Checklist for Commercial Fire Safety

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Complete regular inspections of your building’s fire and smoke alarms.

Is your commercial building set up for safety if a fire occurs? It is up to business owners to make sure that their employees and customers are safe if a fire emergency occurs. It is imperative that not only employees and customers are safe, but that business equipment and data stays safe as well as the facility itself. 

The checklist below will assist you in making sure that your business is in 2020 NFPA compliance. 

1. Fire and smoke alarms - complete regular inspections of your building’s fire and smoke alarms.
2. Test fire extinguishers and suppression systems. Complete scheduled tests on all fire extinguishers and make sure they work properly and have the proper amount of pressure. Store fire extinguishers in well-marked easy to get to locations.
3. First Aid Kits - ensure first aid kits are easy to find and accessible. Replace any supplies regularly.
4. Emergency lighting - install lighting through the building in case you need pathways lit up for evacuation purposes if a fire occurs. Check lights to ensure they are in good working order regularly.
5. Fire safety training - make sure employees understand how to use fire safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and first aid equipment. Ensure employees have a basic understanding of fire safety. Fire safety training reduces the likelihood of small fires growing and the risk of injury.
6. Emergency evacuation planning - have an emergency evacuation plan and make sure employees understand the plan.
7. Remind employees of REACT:

• Remove from danger
• Ensure doors and windows are closed
• Activate a fire alarm
• Call 911
• Treat the emergency as dangerous 

There may be other requirements that are industry-specific so be sure to investigate those regarding your industry and location.