Fire prevention week: Retailer best practices

This is Fire Prevention Week, RCC is committed to raising awareness and sharing prevention strategies for common fire and electrical hazards in the workplace.

Below, find a comprehensive checklist of key safety points to consider when evaluating your fire and emergency plans.

For more information on fire safety and ensuring your business is properly equipped, visit the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, or National Fire Protection Association.

Arson:

Arson is one of the leading causes of fire in the workplace. To prevent or minimize the risk of fire due to arson, remember:

• To be aware of your building security procedures;
• Report any type of vandalism and notify security and/or police of suspicious behavior and visitors;
• Lock doors after working hours;
• Ensure areas around your building are free of combustibles and are well lit;
• Keep all halls, lobbies and areas used by the public clear of obstructions.

Arson Prevention Tips:

• Keep garbage, litter, overgrown brush and shrubbery, and other combustibles away from buildings.
• Lock all doors and windows.
• Install outdoor lighting, including motion sensor lights, on all sides of your property.
• Don’t leave anything that could be used as an accelerant unsecured.
• Report suspicious activity near businesses, houses, garages, alleyways, or other buildings to your local fire or police department.
• Get to know your neighbours – together you can keep a watchful eye on your community.
• If you know or suspect that an arson crime has been committed, contact your local fire or police department.

Wiring:

• Check and replace any electrical cords that have cracked insulation or broken connectors.
• Avoid octopus wiring.
• Do not run extension cords across doorways or under rugs.
• Avoid plugging more than one extension cord into an outlet.
• Use only CSA (Canadian Standards Association) approved power bars.

Declutter work area:

The first and foremost safety tip is to keep your workstation clutter-free. Clutter will not only hinder your ability to work efficiently but it also poses a serious threat to your safety.

Emergency Exits

Know the closest exits to you and ensure that the pathway to these emergency exits is clear of any obstruction.

Hazardous Zones

Familiarize yourself with the hazard zones of your workplace and take prompt action if you find something amiss in such high-risk zones. For example, damaged hazard signage is something that needs immediate replacement.