Fire prevention measures usually don’t yield any results, but when they do, they save lives. There is no such thing as a fireproof building. There are only ways to mitigate human loss and property damage.
This article will list core strategies to avoid disaster in case of a workplace fire.

Use fire retardant materials

When constructing or renovating your workspace, don’t skimp out on you and your employee’s safety.
Wall insulation materials can turn a raging inferno into an easily handleable situation. They usually work one of two ways.
  • They create an air pocket that slows down flames.
  • Their materials have a special texture that dissipates flames.
Technology is constantly evolving in the fireproof materials industry. Common wall insulation materials include cellulose, natural fibers, mineral wool, fiberglass, polystyrene, polyurethane, polyisocyanurate, etc.

Another excellent addition is fire retardant paint. A few coatings slow down encroaching flames considerably due to the paint’s chemical makeup. This provides precious minutes for evacuation and prevents human loss.

Take care of your fire prevention and suppression equipment

Up until now, we’ve been discussing prophylactic measures. These greatly reduce the chances of a fire breaking out, but they never bring it down to zero.
Functioning fire extinguishing and detecting equipment is the first line of defense. That means having working extinguishers and smoke detectors is a must.

When push comes to shove, a faulty fire extinguisher can do more harm than good. A person can waste precious seconds trying to use it instead of running for cover. Even with proper training and handling experience, a faulty extinguisher is a great hazard.
Have your extinguishers laid out in proper locations, clearly marked, and available—schedule regular fire extinguisher maintenance done by professionals.

A smoke detector’s timely beep can be a life saver. People usually neglect them, but their battery life should be routinely checked. Make sure they are not in hard to reach or isolated locations, so smoke can’t get to them.

A clear ventilation system also saves lives. People don’t realize that smoke actually causes the most damage to humans in the case of a fire.
Fire curtains are another way to slow down a fire. Put over frequently used doors. They drop down in case of a fire. Their fire retardant materials can be instrumental in controlling a flame.

Electrical fires are most common

Photo by Daniel Tausis on Unsplash

The thing with electrical installations is that you may have a disastrous fire hazard in your walls without knowing it. After years of nothing appearing out of place, a stray spark can lead to catastrophe.
An annual check of electrical installations is mandatory to minimize the chances of disaster.
Here are a few common fire hazards usually found in offices and other workplaces.
  • Overburdened extension cords If too many appliances are plugged into an extension cord, an overload is likely to happen. Kitchens are prime locations for overloaded extension cords, with the vicinity of water taps being adding a layer of danger.
  • If this is a common problem in your workplace, the best course of action is calling a professional electrician and installing more wall sockets.
Run down appliances
  • Again, workplaces have a higher number of people handling the same appliances on a daily basis. And people tend to be much less careful about using kitchen appliances in the office than in their own homes.
  • Cables easily get frayed, and an old coffee kettle can spell big trouble. Make sure you check the kitchen appliances in your workplace on a regular basis.
Loose wall sockets
  • Wiring past its prime is a big fire hazard. Cords fray, and wires become uninsulated. Seeing as though wall sockets in offices see more active use than average, you always need to keep an eye out for one that needs fixing and replacing.
Heaters
  • When left unattended, portable heaters can easily cause a fire. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon that people forget to turn them off. This is a set up for a catastrophe.
  • Make a strict policy of checking portable heaters every time the office is locked down for the night.
Here are some key takeaways regarding electrical fire safety in the workplace - water and electricity don’t mix; frayed cables lead to loose sparks; overloaded sockets and extension cords can cause distress.
Keep a close watch on these fire hazards.

A clear evacuation plan is half the battle

Make sure all emergency exits in your workplace are clearly and visibly marked.
Don’t block fire exits. People usually have a light attitude when it comes to keeping the fire exit clear. You must nip this attitude in the bud and make sure the fire exits in your office are clear at all times.

Organize regular fire safety training. It’s not everybody’s favorite pastime, but it is essential for safety in case of fire. Constantly repeating information will make sure it is etched into your employees’ minds, so if a fire does occur, they don’t have to think about the measures - they just act.

Here are some fire safety procedures that should be drilled at least twice a year:
  • Designate fire safety officers in your employee pool This is a great responsibility which not everyone will be willing to take. However, someone needs to be tasked with ensuring proper protocol is being followed in the event of a fire.
Regular fire drills
  • Having regular fire drills means that most people will presume a real fire situation is just another drill. This means they will stay calm and collected.
Have an established checkpoint location
  • Have a gathering point where the entire staff can meet in case of a fire. This is extremely useful for knowing whether everyone is out or someone needs quick rescuing.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has published guidelines for creating an Emergency Action Plan. Make sure you dedicate time to study them and also make sure your staff is acutely aware of the evacuation plan.

Encourage your employees to report on potential fire hazards, such as faulty electrical wiring and overworked extension cords.

Get your priorities in order

Kitchens are much more prone to bursting out into flames than bathrooms. Anywhere where people use electricity is where you want to point your attention to. Toasters, microwaves, and coffee makers are usually the ones to go first.

Server rooms are also notorious for being a breeding ground for fires. They are often closed off and very hot, with many wires and connecting highly combustible equipment. A clean and tidy server room is a staple of fire safety.

If your workplace has smoking areas, make sure they are clearly marked and isolated. An insufficiently snuffed out filter and some old carpet can bring forth flames.
Janitor’s closets are filled with flammable chemicals. Make sure those are neatly kept in order.

As a matter of fact, tidiness and cleanliness are one of the most effective fire prevention measures.
Make sure you never have overflowing paper waste baskets and properly stored chemicals, especially around electrical installations.

Conclusion

The old adage goes - fire is a great servant but a poor master. We tend to get lulled into a false sense of security and neglect measures that can save lives.
Having fire hazards in your offices is not only illegal - it is immoral. You have a responsibility to take precautions and avoid disaster in your workplace.