Looking for ways to keep your business safe? No matter what type of business you own, fire poses a significant safety and financial risk. Follow these three tips to protect your business, your employees and your assets from the devastation that can occur if a fire breaks out.
1. Install Fire Doors
Fire doors are essential for the safety of any business. Commercial rated fire doors allow you to partition your property to contain the spread of fire should one occur. One of the most common deficiencies found during fire inspections is improperly closing fire doors so you will need to make sure your fire doors operate correctly. Fire doors only prevent the spread of smoke and flame throughout a business when they close completely. Stanley door closers will automatically return doors to a closed position when they are not in use, protecting lives as well as the contents of your business.
2. Purchase Fire Protection Equipment
It’s important to stock your business with items that not only warn occupants when a fire breaks out, but also offer protection from a fire if it starts to spread. According to standard fire safety practices, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers must be placed on each floor of your business. Multipurpose extinguishers will combat flames with ease, clearing the way for your employees to exit the building. Finally, an automatic sprinkler system is a must-have for any business. Automatic sprinkler systems are often the first line of defense should a fire start, keeping the fire away from access points and giving your employees valuable time to escape.
3. Have a Plan
If a fire breaks out, your employees need to have a plan in place in order for everyone to exit the building safely and quickly. Designate one employee to fill the role of fire safety officer and delegate tasks such as creating exit routes and making sure all fire equipment is up to date. In addition, make sure your employees are aware of the location of fire extinguishers throughout your business. In order to make sure fire safety protocol remains fresh in the minds of your employees, conduct a fire safety drill at least once a year to take note of any areas of the plan that may need improvement.
Because your business is your livelihood, you should take steps to eliminate potential fire risks. By following these tips, you’ll reduce the risk of fire for your business, safeguarding your assets from damage and loss.