For many commercial property owners, discussions around fire alarm protection are often initiated by third-party organisations such as insurance companies, local fire officers, or fire risk assessors. Unfortunately, it is often only after a fire incident that businesses take fire safety seriously.
Each year, there are around 20,000 fires at commercial premises in the UK. Statistics reveal that a high number of affected businesses suffer such severe disruption and financial loss from the fire damage and subsequent downtime that they close permanently within two years of the incident. This is not even considering the devastating potential for serious injuries, or worse, to employees and visitors at the time of the fire. Proactive investment in fire protection can safeguard your business, reputation, and the well-being of everyone on-site.
At ARC Fire Safety & Security Ltd, we have highlighted the top fire risks in the workplace and explained how you can prevent them to protect your people and property.
1. Faulty Electrical Equipment
Faulty or poorly maintained electrical equipment is one of the leading causes of workplace fires. Overloaded sockets, frayed wires, and malfunctioning machinery can easily overheat and ignite surrounding materials.
Prevention Tips:
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Schedule regular electrical inspections and Portable Appliance Testing (PAT).
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Replace damaged cables and faulty equipment immediately.
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Avoid overloading power strips and extension leads.
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Ensure all electrical appliances are switched off when not in use.
By installing early-warning fire alarm systems from trusted providers like ARC Fire Safety & Security, you can quickly detect electrical fires and respond before major damage occurs.
2. Improper Storage of Flammable Materials
Many workplaces store flammable substances such as cleaning products, paper supplies, solvents, and fuels. Without proper storage, these materials become a major fire hazard.
Prevention Tips:
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Store flammable liquids and chemicals in fire-resistant cabinets.
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Label storage areas clearly and train employees on proper handling.
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Keep fire exits and escape routes clear of flammable items.
At ARC, our team can conduct thorough fire risk assessments to identify dangerous storage practices and recommend safer alternatives to reduce your fire risk.
3. Human Error
Human error is a surprisingly common cause of workplace fires. Activities like leaving cooking equipment unattended, careless smoking, or improper use of heating appliances can spark fires within seconds.
Prevention Tips:
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Train staff regularly on fire safety protocols.
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Mark designated smoking areas far from the building.
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Install fire door retainers to ensure fire doors operate correctly and safely, helping to contain any fire.
ARC Fire Safety & Security offers fire safety training programmes that empower your staff to act responsibly and respond effectively during emergencies.
4. Lack of Fire Safety Measures
A workplace without adequate fire detection and suppression systems is highly vulnerable. In some cases, businesses are non-compliant simply because they don’t realise what measures are legally required.
Prevention Tips:
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Install appropriate fire alarms, including wireless fire alarm systems where necessary.
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Equip premises with the right types of fire extinguishers.
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Regularly test alarms, extinguishers, and emergency lighting.
At ARC, we supply and install a wide range of fire alarms and wireless detection systems to ensure fast, reliable alerts that can save lives.
5. Outdated Fire Risk Assessments
A fire risk assessment is not a one-time task. Business operations evolve, and so do fire risks. An outdated or incomplete assessment leaves dangerous blind spots.
Prevention Tips:
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Carry out a fire risk assessment at least once a year or after major changes in operations.
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Keep records of all findings and actions taken.
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Implement all recommendations promptly.
Our qualified assessors at ARC Fire Safety & Security conduct detailed, compliant fire risk assessments, giving you peace of mind that your premises are safe and compliant.
6. Failure to Maintain and Service Fire Alarm Systems
Simply having a fire alarm system installed is not enough — it must be regularly inspected and maintained. UK regulations state that fire alarms in commercial properties must be inspected at least twice a year by a competent and accredited fire alarm service provider. Failure to comply could result in penalties, increased insurance premiums, or even prosecution.
Prevention Tips:
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Schedule professional servicing every six months.
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Maintain a logbook of fire alarm inspections and testing.
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Promptly repair or replace any faulty components.
At ARC Fire Safety & Security, our expert technicians provide certified fire alarm maintenance to ensure your systems are fully operational, compliant, and ready to protect your business when needed.
Why Choose ARC Fire Safety & Security?
At ARC Fire Safety & Security, we specialise in helping businesses across the UK identify fire risks, improve safety, and stay compliant through professional fire alarm installations, comprehensive fire risk assessments, expert training, and the latest fire safety technologies like wireless fire alarms and fire door retainers.
Get in touch today for a FREE consultation or visit our website to discover how we can help protect your business, your employees, and your future.