Suggestions for Commercial Fire Damage Prevention

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

It is sometimes a small fire that can develop into massive fire damage destroying a building.  A small flare-up or flash fire can wreak havoc on a condo or multiple floors of an apartment or business building if safeguards are not maintained.

If you own a building, you do not have complete control over what residents or employees may be doing. You can develop a fire prevention plan to help lessen the risk of fire damage. The following are the most common fire hazards leading to fire damage in a Garland structure that forces a closure. SERVPRO agrees that the following measures can help prevent fire and water damage.

Smoking. Maintain designated areas for smoking when necessary. If possible, with the warm climate in Garland, this can be an outside area. Typically, inside smoking is no longer permitted.
 
Electrical Wiring and Equipment. Install equipment and wires in compliance with local codes and OSHA regulations. Make sure maintenance is done by licensed electricians. Do not overload outlets or use long extension cords.

Fuel Gas. Install equipment in compliance with local codes and OSHA regulations. Professionals oversee maintenance.

Heat-Producing Appliances/Equipment/Boilers. Install equipment in compliance with manufacturers' recommendations and local codes. Allow only trained personnel to operate equipment.

Flammable/Combustible Liquids. These should be stored in approved cabinets, containers, and well ventilated and fortified areas. All workers must be trained in how to handle these dangerous products.
There should be locking metal containers for waste, which should be disposed of daily. Assess areas as safe for usage. Contractors must follow facility procedures and report all use of flammable liquids.

Fuel Gas Cylinders.  These must be stored in a well-ventilated area, with any oxygen tanks a minimum of 20 feet away. Assess areas as safe for usage. Prevention mechanisms must be in place, such as chains so that they cannot topple over. They should be transported on cylinder carts in upright positions. They should be used at least 20 feet away from hazards with "Hot Work" or "Hot Work Procedure" signs. Only trained personnel should use them.

Oxygen Cylinders. These must be stored at least 20 feet away from flammable or highly combustible material and in well-ventilated locations. Cylinders should be secured to prevent tipping over. They should also be transported on cylinder carts in upright positions. Only trained personnel should use them.

Propane Vehicles. Only trained personnel should use them. They must be properly maintained. Drivers must be trained to handle the propane and the vehicle safely. Cylinders must be safely stored. Maintenance of cylinders must be done by a reputable supplier.

Electric Vehicles, with particular attention to golf cart barns. They must be properly maintained. They must be charged in well-ventilated areas that have been approved for this purpose. No arcing or sparks. This requires special care since it can be an open area to the public.

In the unfortunate event that your business or apartment building incurs fire damage along with water damage and smoke intrusion, call the experts at SERVPRO of South Garland. You will receive an immediate response from us, and we will get you back to pre-fire conditions as quickly as is possible. "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of South Garland for immediate assistance at the following always open line (972)278-7871.