We have all seen numerous fire safety equipment and signs in shops and other commercial places. But have you wondered what they are used for and why it is important to have them? As per the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, every business owner in England must “take general fire precautions to ensure the safety of his employees”. Apart from conducting regular fire safety risk assessments and providing adequate staff training, employers must also install appropriate fire safety equipment and tools on their business premises to minimise the risk of fire. Since there are no specific guidelines for different business premises, owners must carry out a fire risk assessment, identify the biggest fire safety risks, and then choose relevant fire safety equipment for their building. Here are some of the most essential fire protection equipment you need in a workplace:
Fire Extinguishers
All commercial places must have fire extinguishers. Since they are the first line of defence in the event of a fire, they need to be installed at accessible and visible locations. Based on the fire risks identified, your premises may need different fire extinguishers such as CO2 fire extinguishers, water fire extinguishers, foam fire extinguishers, wet chemical, and powder fire extinguishers, in different areas. Business owners must ensure that all fire extinguishers undergo regular maintenance and servicing to remain in optimal working condition at all times.
Smoke & Fire Alarms
Along with tools that fight or prevent fire, your workplace must also have equipment that detects fire. Smoke and fire alarms are one of the most reliable tools for detecting a fire. Once triggered, they can alert the occupants in the building to evacuate the premises and get to safety. In a majority of workplaces, smoke and fire alarms are mandatory.
Fire Signage
Installing adequate fire signs is a must in all commercial buildings. Fire signs help people deal with fire appropriately by highlighting safety procedures, giving directions to firefighting equipment and fire escape plans, and indicating emergency exits. You also need to ensure that your emergency exits are properly illuminated and easily recognisable at all times.
Fire Prevention Systems
Several active and passive fire prevention systems need to be installed in a commercial building. Some of the most common ones include:
- Water Sprinklers & Sprays
- Fire-Resistant Insulation
- Fire Doors
Fire Escape Equipment
An effective fire safety plan always includes a safe and reliable means of escaping the fire. Fire escape ladders can be installed on your premises for this purpose, after consultation with your structural engineer.
Medical Equipment
Along with this fire safety equipment, commercial buildings must also have fire blankets and a first aid kit that has medication specifically meant for treating fire burns and related injuries. The fire safety training process must include teaching basic first aid to the members of your staff so they can help others when needed.
Installing the right fire safety tools and equipment is vital to the safety of the people inside the building. As one of the leading fire safety and security specialists in Leicestershire, we understand the impact of high-quality fire equipment on the lives of people and provide the best products and services to our commercial customers. You can learn more about our products and services by contacting us on 0116 224 3478 or emailing us at info@lnsfireandsecurity.co.uk.