Tall buildings, particularly if you work on an upper floor, are natural fire hazards. They aren’t helpful if you’re trying to make a speedy departure and they can trap employees in the event of a fire. It is important to protect your workplace from fire hazards, especially if you work in a building with eight or more floors:

1. Don’t obstruct the fire escape or fire exits
2. Check electrical wires and cords often
3. Use junction boxes with built-in ground fault interrupters instead of extension cords, which you should avoid
4. Be careful with cigarettes and lighters
5. Store flammable substances correctly
6. Make sure heater vents aren’t blocked by long curtains or furniture
7. Avoid over-stuffing closets

Coffee makers, hot plates and even copiers and other heat producing equipment and electrical appliances are frequently overlooked as possible fire hazards. You should disconnect electrical equipment and call maintenance personnel if it breaks down or gives off an odd smell. Modern open office designs allow fire to spread fast and the addition of much synthetic and other combustible material in office furniture often makes “smoky” fires.

Avoid Creating Hazards

The best way to prevent fire is to be watchful for possible fire hazards. Know the location of fire extinguishers and other emergency equipment that is available to you. Think fast and act with caution, but keep your cool if you’re ever confronted with fire. Follow the company’s fire response procedures. Even if the fire seems small and you manage to put it out before the fire fighters arrive, never hesitate to call for help.

Be mindful of all potentially flammable materials and heated objects in your workplace. There are also other liabilities to be aware of besides hazardous materials, a major one being cigarettes. Many synthetic materials can also emit toxic materials during a fire. Listed below are some common safety issues and fire hazards found in the workplace. Most of the tips are easy and free to put into place immediately:

• Store items below shoulder height to prevent things falling onto people.
• Chairs should not be stacked too high otherwise they might topple.
• Take care that trailing cables are not a trip hazard. Use 'gaffer tape' or cable protectors.
• Keep cleaning chemicals and other substances in a locked cupboard.
• Certain equipment that you might have needs to be maintained and stored securely, such as lawnmowers, ladders and other maintenance tools.
• Wet flooring can be slippery so display a sign when the floor is wet (such as the free standing ones used in supermarkets).
• Ensure that lighting is adequate, which might need to include emergency lighting in some areas of the building.
• Use candles carefully, making sure that the candle is stable, in a flameproof holder and is not too close to anything that could catch fire.
• Don't store anything close to boilers, heaters or other heat-producing equipment.
• Balconies and other high-up areas need suitable handrails or balustrades. Restricting hinges or locks should be fitted onto any window above ground level.
• Take care not to try to carry too much at once when moving items, and make sure that you lift and carry correctly.
• Secure areas of the building where people should not be permitted.
• Always make sure that exits and fire exits are clear of obstructions.
• Don't prop open self-closing fire doors. Don't use fire extinguishers to hold open any doors.

How To Keep Your Workplace Safe From Fire Hazards

There are some easy things you can do to keep your workplace safe from fire hazards. Prevention is better than cure, so take a look around your workplace today to make sure it’s as safe as possible.