Keeping the business ready
Ensuring a safe workplace is no easy task, and while there are some common areas of safety employers are comfortable with there are often other areas that can be a challenge. WHS fire safety requirements are one area where employers must be compliant, and there are some big focal points no business can afford to overlook.
There are some simple things employers can do to make sure their business is as fire safe as possible:
- Have a plan in place – establish fire emergency procedures for businesses so staff know what to do, where the right equipment is, and who to call if there is a need for emergency services.
- Get the right equipment – having the right type of fire safety equipment is vital, including the right type of extinguisher depending on the type of fire, as well as a sprinkler system and a fire blanket
This infographic serves as a checklist for employers to take some simple, but important, steps when completing a fire risk assessment for small business.
Fire safety obligations
Fire safety responsibilities in the workplace fall into two categories:
- Structural obligations – a landlord and/or occupier of commercial premises has obligations under various state-based planning laws to ensure that structural elements of business premises comply with relevant building codes and fire safety.
- Occupier’s obligations – an occupier of commercial premises who conducts a business or undertaking has various obligations relating to fire safety under the relevant state Act and Regulation.
What does this mean for small businesses?
Small business owners need to manage fire safety obligations for employers, however, there are some aspects which must be managed by an appropriate body. Clients of Peninsula are provided with assistance in managing their occupier’s obligations, however with structural obligations, employers will need special assistance from a qualified business or agency. In some cases, a local council can assist in managing structural obligations to fire safety.
For advice on how to manage the impact of fire in your workplace, contact Peninsula on 1300 761 935.
This infographic serves as a checklist for employers to take some simple, but important, steps to minimise the risk of fire as much as possible.