Steps to Take After a Workplace Fire Incident

A fire in the workplace can be a traumatic and disruptive event, posing risks to employees, property, and operations. While preventing fires should always be a priority, knowing how to respond effectively after a fire is just as important. Taking the right steps ensures the safety of everyone involved, minimises further damage, and helps businesses recover efficiently.

At PAT Testing Wales, we specialise in electrical safety and fire prevention through services such as Portable Appliance Testing (PAT). In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to take after a workplace fire incident, helping you recover and prevent future occurrences.

1. Ensure Everyone’s Safety

The First Priority:
Immediately after a fire, confirm that all employees, visitors, and contractors have evacuated the building and are accounted for. Use the following steps to ensure everyone’s safety:

• Evacuation Procedure: Follow the workplace’s fire evacuation plan.
• Assemble at Designated Points: Ensure everyone gathers at the designated meeting point for headcounts.
• Contact Emergency Services: If this hasn’t already been done, dial 999 to report the incident and confirm fire brigade attendance.

Important: Do not re-enter the building until the fire brigade declares it safe to do so.

2. Administer First Aid if Necessary

Check for injuries among employees and visitors:

• Provide basic first aid for minor injuries such as smoke inhalation or burns.
• Call emergency medical services for serious injuries.
• Keep a record of all injuries, as this information will be crucial for insurance and reporting purposes.

3. Assess the Damage

Once the fire brigade has confirmed it is safe to enter, assess the extent of the damage. Key areas to inspect include:

• Structural Integrity: Check for damage to walls, ceilings, and floors.
• Electrical Systems: Inspect electrical appliances and wiring for fire-related faults.
• Equipment and Furniture: Identify any items that are damaged beyond repair or require cleaning.

PAT Testing Wales Tip: After a fire, all electrical appliances and systems should undergo a professional inspection to ensure they are safe to use. Faulty or fire-damaged equipment poses a significant safety risk.

4. Notify Relevant Authorities

Depending on the severity of the fire, you may need to report the incident to:

• The Health and Safety Executive (HSE): For workplace fires resulting in injuries or significant damage, reporting is required under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR).
• Your Insurance Provider: Notify your insurer as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Provide detailed documentation of the damage and any injuries sustained.

5. Document the Incident

Create a detailed report of the fire incident, including:

• The Date and Time: Record when the fire occurred.
• Cause of the Fire: Identify the suspected source (e.g., faulty appliance, overloaded circuit).
• Actions Taken: Describe how the fire was managed and what measures were in place (e.g., use of extinguishers or alarms).
• Impact: List the damage to property and equipment, as well as any injuries.

PAT Testing Wales Insight: If a faulty electrical appliance caused the fire, include its testing history in your report. Regular PAT testing helps demonstrate compliance with safety standards and proactive maintenance.

6. Secure the Premises

After the fire, take steps to secure the premises and prevent further damage or unauthorised access:

• Board Up Damaged Areas: Secure broken windows, doors, or other exposed areas.
• Turn Off Utilities: Shut off gas, electricity, and water supplies to prevent additional hazards.
• Implement Temporary Safety Measures: Use warning signs and barriers to keep people away from unsafe areas.

7. Begin the Clean-Up Process

Fire damage often leaves soot, debris, and water from firefighting efforts. Clean-up involves:

• Removing Debris: Safely dispose of damaged materials and furniture.
• Cleaning Surfaces: Use professional cleaning services to remove soot and smoke residue.
• Drying the Area: Address water damage quickly to prevent mould growth.

8. Investigate the Cause of the Fire

Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the root cause of the fire. Common causes include:

• Faulty electrical appliances or wiring.
• Overloaded sockets or extension leads.
• Improper storage of flammable materials.

How PAT Testing Wales Helps: We can inspect your electrical appliances and systems to identify faults or fire risks, helping you prevent future incidents.

9. Review and Update Fire Safety Policies

After a workplace fire, review your fire safety measures and update them as needed:

• Conduct a New Fire Risk Assessment: Identify areas for improvement and implement additional controls.
• Review Training Programmes: Ensure employees are trained on fire safety and evacuation procedures.
• Upgrade Fire Safety Equipment: Replace used fire extinguishers and test alarms, emergency lighting, and sprinkler systems.

10. Restore Operations

Develop a plan to restore business operations as quickly as possible:

• Set Priorities: Focus on essential areas to resume critical functions.
• Communicate with Stakeholders: Keep employees, customers, and suppliers informed about the recovery process.
• Apply for Support: Explore financial support options, such as insurance claims or government assistance, to cover damages and recovery costs.

Preventing Future Fires

Prevention is always better than cure. Take proactive measures to reduce the risk of workplace fires:

1. Regular PAT Testing: Schedule routine testing of all portable appliances to identify faults early. At PAT Testing Wales, we offer reliable and thorough PAT testing services to minimise electrical fire risks.
2. Proper Maintenance: Keep electrical systems and appliances in good condition.
3. Fire Safety Training: Ensure all employees know how to use fire extinguishers, recognise hazards, and follow evacuation procedures.
4. Fire Risk Assessments: Conduct regular assessments to identify and address potential hazards.

Why Choose PAT Testing Wales?

At PAT Testing Wales, we’re committed to helping businesses across Wales maintain safe and compliant workplaces. Our services include:

• Expert PAT Testing: Identifying and mitigating fire risks associated with electrical appliances.
• Detailed Reporting: Providing records that demonstrate compliance with UK safety regulations.
• Tailored Advice: Offering guidance on fire safety improvements and prevention strategies.

Final Thoughts

A workplace fire can be a challenging experience, but taking the right steps after the incident can help you recover effectively and prevent future occurrences. From assessing damage to reviewing fire safety policies, every action plays a role in safeguarding your employees and business.

If you’re ready to enhance your workplace fire safety, contact PAT Testing Wales today. Let us help you prevent fires through expert PAT testing and tailored advice, ensuring your workplace remains safe and compliant with UK regulations. Together, we can build a safer future for your business.