There is no doubt that implementing good housekeeping practices in offices and workplaces  can significantly reduce the chances of a fire starting and will help to minimise its spread if a fire does break out.  The following is a list of guidelines to ensure that your work premises has as low a risk of an office fire as possible.

• Ensure that all fire exits and fire escape routes are cleared from obstructions at all times.
• Ensure all air conditioning or conditioning/heating units are regularly serviced and maintained to reduce a build up of dust and dirt and to make sure they are working effectively.
• Check that all electrical appliances are in good working order, that plugs are not overloaded and that unused electrical items are switched off at the end of the working day.
• Have good security systems in place to deter arson attacks.
• Store solvents and all other flammable materials away from sources of heat.
• Fire extinguishers should be tested and maintained at least once a year.
• Ensure that all escape routes are well lit with the appropriate fire safety signs displayed.
• Keep your fire register up to date.
• Do not stack rubbish so high that it could impede the effective operation of sprinklers or fire alarm systems.
• Carry out regular fire alarm tests.
• Keep stationery/archive cupboard doors closed at all times, particularly if they contain large amounts of paper.
• Ensure that all equipment that could provide a source of ignition is left in a safe condition, even when not in use.

Remember that after October 2006 all business must now carry out a fire risk assessment and maintain a fire management plan, Assseco can help businesses to perform their fire risk assessment and produce a suitable fire management plan.