Small Business 101: Fire Safety Laws You Should Be Following

Small Business 101: Fire Safety Laws You Should Be Following

When it comes to owning and operating a small business, it is the legal and ethical responsibility of the owner to keep employees safe. To do this, every small business owner must consider fire safety laws. By learning more about key factors, you can create a business that is not only successful but prepared to handle a fire event. Below are a few considerations that must be made to follow Chicago fire safety laws.

Fire Exits

If a fire takes place, employees, as well as customers, need to be able to easily exit the building. There must be two exits that are not within proximity so that everyone can leave during a fire emergency. Such exits can be a door or window or large enough space for someone to fit through to exit. Fire safety laws require that all exit points remain clear of debris. Never block the exits so they can be free of obstruction and everyone can clear the building if a fire occurs.

Portable Fire Extinguishers

Workplace facilities are required to have fire extinguishers based on the type of fire hazards that could occur. Most people, in general, have no idea that there are several types of fire extinguishers and each one works on a certain type of fire. You need an extinguisher for grease fires in the kitchen while a building with electrical components, such as a computer space, needs an extinguisher that will work on electrical fires. Have such equipment installed in your business and train employees on how to use them.

Have an Emergency Evacuation Plan

Even though your business may be small, Chicago fire safety laws recommend that you have an emergency evacuation plan in place in the event of a fire. The plan needs to be written down and then put into action regularly. Have fire drills every six months or so to refresh employees on the exit strategy. Have signs in place throughout the building with a map of the exit and ensure all employees know how to leave the building based on where they are.

When you train your employees in fire safety, including on how to leave the building during a fire, if it happens, everyone will be ready and react accordingly. Without a plan in place, people may panic and this can result in injury or even death depending on the scale of the fire.

Inspect Suppression Systems

If your business has fire suppression systems in place, like automatic sprinkler systems, have the system inspected regularly. This way, you can be secure in the fact that your sprinklers will work and protect the space as well as employees if a fire occurs.

Following these key points will help you to provide a safe workplace for your employees. Review your Chicago fire safety protocols today and make the appropriate changes to protect your business, employees, and customers. Speak with an experienced fire safety company if you need help with reviewing your business or installing additional security measures.