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While most fire fatalities happen in the home,
it is just as important to have a clear fire safety plan at work
in the event of an emergency. It is the employer’s responsibility
to teach employees about the fire prevention plan. Employers are
also responsible for conveniently placement of fire extinguishers
that can easily be reached in case fire happens. For all units on
the premises, the employer must arrange for an annual fire extinguisher
servicing to make sure all extinguishers are in work properly.
The U.S. Department of Labor, through the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has strict regulations
regarding any fire equipment provided by an employer in the workplace.
These regulations can be viewed on the department’s website.
For example, in the event that an employee has to put out a fire
started by burning papers, a portable Class A extinguisher must
be no more than 75 feet away from that employee. If there is a
fire hose instead of a portable extinguisher, the staff must be
retrained annually in its proper operation.
Some larger companies elect to have an employee
take on the responsibility of office fire warden. This individual
must understand how to evacuate the building, how to operate the
building’s fire equipment, and be aware of local fire code
regulations. There are generally one day courses that teach all
the components of workplace fire safety. Contact your local fire
service to find out if they provide training programs for workplace
fire wardens.
OSHA consultants can also provide free resources
about workplace safety and help your company develop a complete
safety plan for all your employees. The consultants can instruct
you in all aspects of equipment safety and review any existing
health or safety plans that are in place for employees. If the
consultants do find current safety issues, such as insufficient
fire sprinklers, there will not be a penalty charged to the company
undergoing a free assessment. Full details about this service
can be found on the OSHA website.
While the employer is held responsible for all
aspects of workplace safety, it is best to foster a team environment
where all staff work together to follow fire safe guidelines.
Make sure that regular fire drills are held, and that everyone
understands the office evacuation plan. Your employees are a valuable
resource.
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