Fire Safety at Accommodation Centres: Prevention and Risk Assessment
1. Introduction
Fires at accommodations are often caused by the lifestyles of the students living there. In many cases, the fire is started by a cigarette that has not been extinguished properly or by electrical appliances that have been left on. Other times, the fire is started by a flammable substance that has been left near a heat source.
2. Causes of fire at accommodation centre
2.1 Flammable substances
Flammable substances are the most common cause of fires at accommodation centres. These substances can be found in many different places, such as in cupboards, on shelves, or in the trash. It is very important to make sure that these substances are stored properly and away from any heat sources.
2. 2 Electrical appliances
Another common cause of fires at accommodation centres is electrical appliances that have been left on. These appliances can include TVs, radios, stereos, and computers. It is important to make sure that these appliances are turned off when they are not in use.
3. Risk assessment
3.1 Removal of flammable substances
The first step in reducing the risk of fire is to remove all flammable substances from the accommodation centre. This includes any liquids, such as cleaning products, paint thinners, and fuels. It also includes any solids, such as wood, paper, and plastics. All of these materials should be stored in a safe place, such as a storage shed or garage.
3. 2 Electrical appliances
The next step in reducing the risk of fire is to make sure that all electrical appliances are turned off when they are not in use. This includes TVs, radios, stereos, and computers. If an appliance is not being used for an extended period of time, it should be unplugged from the wall outlet.
4. Fire safety at accommodation centre mustn’t be Ignored! Taking Fire Safety Seriously Saves Lives! Here’s How: Smoke Alarms & Extinguishers Save Lives! Install Them and Test Them Regularly! Ventilation Is Important! Remove Gases From The Kitchen Before TheyHave A Chance To Build Up! Properly Maintain All Gas Lines and Fittings! Get Your Hot Work Permit Before You Start Any Welding or Cutting Jobs! Follow All Safety Procedures When Working With Electricity! Never Use Candles In Your Room! Use Flashlights Instead! Never Smoke In Bed! Keep Matches and Lighters Away From Children! Fires Start Small But Can Grow Quickly Into Major disasters If Left Untended! evacuate Immediately If A Fire Starts! Do Not Stop To Grab Valuables On The Way Out! The Following actions will help you prevent fires: Don’t overload electrical sockets or outlets. Always unplug appliances when you’re not using them, especially if they generate heat (e.g. coffee makers, toasters, hair straighteners, etc.). Don’t leave cooking unattended. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a short time, turn off the stove. Don’t smoke inside. If you must smoke, do so outside and away from the building. Dispose of cigarette butts properly. Never throw them in the trash can or on the ground. Keep flammable materials away from heat sources (e.g. candles, space heaters, stoves). Store them in a cool, dry place. Use caution when using extension cords. Make sure they are certified and in good condition. Do not nail or staple them to walls or baseboards. Do not run them under rugs or carpets.
5. Permits to work
If you are planning to do any work that involves fire or heat, such as welding or cutting, you must first get a permit from the fire department. This permit is issued after a fire safety inspection has been conducted and the work area has been found to be safe.
6. Hot work
Hot work is any work that produces sparks or heat. This includes welding, cutting, and grinding. Hot work must be done in a designated area that is safe from fire hazards. Before starting any hot work, be sure to check for flammable materials and remove them from the area.
Conclusion:
Fires at accommodation centres are often caused by the lifestyles of the students living there. In many cases, the fire is started by a cigarette that has not been extinguished properly or by electrical appliances that have been left on. Other times, the fire is started by a flammable substance that has been left near a heat source. The best way to prevent these fires is to remove all flammable substances from the accommodation centre and make sure that all electrical appliances are turned off when they are not in use.