22 Sep Don’t Get Burned: Fire Safety Tips for the Workplace

A fire in the workplace may not seem like something that could happen to your business, but they occur more often than you may think. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that fires and explosions accounted for 148 workplace deaths in 2013, and an average of over 200 fires occur in workplaces every day, according to OSHA.

The majority of workplace fires (nearly 85%) can be prevented. Whether you are an employer or employee, there are plenty of measures you can take to prevent and prepare for unexpected blazes.

Recognizing & Eliminating Fire Hazards

Beginning at your own workstation, slowly expand your focus area and consider the following tips:

• Clean up clutter. Keep your work area organized and clean. Clutter can act as fuel for fire and block your exit routes. Be sure to throw out your trash regularly as part of this.
• Don’t overload power outlets and extension cords. Make sure outlets can handle the voltage of your connected equipment.
• Check your electrical cords. Repair or replace damaged/exposed wires. Remember, 39% of workplace fires are electrical.
• Isolate your heat-producing equipment. Some good examples of this would be copiers and coffee makers. Keep them away from materials that could burn.
• Properly store flammable work materials and chemicals. You’ll want to select a safe location away from potential ignition sources.
• Don’t block sprinkler systems and smoke detectors.
• Smoke only in designated areas. In general that means outside and away from building entrances.

Preparing an Emergency Action Plan

Not every employer is required to have emergency action plans. However, that shouldn’t stop you from knowing what to do if a fire breaks out. So be aware of the following recommendations ahead of time:

• Locate the alarm closest to you. The immediate priority when a fire breaks out is to alert the other employees in the building.
• Know the evacuation procedure and keep your escape route clear. This is important if you are in a multiple-story building and your route includes a staircase.
• Keep a list of emergency contact phone numbers in an accessible place.

Checking Exits & Fire Extinguishers

OSHA requires every workplace to have enough exit locations for employees to get out of the facility quickly. The type of structure, number of persons inside the building, fire protection available, and type of industry are all factors that contribute to the exact number requirement. But not matter how many exits your company has, ensure that you’ve checked for the following:

• Fire doors must not be blocked or locked when employees are inside.
• Exit routes must be free of obstructions and clearly marked with exit signs.
• Delayed opening of emergency exits are permitted when an approved alarm system is integrated with the door design.
• Certain extinguishers are designed to extinguish different types of fires. The correct fire extinguishers must be chosen and maintained consistently.

Reacting to A Fire

Fires can happen to anyone at any time. When faced with a fire (or any emergency), follow the three key steps known as A-C-T:

• A: Assess the situation
• C: Choose your response
• T: Take action

Remember, you can never be too prepared for any situation! If the fire is manageable, locate and use an extinguisher. If the fire is too large to handle, evacuate immediately.

Don’t Let Your Workers Get Burned

There’s a lot that goes into fire safety. Creation World Safety offers courses in creating a comprehensive corporate fire safety plan and employee safety training courses in fire prevention. To learn more about our courses for fire prevention and fire safety, contact our safety training company today!