Commercial Cleaning and Fire Safety
A major problem that fire risk assessors frequently see when inspecting properties is a lack of good housekeeping. Commercial cleaners can fill a crucial role in helping to maintain good fire safety precautions within a building.
All commercial and certain residential properties should have a fire risk assessment carried out in accordance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
We often find that occupants do not adequately dispose of their rubbish and leave items stored along means of escape passageways and in other inappropriate areas. This can increase the chances of a random arson attack and can also block off escape routes and egress into a building.
Employing a professional commercial cleaner to keep premises clean and to maintain good housekeeping procedures is an ideal way to ensure fire safety compliance.
Good communication and co-operation between fire risk assessors, commercial cleaners and those responsible for health and safety within a building is also crucial. A cleaner can be watchful for overloaded plug sockets, extension leads that are interconnected or portable heaters being used underneath desks or close to flammable materials. They can also ensure extractor fans are kept clean and free from obstruction, the build-up of dirt and grease in these fans can potentially cause electrical breakdown and pose a fire risk. Utility cupboards that house gas and electricity meters should be kept clear.
Another issue fire risk assessors come across frequently is the build-up of combustible materials on the external perimeter of a building. Again these can increase the chances of an arson attack and also block off fire exits. Commercial cleaners can assist with keeping these areas clear.
Fire risk assessors also need to ensure that rooms and buildings are only used for their intended purpose. For example, under no circumstances should flats be used as workshops or for the storage of large quantities of flammable liquids such as petrol. Cleaners can potentially help us identify any such unusual situation or illegal activity and report it.
At Falcon Cleaning and Support Services, we specialise in commercial cleaning services. You can find out more at www.falconcss.co.uk or call us on 07957 638424