How to Write a Fire Safety Plan: A Friendly Guide for Businesses

Hey there, savvy business owners! Let’s talk about something super important but often pushed to the backburner until, well, it’s literally on fire: your fire safety plan. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Ugh, more paperwork,” but hear me out. Having a solid plan isn’t just about ticking a box for compliance; it’s about protecting your dream, your team, and those who walk through your doors. As someone who’s seen the good, the bad, and the downright scary when it comes to fire emergencies, I’m here to walk you through crafting a fire safety plan that’s more shield than chore. So, let’s dive in!

Step 1: Conduct a Risk Assessment for you Fire Safety Plan

First things first, you’ve got to know what you’re up against. This means playing detective in your own business. Look for anything that could potentially start a fire. I remember walking into a quaint little coffee shop and spotting a power strip overloaded with every gadget under the sun. It was an accident waiting to happen. The owner was shocked; they’d never considered it a risk before.

Understanding Your Risks

Identify all potential fire hazards. This could be anything from electrical equipment, flammable liquids, to that pile of boxes you’ve been meaning to clear out. Be thorough and honest.

Evaluating the Risks

Once you’ve listed your hazards, it’s time to play fortune teller. Ask yourself, “If this caught fire, how bad could it get?” Prioritize risks based on how likely they are to occur and the potential impact they could have.

Step 2: Develop Evacuation Procedures

No one wants to think about their workplace turning into a scene from a disaster movie, but having a plan can literally save lives. Your evacuation procedure should be clear, simple, and accessible to everyone.

Mapping Out Escape Routes

Your escape routes should be as straightforward as possible. I’ve seen businesses with complex routes that looked more like a maze. Keep it simple. Mark these routes clearly, and always have a backup in case the primary path is blocked.

Designating Assembly Points

Choose a safe spot outside where everyone can regroup. Make sure it’s far enough from the building but not so far that it’s inconvenient. I’ve seen assembly points that were too close, putting people at risk from smoke inhalation or even worse, explosions.

Step 3: Assign Roles and Responsibilities

In an emergency, everyone needs to know their role. It’s like being part of a sports team; each player has a position to play.

Creating a Fire Safety Team

Appoint fire wardens or deputy Fire Safety Directors. These are the folks who’ll keep their cool and guide others to safety. They should be easily identifiable, maybe even wearing a bright vest during drills or actual emergencies.

Employee Responsibilities

Make sure all your team members know what’s expected of them. This could be as simple as shutting down equipment before evacuating or helping visitors find their way out.

Step 4: Equip and Maintain Fire Safety Equipment

Having the right tools can make all the difference. And by tools, I mean your fire extinguishers, alarms, and sprinkler systems.

Selecting the Right Equipment

Not all fire extinguishers are created equal. Different fires require different extinguishers. Ensure you have the right types for the hazards in your workplace. I would also consider the size of the fire extinguisher. I was recently talking to a autobody shop in Vancouver, BC and they were only using a couple of 5lb fire extinguisher and I mentioned to them that it might be a good idea to put a couple 10lbs in shop area as the 5lb fire exitingusher done last long in a real fire.

Regular Maintenance

Keep your equipment in check. I once visited a place where the fire extinguisher hadn’t been inspected in years and was as useful as a chocolate teapot. Regular checks can prevent this. Expecially Dry powder extinguisher can have the agent stuck together if it's not annually inspected by an ASTTBC Tech.

Step 5: Plan for Communication and Alerts

In the heat of the moment (pun intended), clear communication can calm chaos. Make sure you have a system in place to alert everyone to evacuate.

Effective Communication Systems

Whether it’s an alarm system, an intercom, or even a group chat, make sure it’s reliable and everyone knows how it works.

Information Dissemination

Keep everyone in the loop about your fire safety plan. Post it, email it, talk about it. The more familiar everyone is with the plan, the better.

### Step 6: Organize Training and Drills

Practice makes perfect, or at least a lot less panic. Regular training and drills ensure everyone knows what to do when the alarm sounds.

Training Programs

From using a fire extinguisher to navigating escape routes, make sure your team is trained. It could turn an employee into a hero.

Conducting Fire Drills

Drills might feel a bit school-like, but they’re invaluable. They’re the test runs that prepare everyone for the real deal. Make them regular, and throw in some surprise ones to keep everyone on their toes. I was inspecting a building out in Vancouver and I looked at the Fire Safety Plan and they had recorded no actual drills in the Fire Safety Plan. I know not everyone likes to pull a pull station and run to through the drill but drill are life line for us to find out if something is not working outside of the annually inspection. If you need help getting started contact us and we would be happy to help you with your first one so you feel more confortable.

Step 7: Review and Update the Plan Regularly

Businesses evolve, and so should your fire safety

plan. New equipment, new employees, or even a new office layout can affect your plan.

Continuous Improvement

Always look for ways to improve your plan. After each drill, gather feedback. What worked? What didn’t? Adjust accordingly.

Conclusion

Writing a fire safety plan might seem daunting, but it’s an essential part of running a safe business. Remember, it’s not just about following laws; it’s about protecting lives. With the right approach, creating your plan can be straightforward and even empowering. It’s about knowing that, should the worst happen, you’re ready to protect what matters most.

So, roll up your sleeves and dive into your fire safety plan today. And if you ever feel overwhelmed, remember, there are professionals (like yours truly) who are more than happy to help guide you through the process. Stay safe, stay prepared, and let’s keep those fires strictly metaphorical!