Decorations, parties and extra visitors all change the fire risk in a workplace at this time of year. A few simple checks can keep the festive season safe. Your fire risk assessment should be reviewed if what you do in the building changes.
Decorations
- Choose decorations that are flame retardant where possible, and keep them away from heaters, lights and electrical equipment.
- Do not hang decorations from or across fire detectors, sprinklers, emergency lighting or fire exit signs.
- Avoid real candles and naked flames.
- Keep trees, if you have them, watered and away from exits and heat.
Lights and electrics
Check lights and cables for damage before use, switch decorative lights off when the premises is empty and avoid overloading sockets. See our guide on extension leads and electrical fire risks.
Parties and extra people
- Make sure you do not exceed the numbers your premises is designed for.
- Keep exits, corridors and stairs clear, and keep exit doors usable. See keeping fire exits clear.
- Brief visitors and temporary staff on what to do if the alarm sounds.
- Do not allow smoking or cooking outside designated areas.
Closing for the holidays
Before you shut, walk the building, switch off non-essential equipment, empty bins and check that doors and windows are secure. If the building will be unused for some days, see reopening a building after closure for water safety on return.
Your duty
Under the Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003, the person in control of a premises must take reasonable measures to guard against fire and protect people if one occurs.
Need a hand?
Safer Solutions carries out fire risk assessments and supplies and maintains extinguishers. Call 086 275 9728 or email info@safersolutions.ie.