Whether you are at home, a public place, school or work, it is important to know how to prevent fires and react in a fire emergency. At the workplace, everyone in the building is responsible for keeping the environment safe. Here are some essential fire prevention and fire response tips for the workplace:
Fire Prevention
- Workspace Clutter – Keep your workspace organized and free of clutter as clutter provides fuel for the fire and may restrict access to escape routes and emergency exits.
- Equipment – Keep equipment that produces heat away from combustible objects; store flammable materials and chemicals safely, at a safe distance from heat sources.
- Electrical Safety – Almost 40% of workplace fires are caused by electrical failures. Check electrical cords periodically; have damaged wires serviced or replaced.
- Power Outlets – Make sure that power outlets are not overloaded with too many cords; plugs should fit the outlet (i.e., insert two-prong plugs only into three-slot outlets).
- Emergency Exits – Learn the escape routes and exits in the building. All emergency routes and exits should be unobstructed.
- Fire and Smoke Alarms – Management should ensure that smoke detectors and fire alarms are inspected and tested regularly.
- Fire Extinguishers must be current on their inspections. Employees should be trained on how to use fire extinguishers.
- Smoking – There should be designated areas for smoking outside the building. All employees should be aware of the hazards of smoking inside the building.
- Fire Drills – Regular fire drills should be performed at the workplace and there should be an evacuation procedure in place.
Fire Response
- If a fire breaks out in the building, sound the alarm to alert other employees.
- Call 911 immediately and don’t hang up until the emergency responder tells you to.
- If the fire is small, you may attempt to extinguish it with a fire extinguisher. However, if the fire cannot be controlled by a fire extinguisher, evacuate immediately.
- Follow the escape routes and go to the muster point outside the building.
- Close the doors behind you when exiting the building to help prevent fire from spreading.
- Never use an elevator. Depending on the magnitude of the fire, elevators may shut mid-transit due to electrical damage.
- Learn basic first aid skills. After the evacuation, help any employees who may have been injured either by the flames or smoke inhalation.
- Once you are out, stay out. Never go back inside a smoke-filled or burning building.
Preparedness is key to preventing fires at the workplace. Follow the advice above and you can save yourself and your coworkers from injuries and death, and the property from damage.
For professional fire damage repair or smoke remediation services, contact your local PuroClean office.
