How to Develop a Fire Strategy Plan for Your Commercial Building?

The fire safety plan is important when it comes to safety measures for a commercial building. Commercial buildings have complex electrical systems and heavy loads, and they remain busy most of the time. In such a scenario, if fire strikes, significant damage can occur that may cost several lives. Developing a fire strategy plan or fire safety plan can help to protect the lives of employees, clients, and the assets of the building.

What is a Fire Safety Plan?

A fire safety plan includes details of all necessary steps to prevent fire in a building. It also contains the evacuation plan and emergency response to ensure the safety of people inside the building.

This plan contains information about fuel sources, the electrical system, and all other things that can cause or contribute to a fire. This document also contains details about fire extinguishers and other tools available in the building to deal with fire.

Why is a Fire Safety Plan Important?

It is necessary to focus on the fire safety plan and fire strategy. This plan can help prevent major loss. There are a few benefits that a fire safety plan provides:

1. Protects Lives

A proper building fire plan tells the employees and other associates in the building what to do if there is an emergency. It helps to protect their lives. 

2. Minimal Property Damage

A fire safety plan enables the concerned teams to act in a timely manner and take the necessary steps to deal with the emergency situation. The timely action helps to avoid major damage to the building.

3. Marks a Building Safe

The building, which meets local fire safety codes and has a suitable fire safety plan, is marked safe. Such properties have a higher worth.

How to Develop a Fire Safety Plan for a Commercial Building?

To develop a commercial building fire safety plan, you need to develop a comprehensive plan according to the following steps:

1. Understanding Local Fire Safety Regulations

It is crucial to have knowledge of local fire strategy regulations. The plan should comply with the fire prevention code. The fire safety plans should be aligned with the safety measures suggested by the authorities.

2. Identify Fire Hazards

Identification of all elements that can participate in a fire is also an essential step. All such equipment or systems are mentioned in the fire safety plan. Some common systems are:

• Electrical panels and wiring
• Heating and cooling systems
• Cooking areas
• Fuel sources
• Flammable material in the building

3. Installation of Fire Detection and Alarm System

It is a must in a fire safety plan that the building has a fire detection and alarm system. The fire detection system consists of smoke detectors, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems. This system is used to alert people and control the fire at an early stage.

4. Plan for Firefighting Equipment

A building fire safety plan contains details about firefighting equipment. Number of fire extinguishers, their locations, and type, everything is included in the plan. There can be fire blankets, hose reels, or fire suppression systems available in the building.

5. A Good Evacuation Plan

There can be terrible fires in a building, so the evacuation plan really matters. It should be appropriate and lead to suitable emergency exits. According to the evacuation plan, the signs should be simple, clear, and visible throughout the building. 

6. Train Employees

Along with the people assigned responsibilities to deal with the emergency situation, the other employees should also be familiar with the fire risks, use of fire extinguishers and emergency exits.

7. Availability of Fire Safety Professionals

If the commercial building has a complex structure and it is not possible to apply a simple fire safety plan, then hiring a fire safety consultant is necessary. The consultant will assess the building, identify potential risks, recommend safety upgrades, and help you have a sufficient safety plan. 

What if a Building Already Has a Fire Safety Plan?

Most commercial buildings have already developed strategies to deal with emergencies. Due to a lack of maintenance and a lack of knowledge to use them, the equipment gets worn out over time. The best way out for commercial building owners is to get a regular inspection of their fire safety plans. The inspection report helps to understand if the plan is sufficient and good enough to save lives in emergency situations.

Final Thoughts

It is the responsibility of every commercial building owner to have a fire safety plan. Such plans are easy to make and can help to ensure the safety of the people working or visiting the building. The safety system of a building should be efficient and always in a condition to respond.