When management and those who oversee safety build a relatable and progressive safety accountability structure, even if it is one piece at a time, the business is one step closer to having a safety management system in place. One of those pieces is fire safety.

Workplace fires are always possible, but businesses can prepare and reduce the opportunities of them occurring in the first place. Set time aside to train employees to identify fire hazards and practice correcting potential problems. Training should also include policies on what steps to take in an emergency.

Plan for fire safety readiness by:

• Inspecting fire alarm and smoke detector functionality
• Visually check the condition of fire extinguishers monthly and sign the tag
• Ensure the quantity and location of extinguishers are adequate for the building size and use type
• Verify emergency exit doors are not blocked and operate correctly
• Periodically perform fire drill exercises, including all staff members and management
• Have heating systems and electrical equipment regularly inspected for proper functionality

Additional fire safety measures:

• Ensure exit plans are posted in several locations
• Ensure merchandise is not stacked so high as to block sprinkler heads. Fire codes often require 18” of space required between sprinklers and merchandise.
• Train new employees on how to use fire extinguishers and what steps should be taken in the event of a fire
• Identifying an emergency assembly area for an accounting of employees who cleared the building during a fire
• Create a contingency plan with steps to get the business operational as soon as possible following a fire

Resources for more fire safety tips:

• SAFEME – Fire Extinguisher Lesson
• RS Safety Library Fire section
• National Fire Protection Association

Rick Means, Director of Safety and Education, is available to help members with safety. Contact Rick at 360-943-9198, Ext. 118 or [email protected].