Top 5 Common Fire Safety Failures Found During Workplace Inspections (and How to Avoid Them)
Protect your people, your premises, and your peace of mind
A fire can devastate a business in minutes. Many of the most serious risks are completely preventable. At MAGG Fire Services, we regularly carry out Fire Risk Assessments across the West Midlands and beyond, and we often see the same issues occur time and again.
Here are five of the most common fire safety failures and how to make sure they never happen in your workplace.
1. Blocked or Obstructed Fire Exits
Fire exits must be clear, unlocked, and easily accessible at all times. Storing boxes, equipment, or even furniture in these areas can delay evacuation and cost lives.
How to avoid it: Carry out weekly checks to ensure all exits are clear and free from obstruction.
2. Expired or Damaged Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are only effective if they are in good condition and within their service date. We still find expired units or those with missing pins, damaged hoses, or poor signage.
How to avoid it: Book regular fire extinguisher servicing and replace any damaged units immediately.
3. Faulty or Non-Compliant Alarm Systems
A working alarm system is essential for early detection. However, we have seen alarms that fail to meet current standards or have not been tested in months.
How to avoid it: Test alarms weekly and schedule professional servicing for alarms and emergency lighting in line with UK fire safety regulations.
4. Poorly Maintained Passive Fire Protection
Fire doors that do not close properly, damaged intumescent strips, or unsealed cable penetrations all compromise your building’s ability to contain fire.
How to avoid it: Arrange regular passive fire protection inspections to identify and fix any weaknesses.
5. Incomplete Staff Fire Safety Training
Even with the right equipment, untrained staff can make dangerous mistakes in an emergency.
How to avoid it: Provide fire awareness and extinguisher training for all staff, and appoint trained fire marshals.
Final Word
A safe workplace is a compliant workplace. By addressing these common issues before your next inspection, you will not only stay on the right side of the law, you will protect lives.
MAGG Fire Services offers a complete range of fire safety services to keep your business ready, protected, and compliant.