A fire in the company - a nightmare that can become reality sooner than you think. The consequences are often fatal: destroyed property, loss of production, damage to image and, in the worst case, injuries or even fatalities. This makes it all the more important for you as an entrepreneur to act responsibly and ensure the safety of your employees and your business.
But which fire protection measures are really relevant and which legal requirements do you need to observe? This article gives you an initial overview.
Legal basis - what you need to know:
- Occupational Health and Safety Act (ArbSchG): In accordance with Section 3 ArbSchG, employers are obliged to ensure the safety and health of their employees at work - this also includes protection against fire hazards.
- Workplace Ordinance (ArbStättV): The ArbStättV concretises the requirements of the ArbSchG and specifies which measures are to be implemented in detail.
- Building regulations of the federal states: The building regulations of the federal states contain specific fire protection regulations for buildings that must be observed when planning and constructing commercial buildings.
The most important fire protection measures at a glance:
1. fire prevention - eliminate sources of danger:
- Regular risk assessment: Identify potential fire hazards in your company and assess the risk.
- Safe storage and handling of flammable substances: Appropriate storage areas, compulsory labelling and special safety precautions are essential.
- Strict smoking ban: Smoking rooms must comply with legal requirements and be located outside buildings.
- Safe electrical installations: Regular inspection of electrical systems by qualified personnel prevents short circuits and cable fires.
- Careful handling of machines and equipment: Adhere to maintenance schedules, avoid overheating, reduce fire loads.
2. firefighting - rapid response in an emergency:
- Functional fire alarm systems: Automatic alerting of the fire brigade in the event of a fire saves valuable time.
- Sufficient fire extinguishers: Strategically placed and maintained fire extinguishers enable rapid firefighting in the early stages.
- Easily accessible escape and rescue routes: Clear escape routes, illuminated escape route signs and appropriate labelling save lives.
- Trained fire safety assistants: Regular training courses qualify your employees for firefighting and evacuation.
3. organisational measures - creating structures that save lives:
- Creation of fire protection regulations: Define clear rules of behaviour in the event of a fire and make them accessible to all employees.
- Regular inspections and checks: Check compliance with fire protection regulations and the functionality of the safety technology.
- Documentation obligation: Record all measures and checks carefully.
Fire protection is a top priority!
The responsibility for fire safety in the company lies with the employer. However, each individual must also do their part to protect themselves and others.
Fritz Manke GmbH: Your strong partner for fire protection.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the legal requirements and the wide range of fire protection measures? No problem! The experts at Fritz Manke GmbH support you with comprehensive expertise and customised solutions - from risk analysis, planning and installation of fire protection technology to training your employees.
Talk to us, we will be happy to advise you!