The holidays are a time for fun and celebration, yet hidden dangers may lurk around your workplace during this festive season. Overloaded outlets, unsafe extension cords and open flames are among the leading causes of accidental fires and injuries in the workplace during the holidays. Keep your employees and clients safe this Christmas by eliminating potential hazards using these top safety tips.
Cords and Outlets
Use caution when decorating your workspace with decorations that require electricity. Frayed wires and loose connections can overheat and ignite a fire.
- Before hanging lights or plugging in decorations that require electricity, inspect the cords for damage.
- Avoid using extension cords whenever possible.
- If an extension cord is necessary, use a heavy duty cord.
- Do not overload outlets, as overloaded outlets may short or spark.
- Never staple or tack extension cords to the floor or wall, as this damages the cord.
Open Flames
Candles lend an air of ambiance during the holiday season. Unfortunately, open flames can ignite combustible materials such as garland and are easily knocked over, which can ignite a fire. Follow these tips to avoid dangers from decorations with open flames.
- Avoid using candles to decorate trees.
- Keep flammable materials away from candles.
Christmas Trees
Christmas trees are a festive and traditional decoration that appeal to employees and customers alike. You can express your creativity when decorating Christmas trees in the workplace, using ornaments related to your business or traditional sparkling bulbs and garland. However, Christmas trees can become a safety concern if proper care is not undertaken.
- If using a live tree, purchase one that is freshly cut.
- Replenish the water for live trees on a daily basis. Dried out trees are a fire hazard.
- Turn off the lights on your Christmas tree when closing the business at the end of the day.
Fall Prevention
During the holidays, hazards on the floors can lead to increased risks of tripping, slipping and falling in the workplace. Wet and slippery floors can cause falls, while decorations can block entrances and exits.
- Keep floors dry using non-skid rugs.
- De-ice sidewalks and steps.
- Avoid obstructing stairs, entrances and exits with decorations.
- Secure cords to the floor with electrical tape.
Decorating your workplace provides joy and celebration to the holiday season. Taking safety steps such as providing regular care for live Christmas trees, keeping floors clear and dry and inspecting electrical cords and devices helps prevent safety and fire hazards from ruining the splendour of the holiday season at your place of work.
About The Author
This article was written by Phill, representing Fire Safety Store.