With so many people passing through a hospitality company’s doors each day, fire safety plays an important role in managing the business.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 dictates that fire risks must be assessed and action must be taken to prevent issues arising. Here are just a few tips to help users ensure their business is compliant with the law and that people are safe.
Fire risk assessment
A fire risk assessment plays a fundamental part in any fire safety plan, so it’s wise to make this one of the first steps. The fire risk assessment must identify:
- Potential fire hazards. Take heaters, electrical equipment, naked flames, sources of ignition, and smoking areas.
- Who is at risk? In the event of a fire, everyone within the building will be at risk. Consider how these people are affected and how well-equipped they are to escape safely. Members of staff, for example, should have a good understanding of the building’s layout, but guests, customers and visitors will need extra support and guidance.
- Is the evacuation plan? Consider whether any changes need to be made so that everyone can evacuate the building safely. Question whether one has sufficient sources of fire detection and prevention so that action can be taken quickly.
- Record the findings. When carrying out a fire risk assessment, keeping a record of the findings is essential. Not only can this help users implement life-saving safety measures, but users can also protect themselves from a legal standpoint.
- Keep the fire risk assessment updated. The risk assessment must be regularly updated, particularly following any changes to the building.
Train the staff
In the event of a fire, the staff will play an important role. When a fire alarm sounds, most guests and customers will look to the staff for guidance. By ensuring that the staff are prepared, owners can increase the likelihood that everyone gets out quickly.
Make sure the employees know of the nearest escape routes, have a thorough understanding of their responsibilities, and are willing to play an active role in keeping the premises as safe as possible.
Regular evacuation drills
The average person has grown used to fire drills, having experienced their fair share of practise runs from the days of primary school right through to their time in the workplace.
But when fire drills become routine, it’s not uncommon for people to pay very little attention and forget what to do in an emergency. Make sure the employees not only know their primary escape route, but they also know alternatives in case that option is blocked.
The above fire safety tips for the hospitality sector can help users lay the groundwork for a thorough and reliable fire safety plan, but there is so much more to consider.