3 Common Causes of Commercial Building Fires
Fires can result in irreparable property damage, significant cost and serious injuries. At M.J. Fahy & Sons, we understand the importance of fire protection for buildings. We install and repair sprinkler systems to meet building code requirements.
If you are a commercial building owner, know these three common fire hazards.
Cooking Disasters
Whether you own a restaurant or have an office kitchen with appliances, cooking fires are a serious concern. Areas with ovens, microwaves and stovetops should be equipped with fire extinguishers and smoke/CO detectors. It is also a responsibility of the business owner to institute safety rules when these appliances are in use, such as:
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Keep loose-fitting clothing away from open flames
- Turn off the appliances when finished
Employees should be shown how to use the fire extinguisher and check or change smoke detector batteries.
Electrical Mishaps
While not all of us are experienced electricians, it’s important to keep an eye out for common electrical issues – like frayed cords – that could suddenly spark a fire. Employees should also notify management of overloaded power strips and misused extension cords:
- Extension cords can be a trip hazard
- There are different extension cords for indoor vs. outdoor use
- Extension cords are not a permanent wiring solution
- Poorly maintained extension cords and surge protectors present a shock hazard
- Do not plug surge protectors and power strips into one another
- Only one surge protector or power strip per outlet
Misused Space Heaters
If your commercial building has cold spots, you may use space heaters to keep employees warm in the winter. However, space heaters need to be maintained the same way as an HVAC system. Regularly check the ventilation for blockages that could lead to a fire and keep flammable items at least three feet away. When the building is unoccupied, space heaters should be unplugged.
To improve safety, one of the most critical steps for a commercial building owner is to institute a fire evacuation plan. In the event of an emergency, every employee should know:
- Where to find fire extinguishers and how to use them
- Where to exit the building
- Safe alternative exits
- Where to meet after the evacuation
- Who to call for help
Your commercial building should also have fire protection, including properly installed sprinklers and functional fire hydrants. To make sure your building is safe, contact the team at M.J. Fahy & Sons today!
