Easy tips to prevent office fires

It is common practice for offices to perform routine fire drills or regular fire alarm system tests… but this is where most businesses stop when it comes to fire safety hazard awareness and training. 

However, there are several common hazards in the office which are simple to become aware of and can reduce the risk of fire in the first place if measures are taken to prevent them.

Here are 5 common fire hazards in the office  

1. Office space that is left cluttered.

By leaving unnecessary items lying around – particularly paper items, such as sticky notes, files or other papers – you are increasing the risk of fire spreading if one were to break out. This combustible hazard would be very easy to ignite if a fire were to break out near it. Also, a build up of this or similar material can add to dust and grease around electrical equipment which is also flammable.

2. Overuse of extension leads and plug sockets.

Electrical fires are most commonly caused by overusing plug sockets, normally through extension cables. If too many pieces of equipment are plugged in, this hazard will cause it to overheat. Also if the extension leads used are of low quality, or do not have a protection against power surges, it is likely this equipment could also overheat.

3. Using portable electric heaters.

The use of these heaters increases the risk of fire in itself. However, if they are plugged into extension leads and closer than 3 feet to other objects, you are directly increasing the risk of combustion. It is also beneficial to not leave a portable heater unattended and to ensure that it is independently tested for your safety.

4. Accidents and human error.

While most mistakes are genuine accidents, more often than not mistakes can be prevented by taking more care. Office fires can start simply by tripping over a loose wire and spilling a drink, for example. Take extra care when in an office environment to protect yourself and your colleagues from fire.

5. Wires that are exposed or faulty.

If a wire is exposed or faulty, it goes without saying that this could give you a nasty electric shock. But, additionally to this, the sparks from an electric shock are also capable of starting a fire. Particularly in an office with different types of flammable material. It is important to inspect wires when possible to minimise this hazard.

Other fire hazard quick wins

There are other things you can do around the office to ensure the safety of yourself and colleagues. Here are our top tips.

Fire hazard top tips 

• Regularly check all cables
• Tidy away any lose items (particularly papers)
• Ensure all escape routes are clear
• Regularly practise your fire evacuation plan

We hope this short guide was useful in providing actionable advice to protect your office building and colleagues from fire.