Behaviour in case of fire at the workplace

The key to being able to act calmly and purposefully in the event of a fire is thorough preparation. Employers are obliged to implement preventive fire safety measures in accordance with the requirements of the authorities and insurers. In addition, regular training on behaviour in the event of a fire in the workplace is mandatory. 

The following points are particularly important for employees:

1. Knowledge of emergency exits and escape routes: every employee should be aware of where the nearest emergency exits and escape routes are located. These should be checked regularly and kept clear.
2. Handling fire alarm systems and fire extinguishers: It is essential to know the locations of fire alarm systems and fire extinguishers. Employees should also be able to operate a fire extinguisher correctly.

3. assembly points: The assembly point outside the building must be known to everyone and checked regularly.

4. regular fire drills: Fire drills are used to train behaviour in the event of an emergency. They help employees to act safely and efficien

Good to know: Annual fire safety training is mandatory for all employees. In addition, most companies require a certain number of fire safety assistants. As a rule, at least 5% of the workforce must be trained as fire safety assistants. Regular refresher training is also essential.

If a fire occurs despite all precautions, quick but considered action and a clear structure are crucial. The following steps describe the best behaviour in the event of a fire in the workplace:

1. keep calm and act decisively
   Panic prevents considered action. A calm head helps to avoid mistakes. This is particularly important in areas such as retirement homes or doctors' surgeries where vulnerable people are being cared for.
2. report a fire
   In the event of a fire, the fire must be reported directly via the fire alarm system or the emergency number 112 so that help can arrive as quickly as possible.
3. leave the building quickly
   The building should be exited as quickly as possible via the nearest emergency exits and escape routes. Lifts must not be used as they may fail in the event of a fire. If possible, doors should be closed to slow down the spread of smoke and fire.
4. offer assistance to people in need of help
   In facilities such as retirement homes or doctors' surgeries, it may be necessary to assist people with reduced mobility. However, their own safety must not be disregarded.
5. Gather at the assembly point
   After the evacuation, go to the pre-determined assembly point. A check is made there to ensure that everyone has left the building safely. The assembly point may only be left after the all-clear has been given by the fire brigade or incident command.
    

Important: Only use fire extinguishers for small fires

The use of a fire extinguisher can be considered if the fire is still small and controllable. However, this should only be done if you feel safe and can operate the extinguisher correctly. If the situation is unsafe, leave the building immediately.

Correct behaviour in the event of a fire in the workplace is crucial to protect human life.

Employers have a responsibility to regularly train their employees and carry out fire drills. Employees must be familiar with escape routes, fire extinguishers and assembly points.

Calm, decisive action and adherence to the prescribed procedures are the best prerequisites for surviving a fire safely.