Across commercial, public, and residential properties alike, there can be all manner of dangers that the building owner, occupant, or user doesn’t even take much notice of, potentially until the worst happens.
When we use the term “fire hazard”, we are referring to any process, condition, or material that could drive up the likelihood of an accidental fire at the premises.
The hazards that we have highlighted in this article are certainly not the only ones you should be vigilant about in the management and maintenance of your premises.
However, in our capacity as experts in fire safety inspections and equipment servicing here at GWL, they are among the hazards that you might most easily overlook.
Flammable liquids stored in unsafe locations
Many of us take for granted the presence of cleaning agents, solvents, and other flammable liquids within the commercial or domestic buildings for which we have responsibility.
Moreover, it can be easy to become overly casual about exactly where and how we store those substances.
So, it is a good idea to periodically check that you are keeping any such liquids in their original containers, as well as that they are well-sealed and stored away from potential ignition sources.
Accumulations of dust
Dust can easily pile up on all manner of surfaces around a business or domestic property, to the point of seeming mundane.
But these apparently harmless specks of material can be very far from harmless if, for example, a fire starts in a space with little or no ventilation. Indeed, dust sitting around can heighten the risk of explosions in such circumstances.
This helps to explain why factories routinely install extractor fans to help keep the air in the premises free of dust. Such ventilation measures are something that you should be thinking about as you scrutinise your premises for possible fire hazards.
Overloaded sockets through the use of extension leads
The use of extension leads at a premises can sadly contribute to increased fire risk. After all, if a user of the building is effectively able to use five more sockets than the wall offers, they might easily end up inputting significantly more current than the socket is able to handle.
If an electrical surge occurs as a result of this, a fire that imperils life and property could be caused. This is why all occupants of a building should ensure that when high-power electronics are required, these are plugged directly into a wall socket.
Even if an extension lead is not being used in a particular space, occupants should closely monitor any electrical equipment that is switched on. This will enable them to react quickly to any safety issues that become apparent.
We routinely emphasise here at GWL, that the most proactive fire safety inspections, along with any maintenance and/or repair measures that may be needed, will greatly help drive down the risk of fires breaking out at a given premises.
Enquire to us today, and we would be pleased to discuss how we could work with you to give you peace of mind about servicing, maintenance, and fire risk management at your property.
