When most people think of safety measures for the holidays, they think of the home. But what shouldn't be forgotten is the office. From decorations and lights to candles and space heaters, many fire hazards come with the holiday season. Here are some tips to keep your employees and office safe during the holidays:
Before you start decorating, make sure your fire safety equipment is in proper working order.
Make sure that your smoke detectors are working.
Verify that the fire extinguishers are fully charged and easily accessible.
Be mindful of potential fire hazards when selecting holiday decorations.
Holiday Lights and Decorations
Make careful choices about the types of holiday lights you use and ensure that the holiday lights are safe.
Choose locations carefully. Inside, avoid hanging holiday lights near any item that poses a potential fire hazard, such as candles or space heaters. Ensure bulbs aren't too close to loose paper or other flammable materials that present a safety hazard. Never put nails or staples through strings of lights, power cords, or extension cords.
Don't connect too many strands of lights.
If you're decorating the outside of your office, verify that any lights you use are rated for exterior use.
Don't put any types of lights on a metallic Christmas tree.
Make sure that all lights and illuminated items are turned off when the office is closed.
When decorating your workplace for the holiday season:
Be careful that any extension cords used to connect lights or illuminate other decorations are not tripping hazards.
Don't place Christmas trees, gifts, or freestanding decorations in heavily-trafficked areas.
Make sure that your holiday decorations do not compromise workers' and visitors' ability to exit the workplace quickly if an emergency occurs.
Do not place or hang any decorative items in exit corridors or on the sprinklers.
Don't block exit signs or fire safety equipment with decorations.
Space Heater Safety
As cooler temperatures approach, some workplaces allow employees to use space heaters. It is essential to follow safety guidelines to reduce the risk of fire or injury to the property or employees. If using space heaters this holiday season:
Keep at least 36 inches of clearance around every space heater and only use them in areas free of flammable liquids and easily ignited or combustible materials. Be sure it is not in a high-traffic area or any place where it may become a tripping hazard.
Proper placement of the space heater is essential. Make sure electrical cords and plugs are not frayed or damaged. Always plug the heater directly into the wall outlet and ensure the power cord is not crossing a walkway. Never use extension cords or power strips, as these could overheat and lead to a fire.
Be sure space heaters are never left unattended. They should be turned off when the employee leaves the room or area of the heater, and they should be unplugged at the end of the day.
By keeping these safety tips in mind, you can help avoid any accidents this holiday season. If you need our services this holiday season, remember that we are here for you 24/7/365 as the leading provider of commercial fire, smoke, and water damage restoration services.
We hope you have a wonderful time with your friends and family during this holiday season!
