If you are a business owner in Altrincham, it is vital that you make sure your company is in compliance with the local fire safety laws with an Altrincham fire risk assessment report. These laws have been put in place for a reason, and that reason is to protect your customers, employees, and business. When you fail to ensure that your business meets its legal obligations regarding fire safety, the consequences can be devastating. Not only can you find yourself in legal trouble, but there is also the risk of serious injury and even death.
Fortunately, complying with these fire safety laws are easier than you may think. You will need to place an emphasis on three aspects of fire safety. These aspects are:
- Fire prevention
- Evacuation plan
- Fire prevention equipment
Fire Safety Hazards
In order for a fire to start, it requires three things. A fire needs heat, a flammable product, and oxygen. Ignition sources can vary from cigarettes and matches to electrical equipment and heaters. An ignition source is anything that can cause a spark or can become overheated. A fire also needs a fuel source. Furniture, petrol, wood, plastic, paper, and rubbish are common fuel sources for fires. Finally, fire needs oxygen. Oxygen is found in the air that we breathe.
What Is Fire Prevention?
Fire prevention involves making sure that every employee is trained in how to properly handle products that can be potentially flammable. This step can also involve making the necessary steps to protect your property. For example, installing a sprinkler system can help extinguish any fires that may start.
An Evacuation Plan
Every business needs an evacuation plan. Every exit that is in the building will need to be clearly marked. Fire drills should be held on a regular basis so employees are knowledgeable in how to exit the building quickly and safely. The evacuation plan will ensure that everyone leaves the building without feeling panicked or experience problems. As a result, the chances of injury or death are minimized.
Fire Prevention Equipment
In compliance with fire safety laws, you will also need to have fire extinguishers located throughout your business. The exact location of the extinguishers will be based on the type of business you own. For example, if you own a restaurant, you will be required to have at least one fire extinguisher in the kitchen in case of a grease fire. These pieces of equipment should also be inspected at least annually so they will be able to contain a fire. The equipment should also include instructions on how to maintain it properly.
Fire Risk Assessment
Every employer should appoint a fire risk assessor within the company. This person will be in charge of managing fire risks in and around the building, and this will be a part of their fire risk assessment. This assessment is similar to other types of risk assessments in health and safety sectors. The assessor will:
- Identify all fire risks and hazards
- Identify persons at risk
- Evaluate risks and consider steps that will need to be taken to reduce and remove risks
The majority of fires can be prevented. Employers and employees can help prevent fires in the workplace by adopting the right procedures and behaviours.