Fire can have a devastating toll on businesses, destroying livelihoods and negatively impacting the community. They can also cause significant loss of infrastructure, income, productivity and stock. In devastating instances loss of life, injury, unemployment and bankruptcy can be the result of a fire.
It is important steps are taken to maintain a safe workplace and mitigate the risk of fire in your business. Some ways Businesses can protect themselves from fire include:
Having a safety culture. Simple precautions can prevent many accidental fires. Accidents and neglect, poor housekeeping, discarded cigarettes, hot work equipment, chemicals or unsafe work practices can all have tragic consequences.
Preparing and practicing an emergency evacuation plan. If your business is near bushland, you should also prepare and plan for the risk of bushfire. As a business owner or operator YOU are responsible for ensuring appropriate evacuation plans are in place and practiced, exit paths are clearly marked and clear of obstructions and suitable fire detection or containment equipment is installed and maintained.
Maintaining site security, especially after work hours. Insecure, vacant or easily accessed premises may become a target for the opportunistic arsonist. An arsonist can be motivated by many factors including business rivalry, spite/revenge, vandalism, crime concealment or financial reward.
Installing suitable fire alarm systems and fire extinguishers, and providing fire safety training to staff.