Fire Risk - Some Unseen Dangers!

Where ever there is a profusion of people living or working in close proximity the risk of fire increases.

By Robert Dewhurst

Where ever there is a profusion of people living or working in close proximity the risk of fire increases. This is nothing new as was evident in 1666 when a baker on Pudding Lane forgot to douse the burning embers of his oven, and started the great fire of London

A more recent example of the massive cost that can be incurred was provided by Cunard who had to recall a ship to harbour for a major re-fit because one component in the cabins did not fully meet the flame standards required.

“The world's biggest luxury liner has arrived in its home port with just hours to put right fire safety rule breaches revealed by a BBC probe.“ (BBC News: UK edition).

The complexity of British Standards (BS) and fire regulations can affect your business? All furniture in the UK must meet the flame retardant standards. For contract use both drapes and upholstery must meet the higher BS standards. This affects any buildings where people gather such as offices, shops, hotels, pubs and restaurants. Failure to comply can result in prosecution.

If you use any textiles in procurement or decoration, do you know what standards they need to meet? Do they comply? Don’t be complacent. Don’t take the risk. You never know what the cost could be!

Robert Dewhurst is an Associate of the Institute for Independent Business.