As a general rule Fire Risk Assessments for warehouses are very different to those for offices and shops, this document aims to explain why and as such it forms the basis of a proper assessment.
Racking Height and Layout
Fire occurs relatively quickly within high racking systems as they form narrow channels through which air travels upwards rapidly allowing fire to spread upwards within the shortest period of time. An assessment of a warehouse would typically be displayed in a plan format outlining the various stock holding areas and the assessor would highlight areas of potential rapid fire spread. It would also be highlighted whether standard ceiling mounted detectors would have sufficient time to activate in the instance of a fire occurring within the warehouse.
What You Store Matters
Flammable liquids, aerosols, heavy packages and chemicals have different levels of risk and should be assessed individually. The fire and explosion risks in the workplace guidance from the HSE sets out the different levels of risk for these categories of materials and you should record the specific materials you hold and their locations.
Loading Bays and Roller Shutters
Unopened roller shutters form an effective barrier to fire. Assessors check whether or not loading bays are left open overnight and what type of waste is stored in close proximity to doors and roller shutters to check for risk of fire.
Charging Points as Ignition Sources
Charging Points as Ignition Sources – Electric Forklift and HGV Charging Points create heat, the risk of which can be exacerbated by poor maintenance and should be documented in terms of location, ventilation and inspection records for a Fire Risk Assessment Milton Keynes site checklist.
Shift Patterns and Lone Working
A night shift with 2 staff will require a different plan of escape than a busy day shift. Also record the shift pattern to establish who is alone on site at any time and how they would raise the alarm in the event of a fire. Fire Risk Assessment Milton Keynes is covered in more detail at https://isefireproducts.co.uk/fire-risk-assessments/milton-keynes/.
Sprinklers and Compartmentation
Whether a warehouse has a sprinkler system installed or not, as part of a fire risk assessment for warehouses, the assessor will be required to see up to date maintenance records. Also he will require confirmation of how the sprinkler system covers any changes to the layout of the warehouse since the system was installed. Finally he will check compartment walls and fire doors for any gaps, such as those caused by cable runs or new openings fitted retroactively.
Accurate recording of these details is essential between turning a useful Fire Risk Assessment for a Warehouse into a site specific Fire Risk Assessment for a Warehousing environment and completing a load of form filling work.
