It’s safe to say that COVID-19 has had a monumental effect on our working environments. As new measures are put in place to ensure staff and shoppers can be socially distant, it’s important to ensure these new safety precautions don’t become accidental fire hazards. So, whether you’re a commercial or residential landlord here are 5 things you can do to reduce the risk of fire in your workplace in a post-lockdown world.
Check for accidental obstructions
As we adapt to new ways of working with re-designed workspaces, be sure to check that ‘new normal’ office features such as protective desk screens and hand sanitiser stations aren’t blocking fire escapes and exit routes.
Check your fire alarm
With offices and workplaces lying empty for weeks it may be that you’ve missed your regular fire alarm service. Or, it could simply be that your alarm system needs checking after a few weeks of non-use. Either way, it’s time to test.
Check your fire risk assessment
Your new look office may contain new fire risks. So now is the perfect time to review and update your existing policy to include new office equipment and office protocols that could impact the risk of fire in the workplace.
Check your evacuation procedure
Be sure to consider how your usual fire evacuation procedure may be affected by new measures to combat COVID-19. For example, the extra time it may take to evacuate large numbers of people who are also trying to be socially distant.
Check staff know the procedure
Whether or not your fire procedure has changed, it may still be new to staff members working in an office location for the first time. So be sure to run through the procedure with them, and also assess their personal needs and potential vulnerabilities.
So don’t forget: a well-planned return to work is a safe return to work. From fire alarm installation and maintenance to fire extinguishers and fire risk assessments, we’re the local, reliable choice for Essex & London.
Our fully-equipped team of engineers are perfectly primed to address any concerns you or your staff may have about ensuring fire safety alongside COVID-19 precautions. To find out more about how we can help you, contact us.
