Fire is a very real danger for both residential and commercial buildings across the UK. Pubs, bars and taverns are not exempt, with irresponsible smokers, faulty kitchen equipment and open hearths all contributing to the danger of a blaze. So what can you do to minimise the risks? Read on for our top tips on how to fire proof your pub.
Know your responsibilities
According to the UK government, “if you’re an owner, landlord or occupier of business or other non-domestic premises, you’ll be responsible for fire safety.” Your official title is the ‘responsible person’ and you’ll be required to ensure that the premises, your employees and your customers are adequately protected from fire risks.
Carry out fire risk assessment checks
Keep your safety strategy up-to-the-minute by regularly carrying out fire risk assessment checks. These should involve identifying any risks and immediately taking steps to manage them.
Fire protection devices
If your pub does encounter a blaze it’s critical to have easy and instant access to fire extinguishing equipment. As well as a fire extinguisher you can also place fire blankets in strategic places around the premises.
Check electrical appliances
In the same way that residential landlords are required to check electrical appliances, so too are pub owners. As well as the kitchen you should also carry out safety checks on other items such as hand dryers, juke boxes and televisions.
Migrate to the cloud
From business insurance certificates and employee pay records to order inventories and property deeds, any important data and information should be safely stored in the cloud. Or at least backed up and kept in a second, off premises location. This will ensure that if your pub does go up in flames you won’t have lost irreplaceable information.
Smarter smoking
It’s against the law for smokers to light up inside however if you’re going to allow it outdoors, be sure to offer plenty of ashtrays where cigarettes can be safely stubbed out.
Open fires
In the winter open fires are a guaranteed way to draw in punters on the search for warmth. They can be wonderfully cosy however they can also be dangerous when not properly managed. If you plan on lighting up your furnace ensure that you have a fire guard in place to prevent any stray logs or embers. You should also be careful not to place any furniture or carpets too close to the hearth.
Unfortunately, no matter how careful you are there is always the risk of an accidental blaze. In this scenario it pays to be protected by a pub insurance policy that covers the cost of repairing the damage, as well as reimbursing your business for any unexpected shutdown time.