Office Fire Safety: A Focus on the Kitchen Space
In an office environment, the kitchen is a well-used space. From break time to lunches, employees spend their downtime in this area. Unfortunately for employees, the company kitchen is often an area that is overlooked when it comes to Chicago fire safety. Without proper safety protocols in place, the kitchen can be a fire hazard and lead to causing fires in the workplace.
So, how can a fire be prevented in the office kitchen? What can be done to keep employees safe? There are several steps that a property owner or manager can do to ensure that the kitchen space provides a safe area for employees. Follow the tips below to get started.
Replace Power Cords
Power cords of kitchen appliances need to be checked from time to time for fraying or worn wires. Do you see any exposed wires? If so, this is a fire hazard. A cord can easily short out and then start a fire. Employees should be encouraged to follow Chicago fire safety procedures and watch out for damaged cords. Replacements should be provided to keep the office safe.
Don’t Get Distracted While Cooking
It can be easy to become distracted while on lunch, so be sure that any cooking is done without disruption. If you have an oven in the kitchen and are cooking something on the stovetop, do not leave the area. Employees need to be encouraged to stay near the appliances while they cook to avoid any issues. At the first sign of smoke or burning, action should be taken to avoid a major fire in the workplace.
Cleaning Appliances
In the work kitchen, a cleaning schedule or cleaning crew should be utilized from time to time to take care of appliance cleaning needs. A microwave or oven can easily have food left behind from regular cooking. Over time, the spills and baked-in foods can cause a fire. Kitchen equipment should be cleaned to prevent a grease fire or other fire hazards. Remind employees to clean up spills and food particles to avoid this type of problem in the future.
Fire Extinguisher Training
Everyone knows that a portable fire extinguisher can put out a small fire and keep the flames from spreading. However, most people have no idea how to use one. Chicago fire safety protocols recommend that businesses train employees on how to use a fire extinguisher. The training could mean the difference between a minor fire and a huge catastrophe.
Train employees to use a fire extinguisher as well as other lifesaving measures including first aid equipment. Small training sessions can have large results as employees can assist in the event of a fire, treating injuries or helping others leave the property in a safe manner.
Most office fires start in the kitchen. Follow Chicago fire safety laws and have the essential fire safety equipment on hand as well as train employees on how to react, including practicing safety drills to leave the facility.
With a little effort, you can protect your employees and the building in the event of a fire.