At work

In 2003, there were 3,401 fires in industrial premises resulting in 3 deaths and 153 other casualties. Fire also costs money. On average, each fire in industrial/ commercial premises costs approximately £60,100.

All employers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of employees and visitors from the impact of fire during hours of work and at places of work.

You need to consider and address the following issues:
Have you carried out a fire risk assessment? Fire occurs when a source of ignition comes into contact with combustible material. Controlling one or other of theses elements greatly reduces the risk of fire.

  • Do you operate a good housekeeping/storage policy? Most process waste and general refuse can be easily ignited and badly stored goods may help to spread fire.
  • Do you operate equipment/machinery? If yes, do you have a maintenance policy? Inadequately maintained equipment/machinery has the potential to cause fire.
  • Do you use or store chemicals or other dangerous material? Are they safely used and stored? Such material can be a cause of fire.
  • Do you store or use LPG? Are they safely used and stored? Such material can be a cause of fire.
  • Are your heating and lighting systems efficiently maintained and adequately safeguarded? Systems that are not present a risk that could result in fire.
  • Do you have a system of safety checks at the end of the working day? Most big fires break out at night when everyone has gone home but they often originate during working hours.
  • Are your staff trained in what to do in the event of a fire ? Do you carry out fire drills?
  • Arson is a serious threat and all buildings are at risk. Have you assessed the risk to your premises? How effective is your security?

The following legislation applies to places of work - employers need to be sure of your responsibilities under these laws. Click on the links below for more details.

Fire Safety Order
The Licensing Act 2003
Other legislation

See details of our training courses, or for more information and advice, contact your local county safety office.

Download log books here:

Log Book - Alarm

Log Book - Drill

Log Book - Fire

Log Book - Extinguishers

Log Book - Faults

Log Book - Visits

Log Book - Hose Reels