Ensuring Your Business Meets Fire Safety Regulations | John Brewer | Burn Victim Assistance

As a small business owner, there are a lot of things that you have to think about. One of these is fire safety . Having the proper equipment and training is one of the most vital things you can do to ensure your business is safe. Doing so could save lives and protect your business from potential legal issues.

Exit Signs

One of the most important factors that you should consider when it comes to fire safety is having exit signs that are working correctly and are visible. This is because these signs could help people find their way out of the building in an emergency.

If your exit sign is not visible from every part of the building or if it is not lit up properly, you could be fined or even have your business shut down. Having these signs regularly checked is necessary to ensure they’re working correctly.

Evacuation Plan

Having an evacuation plan is also important in case of a fire. This will help everyone know what to do and how to get out of the building. Having a meeting area outside the building will allow everyone to gather after the evacuation.

Having an emergency evacuation plan posted in a visible location will also help everyone know what to do in case of a disaster. Having regular fire drills will also help everyone become familiar with the procedures.

Employee Training

All employees should also be trained on your business’s various fire safety procedures. This can include using a fire extinguisher and knowing where the exits are located.

You can also schedule training sessions for new employees or include information about your company’s fire safety procedures in the orientation process.

Local Fire Codes

Besides following the federal and state fire codes, you also have to follow local codes. These regulations can vary depending on the city where you live and work. Having the necessary knowledge about these regulations can help you comply with the local codes.

Your local fire department can also provide a list of the various fire codes your business should follow. Having these regulations regularly updated can help keep your business in compliance.

Smoke Alarms

All businesses must have working smoke alarms on every level of their building. These alarms must be tested monthly and have to be replaced every ten years.

You should also have carbon monoxide detectors in every room that people or fuel-burning appliances can access.

Having carbon monoxide and smoke detectors regularly checked can also help keep your facility in good working condition.

Fire Permits

In some cases, a fire permit is required for businesses that use hazardous materials. This type of permit is usually required for establishments with high occupancy rates or that are located in areas with hazardous waste.

If you are not sure if your business needs a fire permit or if you already have one, you can contact your local fire department. They can help you apply for one.

Small business owners must follow these fire safety laws to protect their establishments and employees. Doing so can help keep their establishments in compliance with the local codes and ensure that they can protect their customers.

Originally published at https://johnbrewerlaw.org on October 27, 2022.