Assessors of Warehouse Risks know that warehouses have risks of fire entirely different from those found in offices and shops.
Racking and Storage Height
Racking and Storage Height – Racking forms a barrier to fighting a fire and helps spread it. In an assessment we would look at the height of storage against the coverage of any sprinkler system and check that flammable materials are stored separately and that the racking is stable so it does not collapse in an emergency.
Forklift and EV Charging Stations
This can cause fire when left unattended. As part of a fire risk assessment, assessment teams will look at where equipment is charged, whether the area is properly ventilated and whether any equipment is left to charge overnight without suitable detection in place.
Compartmentation and Loading Bay Doors
This could include the loading bay doors being left open to break the fire compartmentation of the warehouse. This allows fire and smoke to spread rapidly across the large floor area of a warehouse.
Dust and Flammable Materials
Dust is particularly at risk of igniting and assessment of the potential to create fires from accumulated wood or grain dust must include reference to a cleaning schedule and that flammable liquids are stored in a suitable dedicated room with adequate ventilation and stored away from any ignition source.
Means of Escape
Large warehouse spaces need clear signage on all exit routes. The route must never be obstructed by stock or other items and the people who work there must know the way out in case of an emergency.
When to Review Your Assessment
A fire risk assessment must be reviewed where there has been a change to the activities conducted within a premises or where there has been a change to the number of people occupying a premises. More on Fire Risk Assessment Northamptonshire can be found at https://isefireproducts.co.uk/fire-risk-assessments/northamptonshire.
Get the assessment right and keep it up to date and your warehouse will be a safe place to work.