Why is fire safety important for small businesses?
July 2023
Understanding Fire Incidents
Let’s face it—fires happen. As of September 2022, 620,758 incidents were attended by Fire Rescue Services (FRSs) which is the highest it has been for a decade. We’re not trying to scare you, but it’s important to know that fires affect real people and have consequences.
Talking Finances
Now, let’s talk about money. A serious fire can be costly. In 2020, the total cost, including damage, injuries, and business interruptions, was a staggering £2.5 billion. That’s a lot of money that could be better spent on growing your business.
Understanding Your Legal Responsibilities
As a business owner in the UK, you’ve got some legal responsibilities for fire safety. Regular risk assessments, written down if you have five or more employees; telling your team about risks, keeping safety measures up, planning for emergencies, and making sure your staff know about fire safety—these are all part of the deal.
Using tools to combat fire
You can find a template fire risk assessment as well as an “Introduction to Fire Safety” on the portal to get a head start. Let’s review the other fire safety responsibilities you should be aware of to prevent a fire from starting in the first place:
Appoint a “Competent Person”
You must appoint one or more competent individuals, based on the size and purpose of your businesses, to carry out preventive and protective measures. A “competent person” possesses sufficient training, experience, knowledge, and other qualities to effectively implement fire safety measures.
Get the word out
Provide everyone in your business with clear and relevant information about the risks identified by the fire risk assessment, preventive measures in place, and how these measures will protect them in case of a fire. An appropriate training program can give instruction and guidance to all employees. Don’t forget to inform contractors and visitors of how to get to safety in case of emergency.
Get to know your neighbours
Work with any other responsible persons in the building whether it be an office, industrial park, or shared space. Make sure you communicate any significant risks and outline how you intend to reduce/control those risks affecting the safety of other businesses.
Maintenance of Premises and Equipment
Ensure that premises and any firefighting, fire detection and warning, or emergency routes and exit equipment are covered by a suitable maintenance system and are maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order, and in good repair by a competent person.
Meet Your Fire Heroes – Fire Wardens
Having a fire warden (or a few!) is a smart move, even though it’s not a must. We recommend one for every 50 employees. They’re like unsung heroes during a crisis.
