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7 Essential Workplace Fire Safety Tips For A Safe Australian Summer


Workplace Fire Safety Fire Extinguisher


As the summer heat intensifies, it's important that workplaces are vigilant about fire safety - particularly  in areas prone to bushfires. 


To ensure the safety of your staff, workplace and operations during this fire season, here are 7 essential steps to stay prepared ...


1. Develop a Workplace Fire Safety Plan


A clear plan ensures your employees know exactly what to do if a fire threatens your workplace.


  • Identify Escape Routes: Choose at least two routes to ensure safe evacuation if one is blocked.

  • Designate a Safe Meeting Spot: Set a central location for employees to gather during an evacuation.

  • Conduct Regular Drills: Practice your plan regularly so staff feel confident in case of an emergency.


2. Create a Fire-Safe Zone Around Your Workplace


Creating a defensible space around your office or site can help slow fire spread and allow emergency responders to do their job more effectively.


  • Clear Dry Vegetation: Remove dry leaves, twigs, and grass around the workplace, especially within 20 metres.

  • Trim Trees and Shrubs: Cut back branches and tall grass near your building to prevent fire from easily reaching your property.

  • Maintain Roofs and Gutters: Regularly clear gutters and roofs of debris to prevent ember buildup, a common cause of fires spreading to buildings


3. Stay Informed with Fire Warnings


Real-time fire alerts help ensure you can act quickly to protect staff and property.


  • Use Workplace Fire Safety Apps: Download apps like Fires Near Me for real-time alerts on nearby fires.

  • Sign Up for Notifications: Subscribe to updates from the Bureau of Meteorology and local fire services to stay informed of fire risks in your area.

  • Communicate with Employees: Make sure staff are informed of any fire warnings and the procedures to follow.


4. Ensure Smoke Alarms Are Operational

Smoke alarms are crucial for detecting fire hazards early. Make sure they’re functioning and in the right locations.


  • Install in Key Areas: Ensure smoke alarms are installed on every floor, near workspaces, and in areas where fire risk is higher.

  • Test Regularly: Check that alarms are working each month to ensure they’re functional.

  • Change Batteries and Replace Alarms: Replace batteries annually and the alarms themselves every 10 years.


5. Prepare a Workplace Emergency Kit


Prepare an emergency kit to ensure that if evacuation is necessary, your staff has what they need to stay safe.


  • Include Essentials: Pack water, snacks, flashlights, first-aid kits, and batteries for immediate needs.

  • Store Important Documents: Keep copies of critical business documents in a waterproof pouch.

  • Add Protective Gear: Include masks, gloves, long sleeves, and sturdy shoes for safety during evacuation.


6. Upgrade Your Workplace for Fire Resistance


Small fire-resistant upgrades can significantly reduce the risk to your property during a bushfire or heatwave.

  • Install Ember Guards: Use ember-resistant mesh to cover vents and eaves, preventing embers from entering the building.

  • Use Fire-Resistant Materials: If renovating, use non-flammable materials for decks, outdoor spaces, and any structural elements.

  • Set Up Sprinklers: Install sprinklers in high-risk areas, such as roofs or outdoor spaces, to keep the property damp and more resistant to fire.


7. Know When to Evacuate – And Evacuate Early


If a fire threatens your workplace, evacuating early is crucial to ensure the safety of your employees.


  • Set Clear Triggers: Define clear signs or signals that will prompt an evacuation, such as specific fire warning levels.

  • Keep Your Kit Accessible: Ensure that your emergency kit is easily accessible, ideally in a central location or even in your car.

  • Account for Everyone: Make sure employees, visitors, and contractors know the evacuation procedure and can be accounted for.


Let Allfire Protection Help Your Workplace Enjoy A Safe And Bright Summer!


With the Australian summer bringing higher risks of bushfires and extreme heat, ensuring your workplace is prepared is crucial for protecting staff, operations, and property. 


That’s where Allfire Protection can help! Whether your workplace needs fire equipment supplied and installed, or you’re simply looking for your existing equipment to be inspected and tested, get in touch today for a next business day quote.


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