No matter which way you look at it, the best method of protection is prevention. At Jim’s Fire Safety, we are fire protection experts. Take a look at these key fire prevention measures you should consider taking in your building.
If you have any further preparation questions, we encourage you to get into contact with your local Fire and Emergency New Zealand branch.
Fire Prevention and Protection Measures
Fire prevention plans are really useful for facility managers or building managers. It is their job to manage the building and do final checks after hours. This includes the important tasks of locking up and securing the building and checking that escape routes are clear.
The following fire protection checks are essential for building managers:
- checking that evacuation paths are clear and emergency exits are unobstructed
- checking that fire protection equipment has not been moved or blocked
- performing perimeter checks ensuring that bins are locked and any flammable materials are removed
There are, however, many other fire prevention measures that are not always the responsibility of the building manager. If you own or operate a business, you need to ensure that there is proper access to fire protection equipment.
Fire Equipment Services
At Jim’s Fire Safety, we offer fire protection services to businesses all around New Zealand. There is no better way to make sure your building is prepared.
All you have to do is book an appointment with one of our technicians to ensure that:
– each device is functioning properly
- your fire protection equipment is installed and located correctly
By making sure that you have functional fire protection equipment, you are protecting your business and employees. It is also advised to invest in safety training for your employees so they know how to operate the equipment during an emergency.
Basic Fire Prevention Measures
We highly recommend nominating a fire warden and having them conduct a risk assessment to determine which fire prevention steps are most relevant for your building. The following list of basic prevention measures is a great place to start:
- have a designated smoking area and metal bins for butts
- make sure flammable liquids are not stored near heat sources
- have your electrical appliances properly tested and tagged
- clean work areas, cooking equipment, and ventilation systems regularly
- ensure the correct usage of portable heaters and fans
- prevent overloading of power boards or extension cords
- conduct security checks for arson prevention
Ongoing risk assessments will help you identify and combat fire hazards that are specific to your business. It is important to have ongoing evaluations and ensure the safety of your staff.
Architectural Fire Safety Measures
There are a number of architectural features your building may have that work towards fire prevention. These features include:
- fire doors, walls, and ceilings
- sprinkler systems
- smoke alarm systems
- extinguishing systems
Every commercial building should have at least one of these features. For more information about your requirements, take a look at the NZ building code for protection from fire.
The importance of fire safety measures cannot be overstated.
It’s all about protecting people in and around your buildings and premises, limiting the spread of any fire and helping firefighting and rescue teams to do their job effectively.
Contact Jim’s Fire Safety
If you found this article helpful, or you’d like to know more about the fire prevention measures we offer, please get in touch now.
The only way to protect your building is with a proactive strategy. Act now to make sure you don’t regret it later.
