Businesses urged to keep fire safety as high priority

Businesses have been reminded to keep fire safety high in mind during the Coronavirus outbreak following reports of fire doors being propping open to prevent staff from touching handles.

While appreciating that the situation regarding coronavirus is unprecedented, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service has stressed that it is essential that fire safety remains a priority. The service has urged businesses to keep fire doors closed and adhere to the Government’s advice on washing hands regularly and maintaining social distancing.

This will not only ensure the protection of businesses and their workforces but also help minimise the pressure on emergency services. In addition, businesses have been asked to sure that automatic fire alarm systems are in good order to ensure that unnecessary call outs are reduced.

Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service's Group Commander for Protection, Roland Bayley said: “We are aware that some businesses have been propping open fire doors to prevent staff from having to touch door handles. We know this has been done with the best intentions, however fire doors should not be propped open.

"They are there to save lives and slow the spread of fire to give your staff the time they need to safely evacuate the building. Without them, the risk of fire death greatly increases.

“Equally, we are mindful of businesses who may be storing extra stock in order to cope with increased demand. Where stockpiling of essentials has become necessary, be aware of the increased risk of fire. Please ensure that your stock does not come into contact with ignition sources such as heaters or light fittings and does not compromise any escape routes.”

Staff responsible for fire safety on the premises are also being reminded to review their fire risk assessments regularly, as the coronavirus situation continually changes.

This includes reviewing the following:

Staffing levels, for example in care homes, should be maintained to ensure the emergency plan can be effectively managed
Any contingency planning should include emergency evacuation
Maintain physical fire safety measures to prevent fire spread. We do not recommend propping open fire doors to minimise contact and spread of the virus.
Business are advised to follow Public Health Guidance, particularly hand washing and social distancing
Staff to be extra vigilant to prevent accidental fires, immediately reporting any issues identified.

For full fire safety information and advice, please visit https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/information-coronavirus/coronavirus-fire-safety-updates-businesses/1.

Also please see Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service's leaflet here.