12 Fire Safety Tools Every Office Must Have for Fire Protection

No two businesses are the same. But all employers are responsible for the smart management of fire safety systems in workplaces. Irrespective of the size of the business premise, neglecting fire security can risk office safety. In the worst-case scenario, people present at the office during the fire breakout can lose lives. Make an organisation fireproof by enforcing fire protection protocols. The protocol necessitates the installation of a set of fire tools, such as:

Fire Extinguishers

The BS 5306 Standards are about fitting two high-quality and functional extinguishers on every floor. Based on certain building structures or designs, some workplaces might face a greater number of fire breakouts. The top five types of fire extinguishers are:-

• Dry powder extinguisher (Blue)
• Water fire extinguisher (Red)
• Wet chemical extinguisher (yellow)
• Carbon Dioxide extinguisher (black)
• Foam fire extinguisher (cream)

If not sure which one a building needs, arranging a fire risk assessment program can help decide the suitable one/s. The evaluation session also determines the best place for extinguisher installation to regulate the possibility of fire hazards.

Fire Alarms

It’s more for early detection of a fire. If there is a fire on the lowest floor of a building and the office at the highest or mid-floor realises it after the fire has engulfed the building, there remains almost no opportunity to escape for the people. A fire alarm detects even the smallest fire in an instant. Smoke alarms are equally effective in fire detection at the earliest. These alarms not only protect from fire but from CO leaks as well.

Fire Blankets

It is ideal for small office kitchens where fires are common. Installing one in an office cooking area stops sudden fire breakouts. You may find a wide range of fire blankets covered by a variety of casings.

Firetherm Intubatt

It is a fibre board that remains coated with fire-resistant material. Manufactured in a factory following certain specifications make it perfect for fire extinguishing. The smoke and acoustic sealing make this lightweight material an ideal fire prevention tool. From commercial locations to leisure facilities and hospitals, whenever there is a potential for fire breakouts, firetherm intubatt can slow down the spread.

Fire Barriers

There is a long list of fire barriers available in the market. An employer has complete freedom to choose the one that fits the purpose. It reduces the speed of a fire spread in compact building spaces. Installing them in a workspace prevents smoke and flame spread through the invisible voids.

Air Sealing

The UK Building Regulations have made airtightness an inexorable feature of commercial structures. The air sealing quality not only delays fire spread but also minimises sound disturbances. It functions as a passive fire protection characteristic of a building that offers enough time for visitors to vacate the site.

Fire Exit Signs

During a fire, staircases are the best escape model. It’s best to stay from lifts and escalators. In all sorts of buildings, stairs work as fire exist spots. It’s best to ensure the installation of at least two fire escape routes to save as many lives as possible. Make the signs large and legible for the best visibility and quick detection.

Sprinklers

These are ideal for extinguishing small fires or fires at the early stage. National Fire Chiefs are of the view that many fires are eliminated at the primary phase due to the quick functioning of sprinklers. 

Emergency Lighting

During most fire breakouts, the power supply is instantly ceased. It makes visibility an issue. Emergency lighting works best under such circumstances as it works on battery. The inhabitants or visitors of a building can empty a building with ease and safely.

Fire Safety Notices

It allows the habitants to understand where to head while a fire is raging through the building. Include the escape route/s in the notice to notify everyone about it/them.  

First Aid Kit

Even the best buildings can face fire hazards at times. Be prepared for situations when there is nothing you can do other than first aid. So, keep a fully-packed box in an easily accessible spot to help the injured. 

Fire Log Book

A fire log book helps you manage the necessary fire safety documents uniformly. A comprehensive fire protection system is not about the tools only. Being compliant with the new regulations and maintaining a foolproof safety checklist can protect a workspace from massive damage.

Final Thoughts

Commercial locations must be prepared against fires at any given time. Regular fire safety risk assessment, investing in a flawless fire protection system and identifying the risk areas can make a difference during a crisis. Choose a reputed fire protection service provider to ensure a safe office premise.