19 July, 2019

Fire safety has come a long way since the recent occurrence in a commercial complex in Surat, which killed 20 young innocent students. Fire accidents can occur almost anywhere however, special care needs to be taken at workplace. Fire breakout at workplace can be most devastating incident as it can have serious repercussions and injuries to individuals and assets. Countless fire accidents occur at workplaces that lead to fatal incidents and cause a major damage to properties. With the increasing number of fire accidents it becomes important for organisations to train ourselves & co-workers with fire safety & firefighting procedures.

Basic Fire Safety Responsibilities:

• Fire Risk Assesment must be undertaken to identify risks at the premises.
• Ensure fire safety measures are appropriately placed
• Plan for Emergency Situations
• Train your staff with fire safety instructions and training

How to keep Workplace Safe?

• Ensure the panels are not blocked, these are used to shut down power in case of emergency. Also ensure that sprinklers, firefighting equipment and emergency exits are always accessible.
• Avoid clutter at workplace as it can add fuel to fire. Declutter your workplace and make sure that necessary equipments are stored at a convenient place.
• Regularly check machines and maintain them to avoid unexpected friction and sparks. For safety, record your findings and ensure regular maintenance
• Do not make an attempt to repair electricals unless trained to do so.
• Make sure there is a proper outdoor smoke area and it is being used by the staff.
• Electrical circuits should not be overloaded with more than the recommended capacity. Overheating of circuits can create a major fire hazard
• Always have requisite type and number of fire extinguishers and make sure the staff members in the area are aware about the process of operating it in case of emergency.
• Install proper fire detection system. Most of them are automatic but if they are manual the staff must be trained to use it.
• All emergency routes and exits must have sufficient lights. Test them regularly and maintain the

Respond to Fire at Workplace

• Perform fire safety drills regularly at workplace
• Raise the alarm if it’s a manual one
• Leave the area under fire immediately and close the doors. Make sure the evacuation is prompt and calm.
• Turn of Hazardous machinery, don’t stop to collect personal belongings
• Gather at an assembly point. Make sure the location of assembly point is easily accessible for the staff.
• Never run around if your clothes catch fire. When your clothes catch fire immediately stop and drop to the ground and roll to smother the flames.