You’ve worked hard to create and maintain your business. You’ve invested so much of your time and energy, and a lot of people are relying on its success.
One thing that could jeopardize your livelihood is a fire. Accidents happen everyday, but with the right preparation, you can have the peace of mind to know your business is operating safely.
Here are 5 tips for business fire prevention:
Prepare for the Worst
The main goal of business fire prevention should be to stop fires before they begin. However, it’s also important to prepare your building and employees for the worst-case scenario.
This preparation includes having sufficient fire exits, designated by a bright light or sign. Access to these exits must be clear at all times.
People often panic during intense situations, so a map of the building and nearest safety routes should be displayed in a common area. Emergency contact information should also be kept up to date and shared with all employees.
Having an updated plan of action in case of fire will keep your employees safe.
Have the Right Equipment
A responsible business owner should have all the necessary fire safety equipment, including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems. In addition, the equipment should be checked regularly and kept up to code.
Fire extinguishers, for example, lose pressure over time and can have a shelf life between five and 15 years. A regular inspection should be done to ensure the extinguisher is in working condition. Smoke detectors should also be tested regularly, and the batteries replaced each year.
Keep the Workspace Tidy
A cluttered workspace that is difficult to traverse in an emergency could be deadly. In addition, an overabundance of flammable materials such as paper or cardboard can put a building at risk.
Prioritize a workplace culture which encourages organization, cleanliness, and waste management. Everyone can do their part to keep the space clean and clutter-free.
Other things, such as how the furniture in the space is laid out, can also be potentially dangerous.
Keep flammable materials away from furnaces and heaters. Be careful not to overload outlets or run wires under rugs or carpets. Provide plenty of ventilation, especially for areas heated by machinery.
Practice Chemical Safety
All chemicals used in the workplace should be labeled and stored correctly. Workers who will be interacting with these chemicals should be trained properly beforehand and provided appropriate safety equipment.
Flammable chemicals especially, such as gasoline, should be kept in a designated cabinet. Only use these chemicals in a well-ventilated area.
It’s also important to keep ignition sources far away from all chemicals.
Have a designated smoking area for employees in a safe, outdoor area, and do not use sparking tools or machines near chemicals.
Prioritize Regular Maintenance
One of the most common causes of fires in the workplace is outdated or malfunctioning technology.
This is why it’s very important to keep all maintenance up-to-date, and fix any tech issues as soon as they are noticed. This includes faulty wires, heat inducing machines like computers, and electric tools.
The electric system of the building should be kept up to code. All breakers, outlets, and switches can be tested and verified to be working properly.
Business Insurance Agency Serving Maryland & Beyond
Be prepared for whatever life may throw at your business with Antietam Insurance. We provide a variety of insurance services for businesses located in Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Call today for a quote!