Fire safety in an office environment is a very important concern for many companies in Whangarei.
The potential for loss of life or lifelong injury from a fire outbreak is one of the most serious incidents that can happen in the workplace. It’s crucial that every company should have a comprehensive and updated fire safety program.
That said, having an effective fire safety plan requires a solid commitment on the part of the company. Several measures must be taken which includes getting in touch with a reliable fire safety expert in Northland. Fireco is one of the top NZ fire safety professionals you can rely on. We can advise you on matters related to fire suppression systems, alarm system standards, and fire safety planning.
Improve your Workplace Fire Protection
Though fires will always be a risk, one can always take steps to minimise its threat and save many lives in the process. You may say wrongfully be assuming hiring a professional fire safety company will cost a great deal, but the loss of life and the loss of property have a far greater and lingering cost.
One straightforward way is to eliminate all possible fire hazards. This is by informing and training people to recognise what these potential hazards are.
First is taking note of combustible and flammable materials. Of course, these are quite commonplace in most work environments, such as paper, cardboard and oils, but the amount you have in storage and its proximity from any heat or ignition source is something you should keep tabs on. It’s all about proper handling and storage, and carefully organising combustible and flammable materials in your work spaces, making sure they won’t catch fire in an instant.
Common causes of fires in the workplace:
- Poor housekeeping and storage management of flammable materials.
- Overloaded electrical outlets and extension cords.
- Unsupervised cooking in office pantries and kitchen.
- Misuse and neglect of heat producing appliances.
- Leaving flames burning for long hours like candles, heating coils, incense.
- Improper disposal of cigarettes.
- Not replacing damaged or frayed electrical wires on equipment or appliances.
- Mechanical forms of ignition due to overheating of machinery.
Implementing fire prevention measures is the best way to keep everyone safe. In fact, some fire safety reminders are very easy to follow.
Things to remember to keep your Whangarei office safe:
- Exits, egress points and stairways must be clear of any obstructions. These areas should be routinely checked and kept clutter free.
- Flammable liquids needed for work production should be accounted for, and only the necessary quantities needed for the job should be used. These chemicals should be stowed with care after the work day.
- Furniture, equipment, decorative items, combustibles, and flammable liquids should be properly stored and never be kept piled high.
- Dispose of garbage daily or whenever possible.
- Objects or piles should not obstruct any fire suppression systems or sprinkler heads. There should be at least 18 inches of space below the sprinklers for the water spray to be efficient.
- A fire safety expert should be called in to do periodic inspection of all firefighting equipment and fire extinguishers to ensure functional conditions.
- Provide the necessary number of electrical outlets within the work area. The use of extension cords should be temporary as to prevent overheating. Also extensions should not be stapled, nailed or hidden under carpets or enclosed areas.
- Unplug all electrical items after each use.
Do you need fire extinguisher training for your employees in order to introduce them to the methods of a basic fire extinguisher use plus other fire safety skills. We can customise a fire protection workshop that’s tailored for your company’s needs.
Feel free to call us at Fireco 0800 101 232 or email us at info@fireco.co.nz
