Every workplace in Australia should have an up-to-date fire safety plan in place. But who is responsible for making sure it’s implemented and followed?
Fire safety is the responsibility of everyone in the workplace. Employers are responsible for creating a safe working environment, and employees need to be aware of the fire safety plan and follow the rules.
In this article, we’ll discuss the responsibilities of the business management and employees regarding fire safety. We’ll also provide information on the safety equipment that should be present in the establishment and some tips for preventing workplace fires.
Fire Safety Responsibilities for Business Management
Under Australian occupational health and safety laws, business management is responsible for ensuring that their building complies with all fire safety codes. This includes installing and maintaining fire detectors, sprinkler systems, and emergency exits.
Employees should be aware of the fire safety plan and how to evacuate the building in the event of a fire. They should also be trained in using fire extinguishers and other emergency equipment.
Businesses can be fined if they are in non-compliance with fire safety codes.
Fire Safety Responsibilities for Employees
Employees need to be familiar with the fire safety plan and evacuation procedures. They should also know how to use fire extinguishers and other emergency equipment in the event of a fire.
In addition, employees should not overload electrical sockets, smoke near flammable materials, or store combustible material in the workplace. The management should also conduct fire safety drills for employees every year.
Fire Safety Equipment Every Workplace Should Have
Sprinkler systems
Sprinkler systems are one of the most effective ways to control a fire. They are activated by heat and can extinguish a fire before it has a chance to spread. Business establishments should have sprinkler systems installed in all areas, including the kitchen and storage areas.
Emergency exits
Every workplace should have emergency exits that are clearly marked and easy to access. Employees should know how to get to the emergency exits, and they should practice evacuating the building in a fire drill.
Fire extinguishers
A fire extinguisher can put out small fires before they’ve even got a chance of spreading. Businesses should have fire extinguishers in strategic areas, such as the kitchen, workshop, and near flammable materials.
Fire alarms
Fire alarms are essential for warning employees of a fire. They should be loud enough to be heard throughout the workplace, and employees should know how to respond when they sound.
Fire hydrants
If a fire breaks out, it’s essential to access a fire hydrant. Businesses should ensure a clear path to the nearest fire hydrant, and employees should know how to use it. Hoses should also be kept in good condition and easily accessible.
Tips to Prevent Workplace Fires
Workplace fires can be devastating to the employees, business owners, and surrounding community. The good news is that there are simple tips to prevent most of these fires. These tips will help a business and employees stay safe in the event of a fire.
Tip #1: Establish a Fire Plan
The first step in preventing workplace fires is to develop a fire plan. The plan should include evacuation routes and how to contact emergency services. Employees should be familiar with the plan and practice it regularly.
Tip #2: Implement Fire Prevention Measures
In addition to having a fire plan, businesses should also take measures to prevent fires from happening in the first place. This may include installing smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, having a well-maintained building, and training employees on how to respond to a fire but also looking into passive fire protection such as installing fire curtains, fire doors, fire rated windows in your building.
Tip #3: Stay Alert
Employees need to stay alert and aware of their surroundings. This means keeping flammable materials away from heat sources, not smoking near flammable materials, and reporting any potential fire hazards.
Tip #4: Be Prepared
During a fire, employees need to know what to do. This includes evacuating the building immediately and not trying to put out the fire themselves. Employees should also be aware of the locations of fire exits and emergency escape routes.
Tip #5: Fire Drills
The best way to prevent a workplace fire is to go through regular fire drills. Employees should be familiar with the fire plan and know how to respond in the event of a fire. Businesses should also conduct regular fire drills to ensure everyone is prepared in case of an emergency.
Preventing workplace fires is everyone’s responsibility. By following these tips, businesses can help keep their employees safe and prevent a devastating fire.
Fire Safety At The Workplace: Final Thoughts
Fire safety is an essential topic for both employees and businesses. By following these tips, employees can help prevent workplace fires and be prepared in the event of a fire. Businesses should also implement fire prevention measures to help keep their employees safe.
If you have any questions about workplace fires in Australia, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Australian Fire Control. We have years of experience in the passive fire safety industry and can help you create a passive fire protection plan for your business, including the installation of steel doors, fire curtains and fire doors. Visit our website to learn more about how we can help you stay safe from work fires.
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