Fire Brigade industrial action

Insurance brokers, Marsh Ltd, are urging companies to take extra fire safety precautions during the planned industrial action by the UK’s Fire Brigade Union.  The strikes, scheduled to take place today and on 5-7 November, represent a potentially serious threat, with an increased chance of them being unable to control a fire on their premises.

Amongst other recommended preventative measures to reduce the risks:

•Do not leave electrical equipment on during non-working periods, as this is the second most common cause of fire in the UK after arson
•Ensure sprinkler system and water supply tests and checks are carried out.
•Check all fire extinguishers to ensure that they are in position and serviced.
•Check that all automatic and manual fire alarm / detection systems are operational.
•Be extra vigilant against the threat of arson by ensuring a minimum of external combustible storage and by moving waste bins away from buildings; potential arsonists will be aware of the strike.
•Ensure that intruder alarms are fully operational.
•Consider additional security patrols, especially out of working hours and in unattended areas.