A fire in your business can quickly destroy inventory, computer equipment and other assets, and it can threaten employees' lives. Reduce your fire risk and help ensure everyone gets out safely by following practical fire safety steps.
Provide Two Exits
Your business should provide at least two exits. Keep all exits unobstructed, clearly marked and labeled at all times so staff and visitors can find them quickly in an emergency.
Create a Detailed Evacuation Plan
Don't just tell employees to leave a burning building — create a detailed evacuation plan that clearly marks escape routes from every area of your property. Include the number of steps to each exit when visibility may be limited, and post the plan in prominent places around your building.
For additional planning resources, consider Fire Safety and Evacuation Plan.
Practice Escaping the Building
Even a thorough evacuation plan is ineffective unless people know it. Schedule regular drills so staff can evacuate safely from any location on the premises. Make provisions to assist and rescue disabled employees and visitors, and assign someone to perform a headcount after each evacuation.
Install a Fire Suppression System
Many businesses are required to have a fire suppression system before opening. If your building does not have one, consider installing a system that activates when temperatures rise or when the emergency switch is used. Test the system regularly to ensure it functions properly.
For information about insurance related to sprinkler systems, see Fire Sprinkler Insurance.
Purchase Fire Extinguishers
Place fire extinguishers strategically throughout your building and provide employee training on how to operate them safely and effectively.
Reduce Fire Hazards
- Designate a smoking area away from flammable objects and provide proper receptacles for cigarette butts.
- Remove excess paper, trash and other combustible materials from work areas.
- Give electrical equipment, including computers and office machines, adequate clearance to prevent overheating.
- Avoid overloading circuits and limit the use of extension cords.
- Do not bend, crush or damage electrical cords; replace frayed cords promptly.
- Unplug appliances when they are not in use.
- Use, store and dispose of hazardous materials and cleaning chemicals safely and according to instructions.
- Report fire hazards to maintenance immediately and encourage staff to do the same.
Never Ignore a Fire Alarm
Treat every alarm as a real emergency, even if you suspect it may be false. Make sure staff understand the importance of evacuating immediately when an alarm sounds.
Fire safety matters. Follow these tips and discuss with an agent to ensure you have adequate coverage and assistance maintaining a safe workplace.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should we conduct fire drills?
Conduct drills regularly—many companies do them at least twice a year—and increase frequency if your workplace has higher fire risk or staff turnover.
Do all businesses need a fire suppression system?
Requirements vary by local code and the type of business; assess your risks and consult your local fire authority or insurer to determine whether a suppression system is needed.
How often should fire extinguishers be inspected?
Perform monthly visual checks and have extinguishers professionally inspected and serviced according to manufacturer recommendations and local regulations.
What should an evacuation plan include?
An evacuation plan should include clear exit routes, assembly points, procedures for assisting people with disabilities and assigned responsibilities for staff during an evacuation.