Prepare Your Workplace for Fire-Related Emergencies

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is prepared to take action in Layton, UT.

Emergencies happen every day in commercial properties around the country, so it's important to be as prepared as possible before your Layton, UT, buildings are affected. Whether you spot flames caused by a short in an extension cord or a lightning strike has made the building unsafe, you need a thorough emergency plan in place with a specific routine outlined for each fire drill and evacuation practice.

Commercial Property Fires Are More Common Than You Think

It's easy to become comfortable in office spaces or rental buildings. Unfortunately, statistics gathered by fire protection professionals show that it's never good to become complacent; on average, 3,340 office properties in the United States experienced fires. The most common causes of fire in the workplace include:

• Malfunctioning electrical equipment or wires
• Improper handling of flammable chemicals
• Unprotected open flames
• Carelessness when disposing of cigarette butts and matches
• Inappropriate use of space heaters

Although fire prevention should be the responsibility of everyone who lives or works in your commercial properties, it's up to you to be sure you have the proper trainings and procedures in place.

A Safety Committee Is the Key to Successful Evacuations

As you create a fire drill and evacuation plan, begin by putting together a safety committee. This group of people will lead their teams in trainings, drills, and emergency evacuations. Ideally, these drills should take place every three months or more frequently. Next, post evacuation plans where all employees and renters can refer to and become familiar with them. Display contact information for emergency response teams and local storm and fire damage mitigation crews conveniently.

Don't Overestimate Employee Preparedness

If you've put these plans in place already, you may believe the people in your buildings are familiar with your work. Sadly, you may be surprised if you asked an employee to point out the exit doors. It's also pretty common for office furniture has been placed in front of an emergency exit! Take action today to make sure you conduct a successful fire drill every three months.