When it comes to fire safety in the workplace, three steps must be carried out:

1. Look around your workplace and eliminate the hazards
2. Install a fire detection and alarm system to give early warning
3. Prepare an evacuation plan & practice it regularly

There are three types of fire safety controls:

• Active controls
• Passive controls
• Management controls

Active controls

The purpose of active controls are:

• To alert occupants to emergency conditions
• To initiate emergency response
• To enable occupants extinguish small fires
• To ensure defined and visible route of escape
• To ensure a constant supply of water

Equipment types include:

• Fire detection & alarm systems
• Escape/emergency lighting
• Fire extinguishers
• Hose reels
• Hydrants
• Fixed fire systems

Detection & alarm systems

• Must be installed serviced and maintained to IS 3218:1989
• Must be mains powered with battery backup
• Fire alarm panel must be checked for faults daily
• Weekly checks
• Three monthly check by a competent person certified
• 12 monthly check by a competent person certified
• Retain records

Break glass units

Emergency lighting

• Escape lighting
• Must be installed serviced and maintained to IS 3217:1989
• Inspect weekly
• Three monthly check by a competent person certified
• 12 month check by a competent person certified
• Retain records

Emergency exit signs

S.I. no. 132,1995- Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Signs) Regulations, 1995

Fire extinguishers

• Installed serviced and maintained in accordance with IS. 291- BS. 5306
• Selection based on risk assessment by supplier
• Should be positioned about one metre off the ground
• Inspect monthly for evidence that they work
• Test and inspect every 12 months by supplier
• Discharge Test: 25%
• Retain record of checks and servicing

Passive fire protection

Fire safety must taken into account when designing a building or changing the use of an existing building. Fire Safety Certificates are required for all building construction, alterations and extensions. Furnishings and fittings should satisfy required standards.

Fire doors

• Stop the spread of fire and smoke for a period of time
• A fire door cannot stop the spread of smoke and fire if it's open
• Should be fitted with a self-closer
• Must be kept shut - no wedges holding open
• Can have electromagnetic hold-open device connected to fire alarm

Fire training

• Statutory requirement to have staff trained
• Training must be specific to your organisation
• Training must be by a competent provider
• It must be assessed and repeated regularly

Fire drills

• Fire drills must be held a minimum of twice a year
• Simulate one exit blocked by fire
• Choose safe assembly area
• A procedure must be put in place to ensure the premises is vacated
• Keep a record & record any problems encountered

Record management

• All workplaces must have a Fire Safety Register
• Management functions
• Assigned duties
• Record of drills/evacuation
• Inventory of fire protection equipment
• Details of inspection & tests including certificates

Fire prevention

• Give heat sources adequate space for heat to dissipate
• Don’t overload electrical sockets
• Turn off all electrical appliances after use
• Avoid the buildup of papers and refuse
• Store combustibles appropriately - not along escape routes and not under stairs
• Maintain adequate means of escape
• Keep escape routes clear of all obstructions

To summarise

• Identify risks in your workplace and eliminate hazards
• Install service and maintain a Fire detection and alarm system, along with emergency lighting
• Provide, service & maintain fire extinguishers
• Train staff and practice fire drills