Is your workplace fire safe-ready for a heatwave?

As the scorching summer months arrive, it's important to recognise that fire safety should remain a top priority within the workplace. While summer may bring images of sunny days and outdoor activities, and even a more relaxed attitude in the workplace, it also brings its own set of fire hazards that demand increased vigilance. Organisations should not underestimate the importance of fire safety, as it plays a pivotal role in protecting lives, property, and the continuity of business operations. In this blog we take you through a series of heatwave quick- win checks - from electrical devices such as air-conditioning and fans to checking that fire doors aren’t being propped open. Being hot also brings with it a number of health issues for people who may have long term health conditions. So, here's our tips on how to keep both safe and cool when the going gets hot… 

With Europe currently experiencing temperatures in the high 40s (Italy has already topped 48 degrees), staying cool and preventing fires from excessive heat brings with it all manner of challenges. The UK is forecast to get another heatwave this summer and while it won't reach the temperatures seen on mainland Europe, anything on the scale above 30 degrees can present issues in the workplace. Fire safety training is vital as it helps to protect staff and visitors in all business sectors from care homes to hotels. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, businesses are legally required to nominate a competent individual to undertake a fire risk assessment, create a fire emergency plan and implement a fire risk management system.

Fire safety risks in summer
Fire safety training is not only important for organisations but it could be the difference in reducing or eliminating risk of injury or death in an emergency fire-related situation. So, here are the main fire safety risks to be aware of during the summer months:

• • Barbecue fun, under the sun. This popular outdoor activity is often enjoyed by staff and residents of care homes, however both charcoal and gas BBQ’s come with their own set of fire risks that shouldn’t be underestimated. Never use flammable liquids on a BBQ, and place it away from any combustible materials which could catch fire. Create an exclusion zone around the cooking area where only certain people can enter, and have a fire extinguisher on hand. Also, do a sense check that the BBQ isn’t close to trees or hedges.
  • During summer when construction is at its peak and workloads increase, staff may become less vigilant, therefore increasing the risk of hazards. Fire hazards such as temporary lighting, hot working conditions and off-site smoking can pose significant risks - so ensure all equipment is used in a safe manner and keep flammable chemicals away from combustible materials.
  • Doors closed. The summer months can be long, hot and muggy at times. Many workplaces do not have adequate ventilation or air conditioning installed so staff often attempt to cool a building down by propping fire safety doors open. However, this is exceptionally risky as if a fire were to occur, the fire door wouldn’t be able to contain the flames, causing the fire to spread at a more rapid rate
  • Increased electrical output. Virtually every place of work is likely filled with electronic equipment - from computers and desk fans to charging points for phones and electronic devices, all of which have the potential to overheat and cause risk of fire. During the summer months, air conditioning and fans are being used more frequently so it is imperative that they are tested regularly to ensure they are in good working order.

Stay cool and safe
The hot summer months can be gruelling, but with a few key measures you can keep yourself and your staff cool during the summer to ensure a safer, more productive environment. 

Hydration is key - coffee and energy drinks are highly caffeinated which also act as a diuretic, causing dehydration. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Also, ensure you are providing access to chilled water for your employees whether that be cooled in a fridge or from a water cooler.

Summer attire - loose, lightweight cotton clothing that is breathable is always the best bet to beat the heat.

Air con on - Air-conditioning is one of the fastest ways of cooling yourself and your staff down during the hot weather. Whilst this isn’t possible for construction workers, in the instance of organisations, care homes, and within the hospitality industry, keep the air-con on to maintain a comfortable working temperature throughout the summer.

Windows closed - you may think that keeping the windows open in the hot weather will help, however if the temperature outside is higher than it is inside then you’re only letting the heat enter the building. For maximum impact if possible, keep curtains and blinds closed too.

Personal fans - where air conditioning isn’t an option, provide your employees and care home residents with access to their own fans. However, before doing so, it’s important to check fans are in good working order and are switched off at the end of the working day as faulty electrical equipment can present a fire safety hazard.

Our fire safety courses
We offer a comprehensive portfolio of fire safety courses, all of which are accredited or approved by the Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM). Delivered by our expert trainers, our in-depth courses consist of a variety of multimedia presentations and practical exercises to equip you with the theoretical knowledge and skills to enable you to confidently manage fire safety within your workplace - not just in the summer months, but all year round.

Ultimately, whilst you cannot foresee whether or not a fire will occur, by undertaking preventative measures this could be the difference in reducing or eliminating risk of injury, or even death in an emergency situation.

Find out more about our upcoming courses or contact our team on 01925 211488 who will be happy to help.