Many catalysts cause factory and warehouse fires, which can be devastating. Fire safety training is vital for protecting workers, yourself, equipment, and inventory. Recognizing fire hazards is the best place to begin. Here are three fire safety tips to keep your warehouse or factory safe.
Keep Items That Can Explode Away from Heat
Many warehouses store and house large amounts of gas, oil, or combustible items (items that can explode). It only takes one spark for these items to ignite, so it’s best to isolate them. These items should go into a fire-proof room with a dedicated suppression system. Therefore, they will stay in that area if a fire breaks out. Also, it prevents fires when employees know which substances shouldn’t be around open flames.
Ensure That Safety Equipment is “Safe”
Fire extinguishers and suppression systems must work if there is a fire. Annual fire extinguisher inspections ensure that your equipment isn’t damaged. If so, it’s crucial to have them replaced as soon as possible. It’s also best practice to have fire extinguishers emptied once every six years.
Sprinkler systems also need testing and flushing by a professional annually. Our specialists will test the system’s water flow, density, and distribution and ensure that the sprinklers don’t have damage. Exposed pipes also need insulation to protect against freezing temperatures. You also want to provide clear, unobstructed connections to outdoor water supplies for firefighters.
Create an Evacuation Plan
Sometimes a fire needs more than an extinguisher to stop spreading. During the panic of a fire, it can be challenging to maneuver around large equipment and rows of warehouse shelving. For this reason, you must have an evacuation plan.
A detailed evacuation map you share with your employees should be a part of your fire safety training. Mark all egress points such as windows, staircases, and doors. You can also post arrow signs to guide employees and illuminate routes with exit signs. Posting large printouts of the maps in breakrooms is also helpful.
Contact Chesapeake Sprinkler if you want to ensure that your warehouse or factory has the best fire protection equipment. Our experts take care of new installations, but we’ll also inspect and test your systems and ensure they are up-to-date regarding the latest fire protection technology.
Contact Chesapeake Sprinkler Company Today!
Chesapeake Sprinkler Company is a leading fire sprinkler contractor in the region, now a member of the Century Fire Protection family. As a full-service fire protection company, we offer design, fabrication, installation, testing, maintenance, and inspection of fire protection systems—everything you need from your fire suppression specialist.
For more information, please email or call our Odenton location at 410-674-7041, our Ashburn location at 703-729-5150, or for service/maintenance at 410-674-7577. For emergencies, call 800-298-3473 (FIRE). Feel free to keep in touch through Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!