As a business owner, you have lots of things on your mind at once, and fire prevention likely isn’t on the top of your list. However, part of your job is to provide a safe work environment for your employees and protect your investment. After all, starting a business isn’t cheap, and fires can cause catastrophic damage. To help you keep your business and employees protected, look at a few essential fire prevention tips.
Implement an Evacuation Plan
Every business needs a detailed, well-communicated, accessible evacuation strategy. When everyone is on the same page about what to do in case of an emergency, it becomes much easier to keep everyone calm and safe. Your emergency action plan (EAP) should meet OSHA standards and requirements. At the very least, hallways and stairwells should be free and clear of obstructions.
Have the Appropriate Fire Suppressant Systems
Laws and ordinances will vary depending on your location, but your business should have the appropriate fire suppressant systems, such as sprinklers and fire extinguishers. Additionally, you need to regularly inspect these systems to ensure that they’re functioning correctly in case of an emergency. Employees should be aware of where these systems are and how to access and use them.
Make Sure Electronics Are in Good Condition
One of the most common causes of electrical fires is exposed and outdated wiring. The only way to reduce this risk is to consistently inspect your electrical wiring for frayed or exposed wires and make sure they’re not tangled. You should also ensure that these wires aren’t too close to flammable objects, such as paper, cloth, or flammable chemicals. If an electronic or its wiring isn’t performing as it should, you should replace it as quickly as possible.
Train Employees on Fire Safety
Communicate all these fire prevention tips to everyone within your business—employees and staff alike. It’s normal for people to panic in an emergency, and mindless accidents do occur. The best way to reduce human errors as much as possible is to communicate and educate one another. It may sound cliché, but knowledge is power. And the more you educate your employees, the safer and more confident they’ll feel.
