Top Workplace Fire Hazards and How to Prevent Them
Workplace fires can cause devastating losses in just minutes, yet many of the most common workplace fire hazards go unnoticed until it’s too late. From overloaded electrical systems to improperly stored flammable liquids, businesses must take proactive steps to prevent fires before they start. Below are the top workplace fire hazards, real-world scenarios of how they commonly ignite, and actionable steps to keep your company safe.
1. Heating Equipment
A small warehouse uses propane-powered radiant heaters to keep employees warm in winter. Over time, dust and debris collect inside the unit, blocking airflow. One day, the heater overheats, igniting nearby cardboard boxes, and flames spread before anyone notices.
Heating equipment, including space heaters, furnaces, and boilers, is a major fire risk when not properly maintained. Common causes of heating-related fires include:
- Space heaters placed too close to combustible materials like curtains, furniture, or office supplies.
- Gas furnaces with cracked heat exchangers, allowing flames to escape and ignite insulation or drywall.
- Blocked air vents and dirty filters, causing heating elements to overheat and catch fire.
How to prevent heating-related fires:
- Use only UL-listed space heaters with tip-over shutoff features.
- Maintain at least three feet of clearance around all heating equipment.
- Clean vents and air filters regularly to prevent dust buildup.
- Schedule annual inspections for all heating systems to check for gas leaks and faulty wiring.
2. Electrical Fires
An office employee plugs a space heater and a mini fridge into the same power strip. The overloaded circuit overheats, melting the insulation inside the wall. Minutes later, a spark ignites nearby materials, and a fire spreads through the breakroom.
Electrical fires are one of the leading causes of workplace fires, often starting behind walls where they go unnoticed until flames appear. Common causes include:
- Overloaded power strips and extension cords, leading to overheating.
- Frayed electrical cords that expose wiring and create sparks.
- Outdated electrical panels unable to handle modern power demands, increasing the risk of shorts and failures.
How to prevent electrical fires:
- Never daisy-chain power strips (plugging one into another) or overload circuits.
- Regularly inspect wiring, outlets, and power cords for damage.
- Upgrade electrical panels and wiring if your building is older.
- Have a licensed electrician inspect your electrical system annually.
3. Flammable Liquids
A cleaning crew leaves an open container of acetone-based floor cleaner near a water heater. The fumes build up in the room, and when the heater’s pilot light clicks on, the vapors ignite, setting off an explosion.
Many workplaces store flammable liquids without realizing how easily they can ignite. Even common items like hand sanitizers, aerosol sprays, and alcohol-based cleaners can pose serious fire hazards when stored improperly.
Common causes of flammable liquid fires include:
- Improper storage of chemicals, leading to spills and vapor buildup.
- Heat exposure, where containers are left near furnaces, water heaters, or direct sunlight.
- Static electricity sparks, which can ignite fuel vapors in poorly ventilated areas.
How to prevent fires caused by flammable liquids:
- Store flammable liquids in approved fire-rated cabinets away from heat sources.
- Keep containers sealed to prevent vapor buildup.
- Ensure proper ventilation in storage areas to reduce the risk of ignition.
- Train employees on the safe handling and disposal of flammable substances.
4. Kitchen Fires
An employee in the office breakroom puts a bag of popcorn in the microwave and walks away. The bag catches fire, setting off the smoke alarm. While this incident is minor, other kitchen fires can be much more dangerous.
Workplace kitchen fires often start due to:
- Unattended cooking, where food is left on a stovetop or in an oven too long.
- Grease buildup on stoves and ovens, making it easier for flames to spread.
- Flammable items like paper towels or plastic containers stored too close to heat sources.
How to prevent workplace kitchen fires:
- Implement a “Stay in the Kitchen” policy—never leave food unattended while cooking.
- Clean grease and food debris from stovetops, ovens, and microwaves regularly.
- Keep flammable items away from hot appliances.
- Install fire suppression systems and Class K fire extinguishers in kitchen areas.
5. Neglected Fire Extinguishers & Untrained Staff
A workplace fire breaks out, and an employee rushes to grab a fire extinguisher. When they pull the pin, nothing happens—the extinguisher hasn’t been inspected in years, and it no longer works. The fire spreads because there’s no functional extinguisher nearby.
Fire extinguishers are a critical first line of defense, but they’re useless if not properly maintained. Common extinguisher-related fire hazards include:
- Expired or depressurized fire extinguishers that won’t discharge when needed.
- Blocked or hidden extinguishers, making them inaccessible during an emergency.
- Using the wrong type of extinguisher, such as attempting to put out a grease fire with a water-based extinguisher.
How to ensure fire extinguishers are ready when needed:
- Conduct monthly checks to confirm extinguishers are in working order.
- Have extinguishers inspected and recharged annually by a professional.
- Train employees on which type of extinguisher to use for different fire types.
Keep Your Workplace Fire-Safe with Safeguard Fire Protection
Fire hazards in the workplace can be devastating, but they are also preventable with the right precautions. Safeguard Fire Protection provides expert fire protection services, including fire extinguisher inspections, fire suppression system installations, and thorough workplace fire safety evaluations.
Whether you need routine inspections or a full fire safety upgrade, Safeguard Fire Protection is your trusted partner in fire prevention. Contact us today to schedule a fire safety assessment and keep your workplace protected.
Feel free to use our online form or call 984-226-4879 to get started.