With so much hustle and bustle in a modern office, the fire protection system and procedures may not always be top of mind. However, if an office fire does occur, it can damage or destroy property, harm workers, and cost the company thousands of dollars. With proper knowledge and cautionary procedures, you can avoid this situation. Review the guide below to learn more about some of the most common and preventable causes of workplace fires.

How Office Fires Get Started

1. Faulty Electronics

Everything from overloaded power strips and outlets to old equipment and defective wiring can cause an office fire. Often, these faulty setups lead to sparks that land on combustible materials and start a blaze. According to the United States Department of Labor, every workplace must ensure that electronic equipment doesn't pose a safety hazard. As an additional precaution, install a fire protection system or stock up on safety equipment.

2. Clutter

While boxes of paperwork may seem like a benign issue, they can increase the odds of a fire breaking out. Simple dust buildup or combustible materials combined with machinery prone to overheating can cause a flame, especially in poorly ventilated areas. Institute regular cleaning procedures to ensure all work areas are clear of potential fire risks, and encourage employees to keep their areas as tidy as possible. You can also resort to an electronic filing system to reduce the amount of paper clutter.

3. Employee Mistakes

Simple human error often comes into play with workplace fires. Unintentional incidents, such as leaving food in a microwave or toaster oven, spilling flammable liquids, or improper use of machinery, can lead to a fire. To prevent these incidents in your workplace, keep plenty of fire extinguishers around the office to stop small flames before they spread. Additionally, make sure all employees are properly trained on how to use office machinery and fire safety equipment.

 

Whether you own a small office space or work in a corporate complex, there are endless benefits to being prepared for a fire. Keep your business and employees safe by reaching out to Accel Fire Systems, Inc. Located in Anchorage, AK, they’re part of the National Fire Protection Association®, specializing in providing fire protection systems, fire inspection services, and fire extinguisher installation. Call (907) 349-1490 to discuss your prevention needs, or visit their website to learn more about their services.