FACTS

Common Causes of Fire in the Workplace

1. Faulty equipment. Defective electrics such as loose wires, or faulty equipment that can overheat and cause sparks, are common causes of fires in the workplace.
2. Clutter. A common fire risk found in many workplaces is a lack of consistent cleaning, leaving the building untidy and cluttered. If the workplace is not cleaned regularly, the build-up of dust and grease a fire risk.
3. Combustibles on site. Combustible materials such as paper, wood and cardboard will accumulate in many workplaces, and if allowed to build-up, contribute a significant amount of fuel to any fire that may start.
4. Human Error. With many people often using the workplace on a daily basis, human error can be a common factor in the causes of fires. From using equipment incorrectly, not reporting faulty machinery, to even leaving cooking food unattended, accidents occur without the proper training in place.
5. Arson. Arson makes up a large percentage of fires caused on business premises and cause devastating consequences to a company. Deterrents such as CCTV and motion-sensor lighting should be installed.
6. Old Fire Risk Assessments. When you move into a new office, or a building that was previously occupied, you should always carry out a new fire risk assessment – never leave it to chance and ‘keep the old one’.

STATS

• 24 percent of structural fires at workplaces occur due to electrical issues, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
• Work-related vehicle fires, which account for 9 percent of work-related fires, according to the NFPA.
• In the US, there were 115 victims of fires and explosions in the workplace.
• The typical employee injured by an arc flash requires an 8 to 12-month leave of absence from work to fully heal and recover.
• Fires and explosions are the 3rd most fatal workplace injuries within the oil and gas industry.
• OSHA reports that there are more than 200 workplace fires per day, with more than 5,000 people injured by workplace fires annually.
• Welding torches were involved in one-third (34%) of hot work structure fires.