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Let’s face it – there is a risk of fire in every workplace.

Whilst the risk of fire is, of course, more likely in situations where flammable chemicals or combustible materials are in use, those in lower risk environments should not become complacent. Hot weather, such as that experienced during the Australian summer, can also impact the fire risk you are facing.

This is why fire safety and emergency procedures are so important. But what can you do to reduce the risk on your site?

Identify Potential Fire Hazards

It’s important that you’re aware of what actually poses a fire risk in your workplace. Look for the presence of ignition sources (such as heaters, lighting and electrical equipment) and possible fuel sources (such as packaging, plastics, rubber, petrol and chemicals).

Assess the Risks

Once you’ve identified potential hazards, you need to assess the risk that each of them poses. Whilst all hazards are cause for concern, this assessment will help you to determine which need the most urgent attention.

Put Measures in Place

In order to control these risks, you will need to put certain measures in place. Some of the ways this can be achieved include:

  • Ensure that flammables are stored correctly and don’t leave drums (full or empty) lying around. Safety cabinets are ideal in these situations; iQSafety has one to meet all your needs, from hazardous and flammable to corrosive and toxic.
  • Ensure that flammable liquids are handled correctly. Dispensing and storage cans will allow you to store a range of liquids safely and securely, avoiding leaks and spills. You can also expect a smooth, accurate pour every time.
  • Ensure that relevant safety information is kept with chemicals and flammable substances – and ensure that it is legible. Purpose-designed document storage holders are ideal, as they protect paper from weathering.
  • Eliminate work processes that could lead to an explosive atmosphere and ensure that all workers have up to date training. It is also a good idea to regularly provide refresher training to avoid lapses in memory.
  • Switch off electricity points when you leave for the day. A large number of workplace fires occur overnight or over the weekend when there is no one there, so turning machinery off at the switch can help to avoid this.
  • Remove waste material that could become fuel. Don’t leave empty flammable liquid drums lying around your workplace – ensure that you arrange for them to be properly disposed of or refilled soon after finishing.

Install Fire Extinguishers

Having access to fire extinguishers will allow you to quickly respond to any small fires that occur within your premises. Keep in mind that there are different extinguishers for different types of fires, so choose yours accordingly.

Monitor Fire Hazards

Going forward, it is essential that you continue to monitor the hazards and review the controls you have put in place. This will ensure that they continue to effectively minimise the fire risk, keeping your premises and workers safe.

Have an Evacuation Plan

No matter how minimal the risk may seem and how many measures you have put in place to avoid fire, having an evacuation plan in case of emergency is essential. Ensure that exits are marked, aren’t blocked and are always unlocked from the inside.

Workplace fire safety is an issue for every business – large and small.

Fires can be devastating in a number of ways – not only could they put your workers at risk of harm if they were to break out during the work day, they can prove to be costly (due to loss of inventory, damages, insurance premiums, and so on). Avoiding these sorts of disasters should, therefore, be a top priority.

The team at iQSafety is ready and waiting to help you make your premises as fire safe as possible – check out our range of products today.

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