New Year Fire Safety Checks for Your Business

There’s nothing like a new year to hit home the notion that time is fleeting. Often enough, it evokes in us a sense of reflection; how could I have done things differently over the last year? How can I improve going into next year? Most people eventually settle on a change of diet and call it quits, but why stop there? You should also resolve to improve all aspects of your business in the new year, too. One key area you should focus on is ensuring the fire safety of your business is up to scratch, and here we’ll be looking at just that.

Fire Extinguisher Refresher Course

Ideally, you won’t have ever had to use your fire extinguisher. Unfortunately, that might mean you or your colleagues don’t know how to use it in the first place! This January, ensure you and your team of fire wardens know how to use a fire extinguisher safely and effectively by taking a refresher course with a fire safety professional. While you’re at it, also check to see if you need to have your fire extinguisher serviced, too.

Is Your Fire Risk Assessment up to Date?

A key responsibility of any employer or building owner is to ensure that the premises have had a full fire risk assessment carried out. Usually these are carried out annually, but if circumstances have changed at all on the property in the past year then you may need another one carrying out. Employ a professional to check over your premises thoroughly to guarantee full fire safety compliance.

Check Your Fire Alarms

It’s never a bad time to check that your fire alarms and smoke detectors are in full working order. Experts recommend that you check your detection systems on a regular basis to ensure that they are still fully operational. In some larger buildings, this might mean checking them once a week. Talk with your fire safety advisor to know how often you should check yours.

Check All Electrics

Nowadays we use electricity for just about everything we do, meaning that your business is likely littered with electrically powered machines and electrical conduits. If just one of these is faulty, it could spark a fire that could ravage your business premises and put people’s lives at risk. If you haven’t checked your electrics recently, book in a specialist to carry out electrical safety tests.

Know the Risks!

Thorough and responsible fire safety provision goes hand in hand with knowing the risks pertaining to fire that abound across your business activities and premises. Knowing all the risks means you can make preparations and work to avoid catastrophic outbreaks of fire.

Remember to communicate the biggest risks to your employees so they know how to avoid them. In addition, you should use the new year period to declutter your premises – clutter can impede evacuation efforts in the event of a fire, so keep your escape routes accessible!

For all your fire safety needs, Cheshire Fire are here to help. We provide a range of fire safety services including fire alarm installations, fire safety training and free site surveys across the Cheshire area. For a specialised and detailed fire risk assessment of your premises, contact our friendly team today.