In January 2021 a court established that ash left in a cupboard led to a fatal fire. Lawyers say the situation occurred as a result of ‘genuine errors.’ www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-55765595
Up to date risk assessments, procedures, and training are important they can prevent fire and they can save lives. Here are our fire basics and essential information:
The Fire Triangle
Fires need three things to start – a source of ignition (heat), a source of fuel (something that burns) and oxygen:
Removing any one element of the triangle will either prevent a fire or extinguish a fire.
- sources of ignition or heat include heaters, lighting, naked flames, cigarettes, matches
- sources of fuel include wood, paper, plastic, loose packaging materials, furniture
- sources of oxygen include the air in the atmosphere
The Law
If you own, manage or operate a business, you need to comply with fire safety law.
The main law that applies across England and Wales is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 or “the Fire Safety Order”. In Scotland, requirements on general fire safety are covered in Part 3 of the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005, supported by the Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006.
What does that mean, what do I need to do?
- A competent person must carry out a fire safety risk assessment and keep it up to date
- Ensure adequate and appropriate fire safety measures are in place to minimise risk
- Identify what could cause a fire
- Take action to control the risks, can they be avoided all together, if not, how do you manage the risk?
Here are some actions and controls:
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- Keep sources of ignition and flammable substances apart
- Ensure good housekeeping at all times – avoid the build-up of rubbish
- Consider how to detect fires and how to warn people quickly if they start, eg installing smoke alarms and fire alarms
- Ensure you have the appropriate fire-fighting equipment for putting a fire out quickly and ensure staff know where it is and have had appropriate training
- Ensure fire exits and escape routes are clearly marked and always clear of obstructions
Minimising the risk of fire and having up to date procedures that staff are fully aware of can prevent fires and ensure people are safe should a fire occur.
Further information can be found on the Gov.UK website.