'Today, Monday 11th September sees the launch of Business Safety Week, a campaign being promoted by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC).
The week has been scheduled at a time when many firms and companies will be recruiting additional members of seasonal staff in the run-up to the busy Christmas period.
These new recruits may not have the same level of fire safety awareness as permanent members of staff, and may not be aware of the steps needed to protect themselves, their customers and colleagues. Fire safety inspectors believe the week is also an opportunity to remind employers of the need to review fire risk assessments and training, which will allow employers to make sure new and existing staff know the importance of fire safety.
Fire can cause major disruption for businesses which is why Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) is joining fire services across the country in engaging with businesses in the community, working with them to help improve their knowledge of fire safety.
TWRS will be asking businesses to:
- Ensure they have taken action to prevent fires in the workplace.
- Take action to protect themselves from arson.
- Ensure all staff know how to respond appropriately in the event of fire.
- Work with their local fire service to reduce false alarms, in line with TWFRS’ response to fire alarms.
TWFRS Area Manager for Community Safety, Keith Carruthers said: “This is a busy period for businesses in the run-up to Christmas. As part of the NFCC’s campaign, this is an opportunity to engage with local businesses to deliver key fire safety messages and ensure that fire safety provisions are compliant with the appropriate regulations.
“This week is also timely for businesses who intend to store and sell fireworks. They should ensure their premises have a current explosives licence, a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment and that adequate fire safety provisions are in place to store fireworks safely.
“We have a number of partnerships with business under the Government’s Primary Authority Scheme and promote the regional ‘Better Business for All’ programme. And while TWFRS supports businesses through engagement, we will also carry out enforcement when necessary.
“The safety of the public is at the heart of everything we do, therefore we will continue to work with our partners to support the business community of Tyne & Wear and promote fire safety compliance.”
NFCC Protection and Enforcement Lead, Mark Hardingham commented: "I’m delighted that the National Fire Chiefs Council is again working with small and medium size businesses to help them ensure they are able to operate in a way that is safe from the terrible effects of fire. These businesses make a massive contribution to the UK economy and local communities and we want to help them to do this in a sustainable and safe way."'
At Imperial Claims Consultants, we understand the importance of these communications to the general public. Even though it's still early, the fact is that the Christmas season will soon be here, and it is important to be prepared for it. Most fires start in the kitchens of our homes, and as the season when spend a lot of time near the pans, stoves and ovens, it is important to make sure you are prepared in advance. Make sure you check your fire alarms regularly, for example, to avoid any incidents during the festive season. Even if you are a company, it is important to check your safety measures regularly to keep yourself and your employees safe.
We have a lot of blog posts with advice and guidelines that you can follow, to make sure you are safe in your home or company. Read through our other blog posts , as they all provide essential information on how to deal with fires, floods, etc. and how to prevent them from happening. If you want more information about our services and what we do, you can check our website: www.imperialclaims.uk
For general business fire safety advice visit www.twfire.gov.uk/community-safety/business
Source - www.gov.uk/government/publications/business-regulation-better-business-for-all
