Christmas Lights for All!
Lighting up the office with sparkly fairy lights creates the perfect Christmas spirit. Christmas lights are a great way to introduce the festive mood to the workplace and get everyone into the Christmas spirit. But we do it at work without
fire prevention. Sometimes, we use leftover lights from last year’s Christmas. If this is the case, you must
check your office gadgets for faults to avoid hazards. Also, it is paramount that you
do not overload your wall sockets with decorative lights. And stick to the standard regulation on lights. These lights generate heat, and should not be near flammable objects. And
ensure that all sockets and lights are off before ending your work day.
Prevention is key
It is essential that you don’t let it happen. Here are a few other pointers of
fire hazards in the workplace to help you achieve this. Always
check your fire door and ensure that they are in good condition. Have them checked annually.
Check the fire detectors.
Sometimes, there is an outbreak when the office is closed. A lack of a fire detector or functioning one can be cruel to your office building and appliances. The government are also making sure that businesses take fire detectors seriously. And there are laws to punish offenders. Have a functioning fire alarm to avoid devastating consequences.
Is your fire alarm dependable?
The alarm system is always fitted towards your office environment, i.e. your office layout and any adjoining buildings. Always have an assessment of your fire alarm system to be sure that it's in perfect working order, and is still suitable for your office environment. Also be sure to carry out constant checks yourself on its performance to be sure that it works just fine.
What is a Fire Risk Assessment?
A
Fire Risk Assessment also referred to as
FRA is a policy that explains the ways of
dealing with a fire at a workplace. It is a formal document that works as a guide on fire breakouts. The document prescribes a qualified person with the rights to upholding its content in the office.
The FRA is an important document for your business.Safety of workers during an evacuation
Apart from having a good FRA system working and in place, there should be a clear exit strategy in place for eventualities such as fire outbreak in your office. This should also be a part of your FRA document.
Noted points in your exit pan.
Except for a large building, keep your exit plan simple and straightforward. Let it be one that can be easily be remembered at all times. You can use exit signs in strategic locations.
The plan should have these points:
● The number of escape paths depending on the building size.
● Details of emergency doors and lighting
● Assigned emergency numbers to call
● Description/plan of the office building
● Exit routes should be free and easily accessible.
People with special needs are usually the most vulnerable in this situation. Your exit plan must bear this in mind. This also goes with your FRA document.
Feel free to keep in touch for your questions. Don’t forget that safety is everyone’s business. It is a constant effort that goes beyond Christmas.