Staying Safety Aware For The Summer Months
Summer may bring longer days and brighter weather, but it also creates the perfect storm of conditions that increase fire risk, especially in larger buildings. From overheating HVAC systems to outdoor fire hazards, building managers must be extra vigilant.
Smoke and Fire Curtains Ltd highlights all the fire safety tips for the Summer months that building owners, commercial property managers, landlords, and facilities teams must be aware of to ensure preparation is in place for a fire outbreak.
For free fire safety consultation, don’t hesitate to call us at 0116 352 7223.
Why Public and Commercial Buildings Face Higher Fire Risks in Summer
Larger buildings, especially, face a heightened risk of fires during the summer due to a combination of environmental conditions and operational factors. Here’s a breakdown:
Increased Strain on Electrical Systems: Summer heat drives a greater demand for cooling. Air conditioning units, fans, and refrigeration systems work harder, placing significant strain on electrical circuits. This increased load can lead to overheated wiring, overloaded circuits, and malfunctioning equipment, all of which are common causes of electrical fires. Older electrical systems, in particular, may not be equipped to handle this elevated demand.
Overheating HVAC and Ventilation Systems: HVAC systems are critical for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures in commercial buildings. During summer, these systems are under peak stress. If they are not well-maintained or regularly cleaned, dust accumulation and excessive demand can lead to overheating and potential fires within the units themselves or their associated ductwork.
For ventilation system inspections, contact our fire safety experts today to ensure that your building adheres to industry-leading fire safety practices.
Flammable Materials Becoming More Volatile: High temperatures can cause materials commonly found in large buildings, such as paper, cardboard, textiles, and certain chemicals, to dry out and become more highly flammable. If these materials are stored near heat sources, electrical equipment, or in areas with poor ventilation, the risk of ignition significantly increases.
Outdoor Fire Hazards Spreading Indoors: Residential areas and commercial properties with outdoor spaces (e.g., smoking areas, rubbish bins, landscaping) are vulnerable to fire hazards. Dry grass and vegetation around buildings can easily ignite from carelessly discarded cigarettes or other ignition sources. If not contained, these outdoor fires can quickly spread to the building structure, especially if combustible materials are stored nearby or if windows and doors are left open for ventilation.
Increased Activity and Potential for Human Error: Summer can be a time for renovation or maintenance projects in buildings, which can introduce new fire risks from hot work (e.g., welding sparks) or improper storage of flammable materials. Additionally, increased use of outdoor areas for staff or customers can lead to more opportunities for accidental fires from sources, such as barbecues or unextinguished smoking materials. Staff vigilance can also decrease during busy periods or due to holiday staffing.
To eliminate the risk of human error, call our fire safety specialists today!
Neglected Fire Safety Equipment: During busy summer periods, routine fire safety checks, such as inspecting fire alarms, extinguishers, and sprinkler systems, might be overlooked. This neglect can mean that critical safety equipment is not in optimal working order when it’s most needed.
Our team at Smoke and Fire Curtains Ltd religiously abide by a government-recommended fire safety checklist. Contact our team today for a free consultation and to book your fire safety inspection.
How To Prevent Fires During Summer?
Keeping commercial and public buildings safe from fires during the summer requires a multi-faceted approach, addressing both environmental risks and operational vulnerabilities. Legislation such as BS 9999 (Code of practice for fire safety in design) must be adhered to.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on safe practices:
Electrical System Maintenance & Management
Inspect and Maintain HVAC & Cooling Systems: These systems work overtime in summer. Schedule professional inspections and maintenance before summer begins to ensure they are clean, functioning efficiently, and free from dust or debris buildup that can lead to overheating.
Smoke and Fire Curtains Ltd conduct thorough inspections and maintenance for buildings up and down the UK. Contact our fire risk assessment experts today to get your building booked in!
Prevent Overloading Circuits: Educate staff on the dangers of overloading electrical outlets and extension cords with fans, portable air conditioners, and other devices. Ensure that high-energy appliances are plugged directly into wall outlets.
Regular Electrical Inspections: Have a qualified electrician conduct thorough inspections of your building’s wiring, circuit breakers, and electrical panels. This is especially crucial for older buildings with potentially outdated systems. Address any signs of wear, fraying, or discolouration immediately.
Unplug Unused Equipment: Encourage staff to unplug electrical devices when not in use, especially overnight or during extended periods of absence, to prevent potential overheating.
PAT Testing: While not always legally mandated, consider Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) for all portable electrical equipment, particularly fans and portable AC units, to ensure they are safe for use.
Consider LED Lighting: Switch to LED lighting, which produces significantly less heat than traditional bulbs, reducing a potential ignition source.
Managing Flammable Materials
Safe Storage: Store flammable liquids, chemicals, cleaning supplies, and other combustible materials in designated, well-ventilated areas, away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Use fire-resistant containers and cabinets where appropriate.
Waste Management: Implement a strict waste disposal policy. Regularly empty rubbish bins, especially those containing paper, cardboard, or packaging materials. Ensure dumpsters and waste receptacles are located a safe distance from the building.
Outdoor Flammable Materials: Clear away any dry leaves, grass, brush, or other combustible vegetation around the building, creating a defensible space. Trim trees and shrubs that are close to the building. Store firewood or other outdoor combustibles away from the building.
Smoke and Fire Curtains Ltd consult building owners and managers throughout the UK in material storage and waste management. For further details, email our friendly consultants at contracts@firecurtains.net.
Addressing Outdoor Hazards
Designated Smoking Areas: Mark and enforce designated smoking areas that are at least 20 feet away from the building, entrances, and any flammable materials. Provide sturdy, non-combustible receptacles for cigarette disposal and ensure they are regularly emptied and cleaned.
BBQ and Outdoor Cooking Safety: If your property hosts outdoor events with barbecues or fire pits, ensure they are placed on a stable, non-flammable surface, far from buildings, awnings, and dry vegetation. Never leave them unattended, and ensure they are completely extinguished before disposal. Propane tanks should always be stored outdoors.
Fireworks: Strictly prohibit the use of fireworks on or near the property, or ensure only professional, licensed displays are conducted with proper safety measures in place.
Fire Safety Systems & Procedures (Especially For Commercial Buildings)
Regular Inspections and Maintenance of Fire Systems: Ensure all fire alarms, smoke detectors, heat detectors, sprinkler systems, and fire extinguishers are regularly inspected, tested, and maintained by qualified professionals.
Fire Risk Assessments: Conduct thorough fire risk assessments before the summer season to identify specific hazards and review existing prevention measures. Update these assessments if any significant changes occur to the building or its use.
Smoke and Fire Curtains Ltd offer fire risk assessments and safety inspections throughout the country that comply with PAS 79 (Fire Risk Assessments). Contact our team today to book your inspection!
Emergency Plan & Drills: Maintain a robust fire evacuation plan and ensure all employees are familiar with it. Mark all emergency exits and keep them unobstructed. Conduct regular fire drills to practice evacuation procedures and identify any issues.
Employee Training: Provide comprehensive fire safety training for all employees, including how to identify fire hazards, proper use of fire extinguishers (for small, incipient fires), and evacuation procedures. Ensure that temporary staff also receive adequate training.
Fire Wardens: Appoint and train competent fire wardens who can take charge during an emergency, guide evacuations, and assist with fire prevention efforts.
Security Vigilance: During periods of reduced occupancy (e.g., holidays), ensure adequate security measures are in place to prevent arson or unauthorised access that could lead to fires. Consider a “waking watch” system for higher-risk periods.
By proactively implementing these measures, building owners and managers can significantly reduce the risk of fires and ensure the safety of occupants and property during the summer months.
How Smoke and Fire Curtains Ltd Can Keep You Safe In The Summer?
The combination of extreme heat stressing building systems and materials, coupled with increased human activity and potential complacency, makes buildings particularly susceptible to fires during the summer months.
At Smoke and Fire Curtains Ltd, our fire safety experts are always on hand to assist any property within the UK. We come equipped with the best solutions that won’t just keep your building safe, but also abide by the Fire Safety Order (2005), meaning you’re covered for government regulations.
Call us today at 0116 352 7223 for further details.