Warm Weather and Water Systems: Keeping Legionella Under Control
Legionella control is a year-round job, but warm spells can put extra pressure on cold water systems. Cold water that warms up is better for bacteria. Where warmth creeps in Cold water tanks in hot loft spaces or plant rooms. Cold pipes running next to hot pipes without insulation. Little-used outlets where water sits and […]
Hoses and Outdoor Taps: Easy-to-Miss Legionella Risks
Hoses, hose reels and outdoor taps rarely make it onto a water system checklist. Yet water can sit in them for long periods, and using them can create a fine spray. Why they matter Stagnant, warm water in a coiled hose can encourage bacteria. When the hose is used for washing, cleaning or watering, spray […]
Fire Safety for Charity Shops and Volunteer-Run Premises
Charity shops and community premises depend on volunteers, and volunteers change. Donations arrive in bulk and often end up stacked in back rooms. That combination needs a plan. Common risks Large amounts of donated textiles, books and paper. Stock piled in back rooms, stairwells and by exits. Donated electrical items awaiting testing. Volunteers who do […]
Working From Home or Running a Home-Based Business: Fire Safety Basics
A spare room full of stock, a garage workshop or a studio at the back of the house can change the fire risk of your home. The more your business looks like a workplace, the more it helps to think like one. Questions to ask Do employees, customers or visitors come to the property? Do […]
Storing Gas Cylinders Safely at Work
Gas cylinders are common in kitchens, workshops and outdoor areas, and a leak or fire involving one can escalate quickly. Sensible storage reduces the risk. Practical points Store outside where practical, in a well-ventilated, secure area away from drains, cellars and building openings. Keep them upright and secured so they cannot fall. Keep away from […]
Winter Heating and Fire Safety in the Workplace
When the weather turns cold, more heaters come out and more things get placed too close to them. A few habits make a real difference. Portable heaters Keep them clear of paper, curtains, stock and furniture. Plug them straight into a socket where possible, not into extension leads. See our guide on extension leads. Switch […]
Five Legionella Myths Worth Clearing Up
Legionella is often misunderstood. Here are five common myths. 1. “It only affects old buildings.” New buildings can have problems too, especially if water sits unused during construction. See our guide on new builds and commissioning. 2. “It comes from air conditioning.” Legionella grows in water systems. Showers, taps, tanks and some water features can […]
Seven Common Fire Risk Assessment Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
A fire risk assessment is only useful if it is accurate, current and acted on. These are some of the mistakes we see people ask about. Using a generic template. Your building, people and processes are specific to you. The assessment should reflect that. Not walking the whole premises. Stores, roof spaces, plant rooms and […]
Smoke Detectors, Heat Detectors and Beyond: Choosing the Right Detection
Not every part of a building needs the same type of fire detector. Using the wrong type can mean late warnings or constant false alarms. The common types Smoke detectors: typically used in offices, bedrooms, corridors and escape routes where early warning matters. Heat detectors: often used where smoke or steam would cause false alarms, […]
Fire Blankets: When to Use One and When to Walk Away
A fire blanket is a simple, useful piece of equipment for small fires in kitchens and canteens. Used properly, it can smother a pan fire quickly. Used at the wrong moment, it puts people at risk. Where a fire blanket helps Small fires in pans and fryers where it is safe to approach. Fires involving […]