Top 10 Fire Safety Mistakes Businesses Make

Many businesses believe their fire safety arrangements are adequate, but fire risk assessments regularly uncover issues that could put people at risk. Even small problems can become serious hazards in the event of a fire.

Here are ten of the most common fire safety mistakes found in workplaces across the UK:

1. Out-of-Date Fire Risk Assessments
   One of the most common problems is fire risk assessments that have not been reviewed for several years. Fire risk assessments should be reviewed regularly and updated whenever changes occur in the building.
2. Blocked Escape Routes
   Escape routes must always be kept clear. Boxes, furniture, and storage items are often found blocking corridors and fire exits, which can delay evacuation during an emergency.
3. Fire Doors Wedged Open
   Fire doors are designed to slow the spread of fire and smoke. Wedging fire doors open prevents them from working properly and is a common issue in many buildings.
4. Faulty Emergency Lighting
   Emergency lighting is essential during power failures. Many businesses do not test emergency lighting regularly and faults go unnoticed.
5. Missing Fire Door Seals
   Intumescent strips and smoke seals are essential parts of a fire door. Missing or damaged seals reduce the effectiveness of fire doors.
6. Poor Fire Alarm Maintenance
   Fire alarm systems must be tested regularly. Lack of testing or servicing is a common issue found during fire risk assessments.
7. Overloaded Electrical Sockets
   Electrical equipment is a major cause of workplace fires. Overloaded extension leads and adaptors increase the risk of overheating and fire.
8. Lack of Fire Training
   Staff should know:
   • What to do in a fire
   • Where the exits are
   • How to raise the alarm
   Without training, evacuation may be delayed.
9. Missing Fire Safety Records
   Fire safety records should include:
   • Alarm tests
   • Emergency lighting tests
   • Fire drills
   • Maintenance records
   Fire authorities often request these records during inspections.
10. Poor Housekeeping
    Accumulated waste, cardboard and combustible materials increase fire risk. Keeping workplaces tidy reduces fire hazards significantly.

Professional Fire Risk Assessments

A professional fire risk assessment helps identify fire safety problems before they become serious risks.

Approved Fire Risk Assessments Ltd provides professional fire risk assessments for businesses across Kent and the South East.

If your fire risk assessment is overdue, we are happy to help.