Fire can pose a significant threat to a business with substantial consequences, ranging from property damage to loss of life. However, if you are familiar with fire alarm testing in British offices, you may be tempted to brush fire risks off. Surely, fires are not that frequent anymore in 2023? You’d be surprised to learn that fire remains a substantial risk to every British business, with around 22,000 workplace fires every year. For perspective, this is approximately 423 fires each week, which makes over 60 fires a day if you consider a 7-days week. The bottom line: Fires do continue to happen even today. As such, it has become essential for businesses to invest in the safety of their employees, customers, and assets. Proactive measures designed to prevent fires are a no-brainer.
By Team Savant
Image: Brian Wangenheim
High Security System For Early Detection
Are all fires accidental? The answer is no. Some fires may be accidental, and when it is the case, you want to make sure you are equipped to stop them. This is precisely where having a high security CCTV system can be crucial for identifying potential fire risks and preventing acts of arson. This will ensure your security guards can spot suspicious activities rapidly.
Additionally, you also want to add advanced fire detection systems that use state-of-the-art technology, including smoke and heat sensors to identify even the slightest traces of fire. These are typically integrated with alarm systems in order to trigger alerts to the appropriate personal or emergency services in real-time. Early detection means a rapid response that can minimise potential damage.
Effective Materials and Structures To Prevent Fire Spread
An often overlooked aspect of fire prevention is the choice of building materials and structures that impede the spread of flames. Fire penetration sealing systems play a crucial role in preventing fires from spreading from one area to another.
These systems involve using fire-resistant materials and sealing techniques to close off gaps, joints and openings in walls, floors, and ceilings. This can significantly reduce the risks of flames engulfing your entire premises by minimising the pathways for propagation.
Regular Audits To Identify and Address Fire Risks
Conducting regular fire safety audits is an essential practice that can identify and address potential fire risks within your business environment. What should a fire audit include? As a rule of thumb, these audits should involve a comprehensive assessment of your premises, including electrical systems, storage areas, and potential ignition sources. This can allow you to identify and rectify fire hazards, such as faulty wiring, flammable material storage. Or even inadequate fire extinguisher placements.
Training For Proper Fire Response
Proper training for your staff is a fundamental pillar of fire prevention. When employees are well-trained in handling fire risks, they are more likely to react calmly and effectively in case of a real emergency. Indeed, panicked staff can inadvertently exacerbate the situation by making poor decisions or failing to follow established evacuation protocols.
So, the reasons why many businesses continue to proceed to regular fire drills and training sessions is not only to cover fire prevention measures, but also to equip everybody with the knowledge they need to evacuate safely and protect each other in an emergency.
There is no denying that preventing fire risks in your business requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses many aspects of fire protection, from prevention to reaction training. Fire safety protects not only your business, but also your team and your customers. It isn’t something you can afford to leave to chance.