Fires can occur in any premises, but hospitality businesses are particularly vulnerable due to the nature of work activities in kitchens.
Restaurant/Takeaway
Restaurant/
Takeaway
Fire Safety in the Kitchen: Igniting Safety, Extinguishing Risks in Your Hospitality Business
If a fire ignites in a commercial kitchen, it not only presents a grave danger to the staff and the longevity of the establishment but also jeopardizes the safety of your guests. The unfamiliarity of your premises to patrons can significantly hinder their ability to evacuate swiftly, increasing the risk of harm. This scenario underscores the critical importance for those tasked with fire safety management within the hospitality industry to be vigilant and thorough in their approach to risk assessments and safety protocols.
Fighting Flames with Knowledge: Risk Management in Hospitality
Understanding the unique hazards that commercial kitchens face, such as the potential for grease fires, the improper storage of flammable materials, or the malfunction of cooking equipment, is paramount. Regularly evaluating these elements and ensuring that all safety measures meet or exceed regulatory standards can make a significant difference in preventing fires. Training staff on emergency procedures, the correct use of fire extinguishers, and the importance of maintaining clear escape routes are essential steps in fostering a culture of safety. It is crucial that this training is not a one-time event but an ongoing process, reflecting changes in staff, equipment, and regulations.
- 25% Kitchen Appliances
- 23% Cooker
- 17% Electrical Distribution
Top 3 reasons for a fire in a kitchen/ restaurant
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 there is a requirement placed on the “Responsible Person” to carry out a fire risk assessment – to identify any possible risks, to reduce or remove those risks and to implement any precautions necessary to ensure that persons on the premises could be alerted and would be able to escape safely in the event of a fire occurring.
- Protect lives by taking action now
- Ensure compliance – you may face an unlimited fine and even time in prison if you don’t meet your legal obligations
- It makes good business sense – the Association of British Insurers reported that around 60% of private businesses never recover from a fire.
