's no question that fires can have a destructive impact on a company. Alongside presenting a dangerous threat to human life, fires can ravish through resources and properties, and elicit an extensive amount of lost income through high priced and time-consuming repairs. It shouldn't come as a surprise that there are rigorous regulations when it pertains to commercial fire safety in Australia. Business managers should incorporate an in depth fire safety plan for their workplace and make sure that all workers are comprehensively trained in these fire safety procedures. Although there are typical fire safety tools such as fire extinguishers and smoke alarms which are required by law, there are also some fundamental tips that business managers must be aware of to make sure all team members are safe and any damage to equipment or property is mitigated in the unfortunate event of a fire.

Undertake A Fire Safety Audit

One of the best ways to ensure the safety of your staff members is to point out potential fire hazards throughout the building by consulting with a fire protection expert. Not only will they identify possible fire risks, but they will also make sure that the most suitable solution is installed to mitigate any damage that a fire may cause. Every office is unique, and so are the fire hazards, but typical fire hazards include missing or obsolete fire safety equipment (for example fire extinguishers), locked exit doors, blocked walkways, electrical equipment, and damaged exit lights.

Prevention Is The Best Protection

Irrespective of the building you occupy, there are specific fire prevention procedures that you should employ regularly. The following steps is a standard guideline that covers most types of buildings:

●     Keep combustible and flammable liquids in a safe place;

●     Make sure that electrical equipment is being utilised properly and safely;

●     Perform general housekeeping routinely to ensure that rubbish is not piling up and walkways and exits are not inhibited;

●     Ideally, install fire-safe furnishings and decorations;

●     Maintain and inspect commercial kitchen exhaust systems;

●     Ensure hazards are always controlled; and

●     Ensure smoking materials and open flames are controlled at all times.

Routinely Check For New Fire Safety Legislation

It's crucial that business managers design a fire prevention plan based upon the 'Planning for Emergencies in Facilities' as per Australian Standard AS3745: 2010. It's typical for new legislation to be introduced that business managers should be aware of, so keeping up to date with these standards is vital. New legislation can be introduced regarding fire protection equipment, maintenance, and training, so it's a great idea to keep in touch with your fire protection expert often.

Provide Staff members With Comprehensive Fire Safety Training

Upon induction, all staff members should be trained in the appropriate fire safety procedures including the proper use of fire extinguishers. It's important that all staff members know how to respond to a fire emergency, the appropriate evacuation procedures, and which fire extinguishers are suitable to control small fires. Remember that using the incorrect fire extinguish can be very dangerous. There should also be an assigned fire warden for each building that is accountable for the safety of all occupants, including assembly area checks and notifying fire emergency services.

Make sure All Fire Equipment Is Routinely Serviced And Maintained

Fire equipment is only helpful when they are functioning and dependable, so it is necessary to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines in relation to service and maintenance. If you're doubtful, get in touch with your fire protection specialist who will be able to produce a schedule for service and maintenance dates of your fire equipment. The Australian Standard AS1851-2012 'Routine service of fire protection systems and equipment' should be adhered to, so standard testing can determine any issues that can result in faulty equipment which should be actioned as soon as possible.

While business managers are accountable for the safety of their staff members, keeping on top of all the associated fire safety regulations and legislation can be complex and time-consuming, given that new legislation is introduced on a regular basis. Consequently, it's recommended that business managers employ a fire protection specialist who can provide professional advice regarding any fire safety matter necessary. If you require any more information on the above guidelines, or would like some assistance concerning fire safety in your building, reach out to King Fire Protection Services on 1300 344 966, or visit their website: http://www.kingfire.com.au/