The best fire safety equipment in the world will not help if people do not know what to do. Staff awareness is a simple, low-cost way to make your workplace safer.
The basics every employee should know
- What the alarm sounds like and what it means.
- Where the nearest exits are, including a second route if the first is blocked.
- Where the assembly point is and why they must stay there until told otherwise.
- How to raise the alarm, including where call points are.
- Not to use lifts during an evacuation unless the building’s plan specifically says so.
- Not to stop for belongings or go back inside.
- Who the fire wardens are and to follow their instructions.
Everyday habits that reduce risk
- Keep escape routes and fire doors clear.
- Never wedge a fire door open.
- Report faulty electrical equipment, damaged cables or overloaded sockets.
- Keep waste and packaging from building up.
- Switch off equipment at the end of the day where appropriate.
- Report anything unusual, like a smell of burning or a blocked exit.
Make it part of normal life
- Include fire safety in induction for every new starter, on day one.
- Repeat key messages regularly, such as in team meetings or on noticeboards.
- Run drills so people practise what they have learned.
- Brief visitors and contractors on the basics before they start.
- Keep a record of who has been briefed and when.
Why it matters legally
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 expects employers to provide the information and instruction employees need to stay safe. The Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003 add a duty on persons in control of premises to take reasonable measures to guard against fire and protect people. Staff awareness supports both.
Next step
Your fire risk assessment will show what your people need to know for your premises, whether that is a small office or a busy production site. Call 086 275 9728 or email info@safersolutions.ie and we will help you take the first step. See our fire risk assessments in Ireland.