Top 5 Causes of Fire in the Workplace

5 min read

Workplace fire hazards are serious concerns that demand attention from business owners. Not only can fires cause immense property damage and extensive closures, but they also pose significant risks to the safety and well-being of employees.

Unfortunately, commercial fire emergencies can be common. According to the National Fire Protection Association, over 3,340 fires occur yearly in office properties. Moreover, the US OSHA reveals that workplace fires and explosions injure over 5,000 workers every year.

Understanding the common causes of workplace fires is essential for identifying and implementing effective prevention strategies. Below, we examine these leading causes and explore some practical solutions to protect your business and people from these emergencies.

The Top 5 Causes of Fires in the Workplace

1. Faulty Electrical Equipment

Electrical equipment malfunction is a primary contributor to workplace fires, accounting for 22% of such incidents. Issues like damaged wiring, faulty electrical appliances, and overloaded circuits can generate excessive heat or product sparks, igniting nearby combustible materials.

Regular inspection and maintenance of electrical systems and equipment are crucial to identifying and addressing potential hazards. It also helps to replace damaged or outdated equipment when you discover it to significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires. Ultimately, ensure your electrical installations comply with safety standards.

2. Clutter

Clutter in your workplace can detract from your business’s professional image and hamper your team’s productivity. Unfortunately, it doesn’t end there. Piles of paper, cardboard boxes, and similar materials also increase the fire risk on your property and let flames spread more rapidly.

On the bright side, encouraging your employees to maintain clean and organized workspaces is a simple yet effective way to start managing this common cause of workplace fires. Regularly decluttering workspaces is not just good housekeeping – it’s an investment in your business’s safety.

3. Combustible Materials on Site

Besides clutter, it’s critical to note that substances like chemicals, solvents, and fuels on site also pose significant fire hazards if not properly managed. Improper storage practices, like storing them in a space with insufficient ventilation or improperly sealed containers, can increase the risk of fires and explosions.

Ensure a safe working environment by implementing stringent procedures for managing combustible substances. This includes labeling the materials properly, segregating various combustibles to prevent unintended reactions, and training staff members on safe handling practices.

4. Negligence and Human Error

Simple mistakes or a lack of proper training can lead to devastating consequences. From simple oversights like leaving stoves unattended in the break room to misusing equipment, human error can lead to unintentional fire outbreaks.

Preventing fires due to unawareness or mistakes can be challenging, but fostering a culture of mindfulness and raising employee awareness about fire safety can help. Educate your staff on fire safety procedures and best practices, and encourage a culture that prioritizes vigilance. Regular drills and training can also instill good habits that could one day prevent a fire.

5. Arson

Unfortunately, some fires are set on purpose. Disgruntled employees, customers, trespassers, and other individuals with malicious intent can target businesses as a form of retaliation or crime.

While deliberate acts can be difficult to anticipate and prevent, there are security measures you can take to deter potential arsonists. Invest in surveillance cameras, install controlled access to sensitive areas, and perform employee background checks. A strong security presence can discourage lurking criminals while also providing evidence in the unfortunate event of a fire.

BONUS: Defective Fire Detection Alarms

Although not directly a cause of commercial fires, the consequences of a malfunctioning fire detection system can be catastrophic. A minor incident can escalate quickly if not detected in time.

This highlights the importance of regularly maintaining and testing your fire detection equipment, whether you have smoke alarms, fire sprinklers, or carbon monoxide detectors. If you don’t have any of these, now is an excellent time to consider installing commercial fire alarm systems inside your workplace. These systems are your first line of defense and can give you enough time to evacuate and call for help.

Don’t Let Commercial Fire Damage Close Your Doors for Too Long

Fires in the workplace can severely impact lives, livelihoods, and the longevity of your business. Understanding the risks associated with the six causes discussed in this blog can help you take the first step toward ensuring a safe work environment.

That said, the unfortunate reality is that fires can still occur despite the best preventive measures. In such critical moments, you need swift, professional assistance to begin the recovery process quickly.

As your local commercial fire damage experts, Restoration 1 of Oak Harbor is here to help you recover from fire-related disasters. We have a team of experienced professionals ready to handle the aftermath of your commercial fire, perform a thorough cleanup, and return your property to its pre-disaster state.

You don’t have to deal with the aftermath of a workplace fire alone. Call our local Restoration 1 team for expert assistance; together, let’s pave the way for your business’s resilient comeback.