Loud groans probably emanate from your workplace when the time comes to learn fire safety at work. Then again, people who ignore fire work safety regulations often end up missing a hand so it’s probably wise to listen to the safety inspector. Three areas that are always covered during fire safety training at work are risk assessment, ways of escaping and preventative measures on your part.

When a workplace is assessed, the first thing that is checked is the identification of potential fire hazards in the workplace such as sources of ignition and fuel. Next to be analysed is the location of employees most at risk in the event of a fire and finding ways to get them safe. Then, it is decided whether the existing fire precautions are up to standard and whether there is more that can be done to prevent fires from starting. This normally includes checking that there are enough exits and ensuring that there is an efficient warning system in place. Once the assessment is completed, an emergency plan must be prepared and employees must be trained in fire safety precautions. This assessment must be carried out regularly and updated if necessary.

Fire work safety always notes the importance of staying away from the fire work and escape strategies always involve staying as far away from fires as possible. This means no fire-fighting is permitted unless it is a small blaze and employees are encouraged to move calmly but swiftly towards designated exits. Extra attention must be given to areas where fire warnings may not reach people, perhaps because they are in an isolated part of the building. Management must organise regular fire drills to ensure that every staff member knows what they are required to do. Usually, little tasks are given to several employees so it is essential that they learn how to successfully complete these assignments.

A fire needs three elements to start and thrive: ignition, fuel and oxygen. Fire safety training should teach staff how to reduce the sources of ignition. Open fireplaces should not be used. Instead, replace them with a central heating system. Electrical equipment should not be plugged in overnight, nor should sockets be overloaded with several plugs. To reduce the fuel available for a fire to grow, remove all flammable substances that are not absolutely necessary to the running of the business. Replace these with non-flammable materials and ensure that all combustible and flammable materials are handled and transported with the greatest of care. To reduce the oxygen levels needed for a fire to survive, close all windows and doors that are not required for work and never leave them open when the building is empty. Also, shut down all ventilation systems that are not vital to the workplace.

Just like fire work safety stops accidents occurring, a good fire safety training program at work will reduce the chances of a fire happening and ensure that all staff are properly trained to cope if one does happen. A thorough risk assessment must be carried out, proper escape routes should be mapped out and habits that could allow a fire to start and spread should be stamped out.