How To Prevent Workplace Fire

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

In 2018 there was an estimated 111,000 fires in non-residential buildings, i.e. your office space. The majority of these cases could have been prevented by being prepared and staying on top of caring for your company. Below are some of the most common causes of workplace fires, and some tips on how to prevent them.

Clutter and Combustibles

In preparation to prevent workplace fires, thoroughly clean the office building. A lack of consistent cleaning of all portions of the office and proper removal of combustibles such as cardboard, paper, or wood can cause unforeseen fires to occur.  

Prevention begins with regular work-site inspections. Check all rooms, from high volume areas to areas that are normally not touched, and open ventilation to see if you have any blockages or buildup of combustible material. Cleaning electronics and equipment of dust and other particles so their vents can run properly. Speaking of electronics…

Electronics and Equipment

Misused, damaged, or faulty electronics and equipment rank the highest in causes for workplace fires. Your company can circumvent this by conducting regular maintenance tests and check-ups on all building electronics. You’ll need to be on the lookout for loose cables, damaged electronics, and overheating appliances that occurred during improper or over usage.

Arson

While not the most common, Arson still carries a large percentile of fires that occur in the workplace. You can reduce the risk of this happening to your business by installing intelligent video fire detection systems as well as up to date security systems for your workplace, like motion-sensor lighting and CCTV. Good security measures will deter potential arsonists.

Human Error

Human error will always happen where there are people. From improper use of equipment and failing to follow health and safety guidelines, to simply errors in judgment, there will be accidents on the job that lead to workplace fires. To help lower the risk probability, make sure all employees take part in regular fire safety programs and use these programs to reinforce protective policies that the company should already have set in place.

Smoking

Roughly 36% of fires (commercial and non-commercial) are caused by smokers’ materials. While banning smoking on the premises will prevent this from happening, your employees who smoke will thank you for taking a less drastic approach. Dedicate a small area outside on your property for smoking. We suggest at least 10 feet away from your building to minimize fire hazards.

Remember these tips are not a one-time deal. You must stay vigilant in keeping your business ready for any disasters that may occur. If tragedy strikes, know that SERVPRO of Roanoke Rapids is here for you. We’ll get you business up and running like it never even happened