Consider these examples. In September 2007, the Myer Hobart building burnt down in broad daylight and, according to the Tasmania Fire Service’s report to the Coroner, the most likely cause of the blaze was “overloading” and “failure of electrical wiring” in a ceiling space.
In January 2008, a spark from a welder ignited nearby ethanol fumes at Drayton’s Family Winery in the Hunter Valley causing a massive explosion that killed two people. And in December 2011, the Nerang Tennis Centre in Queensland was destroyed by an arsonist in one of five suspicious fires on that day, as reported by ABC News.
These fires could potentially have been prevented if the risk factors had been adequately addressed. And given 43% of businesses that experience disasters, such as fire, never re-open, and 29% close within two years (according to McGladrey and Pullen, 2004), it pays to take precautions.
Risk 1: Electrical faults
One of the most effective ways to identify potential electrical hot spots is to commission a thermal imaging survey of your premises. This non-intrusive technique detects electrical system and equipment hazards, such as corroded connections, damaged wiring and overheated circuits that are usually not visible to the naked eye.
Another common cause of electrical fires is high density discharge (HID) lights, which are commonly used in warehouses. These lights are highly hazardous when used over combustible materials because of their propensity to blow fragments of hot shards of glass on the surrounding area. Installing double-shrouded bulbs or covers can help to avoid this problem.
It goes without saying that you should immediately replace any electrical hazards that are visible to the naked eye, such as frayed chords, and only use appropriate equipment in wet/damp locations.
Risk 2: Hot work
Poor supervision of hot work (e.g. welding, grinding and cutting), which can create sparks or embers, is responsible for countless fires each year.
Implementing a hot work permit system ensures appropriate checks and measures are taken when doing hot work, such as the removal (or shielding) of any combustible materials, surveying the site for any potentially explosive gases/fumes, and ensuring the area is adequately ventilated (flammable vapours).
It is vital to conduct a fire watch 30 minutes after hot works have been completed and to have an appropriate fire extinguisher on hand in case of fire.
Only appropriately trained staff and tradesmen should ever be permitted to do hot work on your premises, and they should always be fully supervised by an authorised person.
Risk 3: Arson
The best way to prevent arson is to increase security. To avoid arsonists from getting into your building, always ensure all access doors and windows are securely locked after hours. Pay special attention to letterbox openings, which are a popular place to start a fire. If your mailbox opens onto combustible surroundings, install an anti-arson letterbox that’s purpose-built to contain a fire.
If your building is surrounded by a yard, secure the perimeter with a robust fence to help keep out unwanted intruders. And don’t store combustible materials (e.g. idle wooden pallets, bins and other potential fuel sources) in close proximity to your building. Either store these materials inside your building overnight or position them well away from the walls in a secure storage compound or container.
Probably the best visual deterrent against both arson and theft is a CCTV camera and good lighting. If your business is in an isolated area or at high risk of arson, you should also consider installing CCTV cameras.
Ultimately, the way your business addresses risks, including fire, will also impact your company’s insurability and premiums – why it’s well worth the effort to get this right.
To find out more about Lumley Insurance’s small business solutions, visit Lumley for Business or Contact your local insurance broker.
Lester Lai is the National Risk Surveying Manager for Lumley Insurance. He manages a team of risk surveyors who help Lumley’s SME clients better manage their property risks.
