There are steps companies can take to reduce the possibility that employees would be unprepared were a fire to occur on the property. Anytime is a good time to make sure workers are aware of fire hazards, how to correct potential problems and what to do in case of an emergency.
Review fire safety by checking:
- Fire alarms and smoke detectors
- The condition of fire extinguishers
- Do you have enough firefighting equipment?
- Are emergency exit doors free from blockage and operating correctly?
- If you’ve ever performed a fire drill exercise.
- Heating systems and electrical equipment for proper functionality
Other housekeeping should include:
- If exit plans are posted in several locations
- Making sure that merchandise is not stacked so high that it blocks sprinkler heads. There should be at least 18 inches of space between a sprinkler and merchandise.
- Training new employees how to use a fire extinguisher and what to do if fire were to happen
- If a fire were to happen, can everyone exit safely?
- Making sure you have a contingency plan to reopen as soon as possible
Here are great links for more fire safety tips:
SAFEME – Fire Extinguisher Lesson
RS Safety Library under the Fire section
National Fire Protection Association
WR employs Rick Means who is available to members to help draw up safety plans and suggest topics for safety meetings. Contact him at 360.200.6454 or [email protected]
