The importance of workplace fire safety training

Fire poses a major threat to every working environment in the UK. Often resulting in damaged property, serious injuries and loss of life, the impact of accidental fires should not be underestimated. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order, organisations have a responsibility to identify fire hazards, minimise risks and keep employees safe. 

Throughout 2017-18, the risk of fire remained just as potent as ever… 

• 564,827 incidents were dealt with by fire and rescue services 

• 30% of these incidents were fires

• 15,577 primary fires in non-domestic buildings

• 20 fire-related deaths in non-dwellings

• 551 fires in office buildings and call centres

• 3745 fires in retail and industrial premises

Common causes of fire at work:

Fires need a source of ignition, fuel and oxygen in order to start, but these are typically the most common causes of workplace fire:  

• Unsafe electrical equipment

• Dangerous substances

• Combustible materials                    

• Poor housekeeping

• Smoking                                         

• Cooking

• Unsafe working practises     

• Arson

• Portable heaters                          

• Human behaviour

The potential impact of workplace fire:

• Interrupted business operations            

• Damaged property and equipment

• Employee injury or loss of life                 

• Destruction of important documents

• Costly liability losses                                 

• Lost customers and clients

• Damaged reputation

Reducing the risk of fire:

• Carry out a fire risk assessment.

• Undertake identified recommendations 

• Periodically review the fire risk assessment.

• Ensure competent persons are appointed where necessary.

• Provide fire safety training.

• Maintain fire protection measures.

• Plan for emergencies.

• Implement safe working practices.

Infographic produced by Praxis42.