Fire Safety Tips for Commercial Premises
All businesses have a legal obligation to put appropriate measures in place to protect the health and safety of their employees. To this end they invest in fire safety and prevention equipment, including fire extinguishers, alarms and emergency lighting as well as more specialised Automist solutions from Automist installers in Bristol and throughout the country.
A fire in the workplace can prove devastating, both to life and property, and is one of the biggest threat to business . However, by complying with health and safety guidelines, laws and regulations, employers can minimise risks as far as is possible. Check out the tips below:
Designate a Fire Officer
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 states that all commercial premise and businesses must designate a responsible person. According to the Act, duties of this individual include:
• Undertaking regular fire risk assessments.
• Identifying and putting into action any safety measures required.
• Checking that fire safety equipment complies with current regulations and is correctly installed and regularly maintained.
Fire Risk Assessment
Businesses are required to carry out fire risk assessments in accordance with The Fire Precautions Workplace Regulations (1997). A fire risk assessment involves identifying all threats and potential hazards. Appropriate measures should then be implemented to eliminate risks wherever possible. Many organisations choose to employ experts, such as Mainpoint Fire Protection or others to carry out assessments for them.
Installing Fire Safety Equipment
Commercial premises are required by law to have a fire alarm system in place. These work to both detect signs of fire, such as smoke and heat, as well as to alert people if there is an emergency. Fire extinguishers are another compulsory item.
The type of fire safety equipment required will vary depending on the environment and nature of the business. Once installed it is essential that all equipment is regularly checked and maintained.
Evacuation Plans
Part of the fire risk assessment should include an effective evacuation procedure, including a variety of escape routes. The evacuation procedure should be simple and clear, enabling employees to exit the premise as quickly and easily as possible. The plan should be regularly practiced by employees to reduce confusion and panic in the event of a real emergency. Emergency lighting and fire signage can make evacuation more efficient.