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In light of alarming statistics from the Association of British Insurers revealing that around 60% of private businesses never recover from a fire, it’s vital to review fire safety protocols in your workplace. With around 22,000 workplace fires occurring annually in the UK, safeguarding your organisation is essential - not just for compliance, but for the safety of your team and the sustainability of your operations.
This newsletter highlights the most common causes of workplace fires and provides actionable steps identified by IOSH as ways to reduce risks, ensuring your business stays protected.
Eight Causes of Workplace Fires and How to Prevent Them
Cause | Risk | Prevention |
Faulty or Misused Electrical Equipment | Damaged cables, loose wiring, or overloaded sockets can spark or overheat. | · Regularly maintain and test all electrical equipment. · Schedule Electrical Inspection Condition Reports (EICR) every 5 years. · Conduct PAT testing based on workplace needs and equipment type. |
Flammable or Combustible Materials | Improper storage of paper, cardboard, wood, or flammable liquids. | · Store flammable materials safely and dispose of them regularly. · Follow COSHH and DSEAR guidelines for handling hazardous substances. |
Dirt and Clutter | Dust, grease, and clutter can obstruct vents, overheat equipment, or block escape routes. | · Maintain a clean workplace with regular inspections. · Educate workers on the importance of tidiness. |
Human Error | Misusing machinery, neglecting safety protocols, or spilling flammable liquids. | · Provide thorough and regular health and safety training. · Train workers on fire safety procedures under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. |
Smoking | Discarded cigarettes can ignite flammable materials. | · Designate outdoor smoking areas away from buildings and hazardous materials. · Provide safe cigarette disposal bins. |
Cooking | Fires often start in kitchens due to open flames or flammable cooking oils. | · Display clear kitchen safety signage. · Train staff on handling kitchen equipment and fire emergencies. |
Arson | Unattended sites are vulnerable to vandals. | · Install CCTV, motion-sensor lights, and fire suppression systems like sprinklers. · Secure access points to the building after hours. |
Substandard Safety Measures | Out-of-date risk assessments and poorly maintained systems increase fire risk. | · Keep fire risk assessments updated. · Test fire alarm systems and conduct regular fire drills. |
Cost of Fire Safety Neglect
Failure to address these risks can lead to significant financial losses, operational downtime, and worst of all, harm to employees. Adhering to fire safety regulations not only ensures compliance, but demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of your staff and clients.
How We Can Support You
This newsletter is your reminder to take proactive steps against workplace fires. Protect your people, your business, and your future and make sure that the challenges of managing fire safety are not lost amidst other business priorities.
Clients are welcome to raise any concerns with our Consultant team, who would be pleased to advise you on any element of the issues arising from this newsletter.