How one factory transformed fire safety & avoided catastrophic losses
Preventing fire damage, protecting assets, and ensuring compliance
The following case study provides an in-depth analysis of a factory's fire safety issues and the strategic matters undertaken by Red Box Fire Control to address them.
The primary focus lies on identifying existing inefficiencies and rectifying them to ensure a safer and more compliant environment. Through a comprehensive survey and methodology, we aim to demonstrate the importance of proper fire safety management in industrial settings.
The impact of compliant fire safety
This case was particularly unique, as not long after the assessment and application of safe and compliant fire safety measures, a fire broke out within the premises.
Red Box Fire Control were later informed by the client that due to having the correct measures in place at the time of the incident, and their recent focus on improving their fire strategy and policy, the situation was contained. The fast incident response plan also contributed significantly to isolating the incident, preventing it from becoming much worse.
The hidden fire risk most businesses overlook
Upon initial inspection, it was revealed that fire safety arrangements were inconsistent and lacked a coherent strategy, which was particularly crucial given the hazardous production areas within the factory. This inadequancy left the client at significant risk, potentially affecting insurance validity, risking harm to personnel and more.
High-cost machinery was endangered due to the use of innappropriate fire extinguishers, such as ABC Dry Powder, which could cause contamination and extensive cleanup costs.
Drawbacks of Powder include:
- Reduced visibility upon discharge, which is problematic near escape routes.
- Respiratory irritation
- Limited cooling properties
- Risk of corrosion & contamination.
While Dry Powder extinguishers are effective, they were not appropriate for the scenario presented.
It is essential to reassess fire safety measures to mitigate these risks effectively.
The dangers of using the wrong fire extinguisher
Ensuring fire safety is a critical aspect of any premises, with the correct use of fire extinguishers playing a pivotal role in protecting lives and property.
Utilising the wrong extinguisher can quickly transform a controllable incident into an uncontrollable emergency, potentially causing far greater damage.
Employing the incorrect fire extinguisher can intensify a fire, causing chemicals to react in destructive ways or even trigger secondary hazards such as explosions. For example; the use of a water extinguisher on an electrical or oil-based fire can cause the fire to spread more rapidly.
Click below to learn more about the risks of using the wrong fire extinguishers when it matters most.
The Risks of Using the Wrong Extinguishers
The importance of correct placement of fire fighting equipment
Ensuring the correct placement of firefighting equipment is essential for facilitating rapid and safe access during an emergency. When equipment is strategically located, delays in firefighting response are minimised, thereby significantly enhancing the safety of all occupants.
Moreover, adhering to these placement protocols guarantees compliance with fire safety regulations, potentially safeguarding your business from legal complications.
How Red Box Fire Control resolved the problem - Step-by-step
In order to effectively address the issues, the first step was to carry out a full comprehensive survey to identify all areas of concern and to identify the fire extinguisher requirements in line with industry standard. This initial analysis revealed several critical deficiencies in the existing fire safety measures.
The following steps were then taken, once the proposal had been agreed:
- Obtain a full set of plans showing the building layout
- Using the plans, conduct a full survey of the premises
- Conduct a full survey of each department
- Compile an asset register of all existing portable appliances, plot any existing, propose any additional ones where necessary
- Assess fire extinguisher requirements within each department, in line with BS 5306 requirements, to ensure compliance.
A fully indexed proposal was then sent to the client with all recommendations of works, highlighting existing deficiencies, shortfalls or irregularities with the current fire cover.
It is necessary to use the appropriate extinguishers for specific areas in warehouses and factories. Various factors, including the likelihood of different types of fires and the equipment in the surrounding areas, should be considered.
The results: Safer, smarter, compliant
Once the proposal had been accepted Red Box Fire Control began to strategically place fire cover throughout the premises.
A clear strategy had been created, with the clear locations of all fire-fighting appliances conspicuously positioned and appropriately signed for ease of identification by any potential user.
Choosing the correct firefighting equipment
Ensuring the right fire extinguishers are installed in commercial premises is an extremely important part of creating a safe and compliant working environment.
There is no single type of fire extinguisher which is suitable for all classes of fire, so many premises have more than one type installed in various locations.
Types of extinguishers
There are five main types of extinguishers;- Water, Foam, CO2, Dry Powder, and Wet Chemical. Though they are classified into these main types, there are various versions of Dry Powder and Water Extinguishers which means a total of eight different types of fire extinguishers to choose from.
- Water
- Water Mist
- Water Spray
- Foam
- Dry Powder - Standard
- Dry Powder - Specialist
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
- Wet Chemical.
If you'd like to learn the various types of extinguishers and their uses, click below to read the blog.
Fire Extinguisher Types and When to Use Them
Why choose Red Box Fire Control?
With over 38 years of experience, we have built established trust-based relationships through consistent focus on quality and integrity.
Our experience and ethical approach
Over more than three decades, Red Box Fire Control has developed an unmatched expertise in providing comprehensive fire safety services. We offer a wide frange of solutions including:-
Our technical approach ensures that every client receives service that meets the most stringent safety requirements.
Personalised & thorough implementation
Each fire safety solution we provide is meticulously tailored to the unique requirements of our clients. Our bespoke approach guarantees that our services align perfectly with the specific needs of each establishment.
