10 Fire protection guidelines for commercial places

Each year, thousands of people die during fire mishaps, especially in commercial places. This is why the US government has made it mandatory for businesses to have a proper fire safety plan and fire protection systems.

Did you know?

• 19% of commercial fire accidents happened during weekends.
• The major cause of fires at workplaces is electrical equipment.

Whether you’re the owner or manager of a commercial building, it is your responsibility to make sure your business complies with fire safety standards and codes. Apart from installing fire protection systems in NYC, you need to provide your staff with fire safety training, so that they can handle a fire emergency situation and help during building evacuation.

Here are some of the guidelines that must be practiced to prevent a fire accident at workplaces.

• Make sure the work areas are free of combustible waste and clutter, as they can easily catch fire and quickly spread it. Therefore, it is important to practice good housekeeping.
• Keep your heat-producing equipment away from combustible materials and things.
• As mentioned already, most of the fire mishaps in commercial buildings result from electrical equipment. Therefore, make sure your electrical cords are in good working condition. If you find damaged or exposed wires, immediately repair or replace it.
• Keep a track of your power outlets. They shouldn’t be overloaded. And use extension cords and outlets that can handle the voltage of equipment they are connected with.
• Always store chemicals and flammable materials at a safe place, away from the ignition or heating source.
• When you connect an outlet with any equipment, make sure the plug fits perfectly with the outlet.
• The fire safety signages installed in your building should be clear and unobstructed. This is because these emergency exits and escape routes signages will only help your staff and customers evacuate the building in a fire emergency. So, they should be visible to everyone from a distance as well.
• If any fire protection system doesn’t work properly, it should be repaired or replaced immediately. Thus, regular inspection of fire protection systems is crucial.
• Make sure your fire extinguishers are up-to-date when it comes to inspection and must have tags, and indications of the recent inspection.
• Talk to your employees and explain to them the consequences of smoking on site.

In closing

Please remember, whether it’s in commercial building or a residential place, fire mishaps are almost always preventable. With installation and regular inspection of fire protection systems along with training your staff about fire safety, you can save yourself from property damage and loss of lives during a fire accident.