In every workplace, there is a need for a comprehensive range of measures to be put in place to protect employees from avoidable harm. Accidents in the workplace are one of the main causes of ill health; in many cases, these risks can be minimized with a robust culture of health and safety at work.
Millions of working days are lost each year to accidents and untoward events at work. They can range from simple slips, trips, and falls to serious injuries that result in extended periods of absence from work. One hazard in the workplace is the ever-present risk of fire. Faulty electrical sockets, overloaded appliances, and unsafe storage environments can increase the likelihood of fires breaking out. If a fire does occur in your workplace, there is a need to ensure all staff know what to do in terms of evacuating the building. This article will discuss some essential actions for employees regarding workplace fire evacuation plans.
Give roles and responsibilities to your staff
When a fire breaks out in the workplace, it can cause panic and confusion. There needs to be a clear chain of command that will ensure a rapid and safe evacuation. Offices and other workplaces should have nominated fire marshals who can take charge of the swift extrication from a building once a fire is identified. These staff will have received comprehensive fire safety training and will be able to lead other staff members to safety in the event of a fire. Fire marshals can also play a key role in preventing a fire from starting. They can undertake fire risk assessments to ensure that any hazards that may lead to a fire can be identified and removed or managed. In addition, all staff should be aware of their nearest exit in the event of a fire and should be trained to move swiftly and safely out of the building should a fire occur.
Training in the use of fire extinguishers
One of the key ways to combat and control a fire is by using a fire extinguisher. Organizations should ensure that they acquire a suitable number of these devices from reputable suppliers such as Seton. Such firms have years of experience in supplying fire extinguishers and other safety equipment to organizations and will be able to advise on the types and quantities of each extinguisher that will be needed based on the building and the activities that take place on-site. All staff should be trained in how to safely use fire extinguishers. They must feel confident that they can operate them and must also have a clear understanding of which types of extinguishers to use on specific fires (for example, electrical fires require CO2 or dry chemical extinguishers instead of conventional water extinguishers).
Regular fire drill practice
As a brief final point, it is vitally important to conduct regular fire drill practices in your workplace. Managers and fire marshals can oversee these drills, ensuring that staff evacuate quickly and safely. It can be beneficial to time the drill from the moment the alarm is raised to the point where all staff are clear of the building. Fire drills ensure that staff know where the quickest routes out of the building are and reinforce the need to move swiftly but safely and to leave possessions in the building.