The importance of workplace fire safety training
Fire poses a major threat to every working environment in the UK. Often resulting in damaged property, serious injuries and loss of life, the impact of accidental fires should not be underestimated. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order, organisations have a responsibility to identify fire hazards, minimise risks and keep employees safe.
Throughout 2017-18, the risk of fire remained just as potent as ever…
564,827 incidents were dealt with by fire and rescue services
30% of these incidents were fires
15,577 primary fires in non-domestic buildings
20 fire-related deaths in non-dwellings
551 fires in office buildings and call centres
3745 fires in retail and industrial premises
Common causes of fire at work:
Fires need a source of ignition, fuel and oxygen in order to start, but these are typically the most common causes of workplace fire:
Unsafe electrical equipment
Dangerous substances
Combustible materials
Poor housekeeping
Smoking
Cooking
Unsafe working practises
Arson
Portable heaters
Human behaviour
The potential impact of workplace fire:
Interrupted business operations
Damaged property and equipment
Employee injury or loss of life
Destruction of important documents
Costly liability losses
Lost customers and clients
Damaged reputation
Reducing the risk of fire:
Carry out a fire risk assessment.
Undertake identified recommendations
Periodically review the fire risk assessment.
Ensure competent persons are appointed where necessary.
Provide fire safety training.
Maintain fire protection measures.
Plan for emergencies.
Implement safe working practices.
Infographic produced by Praxis42.