How to Reduce the Risk of Fires in Hazardous Workplaces

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Hazardous workplaces are those that involve industrial machinery and work. This includes construction sites, mechanical garages, and any industry that deals with oil, gas, water, and fire. If you worry about hazards at work, then there are many ways to reduce that worry. 

Firstly, you can enquire about professional training so you know what hazards are and how to avoid them. Also, you should wear and use the appropriate equipment whilst working. A common worry is down to fires in the workplace, which can happen easily if you misuse or do not monitor equipment properly. For those concerned about fires in the workplace, here are the best ways to reduce the risk.

Use control valves in your tools

You can utilize a pneumatic control valve in tools or engines to help control and modulate the movement of gas and air. Misusing equipment or not having a control valve will mean the gas or air in your tool or part can move freely, which can increase the risk of fire. This is due to the air being easily flammable due to uncontrolled contact with flammable substances. Thus, using control valves in your tools will reduce safety hazards such as fires, as the air will be much less flammable. 

Keep fire exits clear

Fire exits are not often used, so it is easy to forget to keep it clear. We often place tools and other equipment there whilst working to keep it out of the way. But, if a fire was to break out, you would need to move it out of the way to get out, which could take too much time and increase the danger risk. Avoid keeping them cluttered for ease of use in the event of a fire. 

Unplug

Avoid overloading plug sockets, as this can increase the risk of a fire. Especially when the building is left unattended during break hours or overnight. After using a plug always ensure to unplug the equipment, or at least turn it off. Plugs can easily overheat as is the most common cause of an electrical fire. Whether it be a laptop, fan, or kettle, turn off every appliance that can be turned off when left unattended or you have finished using it.

Regular fire alarm tests

While this may sound like a given, it’s easy for companies to get caught up in business and forget to test their alarms. But of course, having a fire alarm that doesn’t work is just as ineffective as not having one at all. You can make sure that you don’t forget about this by having a maintenance schedule and contract in place for your fire alarm system so that it is regularly tested.

Do not smoke

Smoking in the workplace should be avoided as not putting the cigarette out properly can cause an instant fire. If smoking is allowed, ensure it is in a designated area that is away from flammables. Plus, ensure to always put out the cigarette properly before disregarding it.

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