Fire code violations can have a business shut down. Adhering to fire codes is a crucial part of running a business, and key violations are often easy to avoid. The violations that are most common include:
- Passageway and exit door blockages. Emergency exit doors should be fully cleared so that it’s easy to escape in the event of a fire. Boxes, cages or other equipment which can block a door should be removed. If you discovered that your fire door is damaged, have it fixed by a fire door repair technician in the soonest possible time.
- Fire extinguishers. The extinguishers need to be routinely refilled and maintained by certified agents. All extinguishers need to be replenished even after a single use so that a business remains in fire compliance.
- Fire alarms. Annual inspection should be done on fire alarms along with keeping records of the inspection. Tests should be included.
- Smoke detectors. All smoke detectors must be kept in working order and be maintained regularly. Regularly scheduled Fire Sprinkler Inspections is also important in keeping your systems functional and code compliant.
- Cover plates. Cover plates should be placed over open electrical boxes and switches. Missing or damaged plates must be replaced.
- Electrical panel clearance. There must be a minimum of 30” of clearance across and in front of all electrical panels so that emergency crews can quickly access panels in a fire.
- Secondary exit signage and illumination. Signage and illumination are required for all secondary exists so that employees and customers know where to exit in the event of a fire. Businesses can purchase their needed signages at butlersigns.uk. Routine bulb checks will keep these areas properly illuminated.
Businesses should also make minimal use of extension cords and multi-plug adapters. These plugs should be used only for portable appliances and not be allowed to remain in place when these appliances are not in use.
If a business’s safety equipment is being repaired, stops working or construction is taking place, hiring a Security Guard Fire Watch will be able to mitigate risks and allow for proper safety to be maintained.
Logs are also very important.
Businesses are required to keep logs for their fire equipment inspections. Logs offer a means of ensuring that a business is maintaining its fire safety equipment to the best of their ability. If an inspector checked a fire extinguisher monthly and a day after a fire broke out the extinguisher didn’t work, the business can use these logs as proof that the business was not neglecting their fire safety commitments.
Fire prevention tips that can also be incorporated to keep fire risks at a minimum include:
- Type 1 hood/vent to exhaust cooking vapors
- Maintain occupancy ratings
- Routinely schedule a fire safety inspection every two years
- Designate a no parking, fire lane specifically for fire trucks
- Hire outside inspectors to make recommendations on fire safety equipment
- If equipment breaks or is no longer operating properly, quickly replace the equipment or have it repaired
Fire safety is about keeping your customers and employees safe in the event of a fire. Businesses also benefit from a lower risk of building and inventory damage. If fire safety codes are maintained, it’s one less thing that business owners have to worry about when running their business.
When in doubt, hire outside professionals to assess safety risks and make recommendations on what kinds of work zone equipment you need to make your business safer.