The Importance Of Regular Fire Drills Most commercial properties very rarely run fire drills, leaving staff unprepared in the event of actual fires. Whilst fire drills are not needed all the time, it is important to conduct them regularly, keeping all staff updated on procedures and fire safety equipment. KBM Fire Safety Services can assist in all fire safety training, creating a suitable procedure for your business. Whether you need new courses or refreshers, we are always available.
How Often Should Fire Drills Occur? Employers are legally obliged to carry out at least one fire drill a year and some businesses are failing to even meet these requirements. However, you are not restricted to just one fire drill and if you have many risks around your workplace, more regular fire drills can be very beneficial.
Additionally, if you have new staff members or staff that work shifts, it is important for all staff to be involved in a fire drill. This will ensure all staff are prepared in the worst situations and have been given at least one example of the fire drill and the safety procedure they should follow.
Fires can break out at any time so regardless of what time staff members are working, they should always take part in a fire drill at least once a year.
How To Prepare For Fire Drills There are several tasks you should complete to correctly prepare for a fire drill, which includes informing your staff. This will give staff time to prepare for the fire drill to prevent any panic, as well as having maximum attendance on the day for everyone to take part in the fire drill. If some staff have roles and responsibilities, having all staff available is important.
Fire drills are used to teach staff members the correct procedures, rather than testing them. You should always make sure that your staff and premise is prepared for the fire drill. This includes notifying other people on the premises who may not need to take part in your fire safety drill.
You should also keep an appropriate number of fire wardens available who have completed the necessary training for a safe and controlled fire drill. This will prevent any problems from occurring during a drill. Clearing all your exit routes is also important so staff can leave the building without being injured.
What To Do During Fire Drills Fire drills are pointless if you don't record them correctly and make sure they are completed without any issues. During fire drills, there are several things you can do whilst staff complete the drill. This should include recording the time and the drill that occurs, as well as making observations of the drill.
This will help you identify whether a response is too slow and whether the fire drill is not the best option for your business. When making observations, you can also identify any problems that have occurred during the drill and what changes should be made for the highest level of fire safety in the future.
Why Do We Need Fire Drills? Whilst you may think fire drills are pointless, they could end up saving someone's life. Fires are not likely to occur in your workplace unless you have a high number of risks, however, it is always important to stay prepared.
Preparing your staff will ensure there is reduced panic if the situation arises and that all staff are aware of the exit routes to safely leave the building. Regular fire drills will assist in finding the correct procedures and ensuring that all staff understand the procedures and their roles for the safest response.
Most importantly, this is a legal requirement and your business must adhere to carrying out fire safety drills for staff.
Contact Us If you require advice and training for fire safety drills or would like a fire warden on site to complete fire drills, contact KBM Fire Safety Services today. We can provide a wide range of services and will always give you the highest level of fire safety training. Make an enquiry and call
01208 73001 or
07870 665551 or fill in our contact form today.