Fire Safety - Key Elements of A Fire Safety Policy

Key Elements of A Fire Safety Policy

• Building a facility in accordance with the version of the local building code
• Maintaining a facility and conducting yourself in accordance with the provisions of the fire code. This is based on the occupants and operators of the building being aware of the applicable regulations and advice.

Examples of these include:

• Not exceeding the maximum occupancy within any part of the building.
• Maintaining proper fire exits and proper exit signage (e.g., exit signs pointing to them that can function in a power failure)
• Compliance with electrical codes to prevent overheating and ignition from electrical faults or problems such as poor wire insulation or overloading wiring, conductors, or other fixtures with more electric current than they are rated for.
• Placing and maintaining the correct type of fire extinguishers in easily accessible places.
• Properly storing and using, hazardous materials that may be needed inside the building for storage or operational requirements (such as solvents in spray booths).
• Prohibiting flammable materials in certain areas of the facility.
• Periodically inspecting buildings for violations, issuing Orders To Comply and, potentially, prosecuting or closing buildings that are not in compliance, until the deficiencies are corrected or condemning it in extreme cases.
• Maintaining fire alarm systems for detection and warning of fire.
• Obtaining and maintaining a complete inventory of firestops.
• Ensuring that spray fireproofing remains undamaged.
• Maintaining a high level of training and awareness of occupants and users of the building to avoid obvious mistakes, such as the propping open of fire doors.
• Conduct fire drills at regular intervals throughout the year.