Why You Should Risk Assess Your Industrial Premises For Fire

Fire safety is paramount in any workplace, but industrial premises often present unique challenges due to the nature of their operations.  A comprehensive fire risk assessment is crucial for protecting your employees, your business, and your property.



What is a Fire Risk Assessment?

A fire risk assessment is a systematic evaluation of your premises to identify potential fire hazards, assess the risks they pose, and determine the necessary fire safety measures. This involves:

• Identifying fire hazards: This includes sources of ignition (e.g., electrical equipment, machinery, heating systems), flammable materials (e.g., chemicals, solvents, packaging), and potential sources of fuel (e.g., waste materials, storage areas).
• Evaluating who is at risk: Considering employees, visitors, contractors, and anyone else who may be on your premises.
• Removing or reducing hazards: Implementing measures to eliminate or minimise the risks identified. This could involve substituting hazardous materials, improving storage practices, or installing fire safety equipment.
• Recording findings & implementing preventative measures: Documenting the assessment, including the hazards identified, the people at risk, and the actions taken to mitigate those risks. 
• Planning for an emergency: Developing fire evacuation procedures, ensuring everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire.

The Importance of Risk Assessments for Industrial Premises

Risk assessments for fire are particularly important in an industrial setting, especially when heavy duty equipment is used on a regular basis. 

In particular, fire safety assessments are crucial for the following reasons:

Legal Requirements

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all industrial premises in England and Wales are legally required to conduct a fire risk assessment. This legislation places the responsibility on employers and building owners to ensure the safety of everyone on the premises.

Protecting Lives

Industrial settings often involve hazardous materials, complex machinery, and potentially dangerous processes. A fire risk assessment helps identify these specific dangers and implement appropriate preventative measures, such as:

• Safe storage and handling of flammable materials.
• Regular maintenance of machinery and electrical equipment to prevent ignition sources.
• Adequate ventilation and extraction systems to control the build-up of flammable substances.
• Clear evacuation routes and procedures tailored to the specific layout and hazards of the premises.

Protecting Your Business

A fire in an industrial facility can be devastating, resulting in:

• Damage to expensive equipment and machinery.
• Loss of production and business interruption.
• Potential environmental damage and legal liabilities.
• Damage to reputation and loss of customer confidence.
• A thorough fire risk assessment can help you implement measures to prevent fires and minimize their impact, protecting your business assets.

Insurance Purposes

Insurance companies recognize the heightened fire risks associated with industrial premises. They often require a detailed fire risk assessment as a condition of providing cover and may offer more favorable terms to businesses with robust fire safety measures in place.

Thameside Fire Protection: Fire Safety Risk Assessments for Your Business

Don't wait for a fire to highlight the weaknesses in your fire safety measures. Contact us today to schedule your fire safety inspection and ensure your industrial premises are compliant with fire safety regulations.