Common Mistakes Employees Make During Workplace Fires

Fires can happen unexpectedly, and many people make mistakes that can put themselves and others in danger during a workplace fire. That’s why it’s important to make sure your employees are prepared in case of an emergency. Here are the most common mistakes employees make during workplace fires and what you can do to prevent them.

Panicking

Panicking during a fire can make a bad situation worse. When employees panic, they lose the ability to think clearly, making it more difficult to evacuate safely. If you want to improve safety in your business, take the time to train your employees on what to do in the event of a fire. An employee who is trained on how to act during a fire emergency is more likely to remain calm and collected. Consider conducting regular fire drills to ensure your employees are familiar with the evacuation process.

Using the Wrong Tools

One of the most common myths about fire extinguishers is that all extinguishers are the same. Fire extinguishers actually come in multiple types, and using the wrong one can make a fire worse. For instance, water-based extinguishers work on ordinary fires, but using them on electrical or grease fires can be dangerous.

To avoid this mistake, ensure employees know which extinguishers to use for different types of fires. Label each extinguisher clearly and place them in accessible locations. Training sessions can help everyone understand how to use them properly.

Trying To Save Possessions

In the heat of the moment, some might try to save valuable items instead of evacuating immediately. This decision can be dangerous—no possession is worth risking a life.

Encourage employees to prioritize their safety over everything else. During training, emphasize the importance of leaving belongings behind and focusing on getting out safely. Remind everyone that insurance can replace possessions, but lives are irreplaceable.

Using the Wrong Exit

Choosing the wrong exit can lead to dangerous situations. Employees must know all available exits, not just the main one.

Conduct regular drills to familiarize everyone with the building’s layout. Encourage them to use the nearest exit and avoid blocked or crowded paths. Clear signage pointing to exits can also help in the event of an emergency. By knowing all exits and choosing the safest one, employees can evacuate more efficiently.

Waiting for Professionals

Some employees might choose to wait for firefighters to arrive, thinking it’s better to stay put. But when it comes to fire, every second counts. The longer employees wait for help, the bigger the risk becomes.

Teach employees that in case of a fire, they should evacuate immediately and call for help once they are safely outside. Waiting for professionals can cost precious time and put lives at risk.

Understanding common mistakes employees make during workplace fires helps your business prepare for emergencies. In most cases, thoroughly training your employees on fire safety can prevent these mistakes from happening. By creating a safe and prepared workplace, you can protect your business and the lives of those within it.