Protecting your employees and premises from the risks of fire is a critical responsibility that should never be overlooked. As a business owner, ensuring appropriate fire prevention is not only required by law, but it can also save people’s lives in the event of a fire or explosion. Therefore, employers need to conduct regular fire assessments and implement clear safety guidelines in the workplace. Today we have prepared four key steps that businesses can follow to reduce dangers around offices, warehouses, and other public areas.
1. Provide Relevant Fire Safety Equipment
Ensuring your business has the correct fire safety equipment in place can alert employees, and potentially prevent fires from spreading further and growing out of control. Ensure that your team has a complete understanding of different fire safety equipment. For example, you will need to provide specific information about various types of fire and different working environments. It is important to explain to employees how to choose and use the correct fire extinguisher. In addition, remember to install fire alarms and check that they are working correctly. Provide fire escape ladders if necessary, and incorporate clear fire exit signs.
2. Obtain a Business Owner’s Policy
Fire is one of the most significant risks many workplaces face. This is why it is crucial to have the right business insurance in place that can cover damage caused by fire or other unexpected problems. A business owner’s policy encompasses business property and business liability insurance. It can help you handle claims that can arise, such as injury and property damage. At The Hartford, you can tailor your business owner’s policy to meet your company’s needs. Depending on the industry and size of your business, you can choose the option that fits your requirements best.
3. Store Chemicals Responsibly
Regardless of the type of business you run, you must ensure the proper storage of dangerous chemicals. These flammable liquids can be found in higher-end categories, such as petroleum-based products. However, they are also present in many cleaning products that most businesses use daily. Because of this, these items must be kept in a cupboard with clear warning labels attached to them. By storing away these products in a contained area, you can reduce the risk of an explosion if a fire breaks out in your establishment. Make sure containers are adequately sealed, and manufacturer instructions are followed.
4. Ensure Proper Employee Training
It is important to educate employees on the appropriate actions they need to take in the event of a fire. Be sure to perform regular fire drills and training to maintain a proper fire safety system at work. All employees must familiarize themselves with the correct fire escape routes and evacuation procedures. If there are any changes to fire safety regulations, staff should be informed promptly. Additionally, it is recommended that smoking areas be located away from the main building and areas where garbage and chemicals might be stored. Smoking bins must be available, and you should remind employees to dispose of cigarettes correctly.