As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure—which is ultimately the reason why there are plenty of fire watch services in the Bay Area in the first place. However, what exactly is a fire watch service? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a fire watch may be a team or an individual stationed in a building or other public space to watch for potential fire hazards, report any they see, and alert the fire department or building occupants to the situation.
In short, a fire watch service’s task is to effectively prevent fires and protect the employees and the building itself, ensuring companies’ smooth and safe operation.
Understanding the Importance of Fire Watch Service
The efficiency of a company’s operating procedures is crucial to its success. The more effective a system is, the more money it saves and makes for a company. However, that process could easily crumble if one is unprepared for something disastrous such as an accidental fire—which is precisely where fire watch services come in.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), more than 200 workplace fires occur every day, with more than 5,000 people injured due to the fire every year. Due to the sheer amount of workplace occurrences, some states require companies to have a fire watch in the building.
In addition, the NFPA reports that cutting, welding, and placing heat sources too close to combustibles account for most fires in the workplace.
Having fire watch services available is crucial if you are responsible for a sizable commercial facility. There is no longer any building that does not have fire alarms and fire extinguishers installed in them. Fire watch services may provide peace of mind that they will protect all your valuable objects, no matter how dangerous the work environment is.
Several businesses deal with flammable materials and heat sources, like in construction, which could quickly spark a minor fire. As a result, the NFPA mandates that companies hire fire watch services in the Bay Area who is responsible for the safety of the building’s occupants in the event of a fire.
In addition, as fire watch services are experts in the field, they are aware of any flammable materials on the premises. Even if no activities occur, the fire watch should ensure that the area is always safe from fire threats.
Responsibilities of a Fire Watch
While it is customary for the building’s administration to operate the fire alarm system, this is only sometimes the case. People assigned as fire watchers must ensure everyone knows they must evacuate the building promptly and that all exits are marked.
Putting in the effort required to set up a reliable fire watch is crucial. They should systematically check the building regularly; an hourly check by the fire watch service is recommended.
If a fire watch service is assigned fire watch duty, that person must have access to the appropriate fire extinguishing equipment. They must use a suitable fire extinguisher in the event of a fire. This is especially true if flammable materials, electricity, oils, or grease are in the work area. The fire watch needs to be familiar with the fire suppression tools.
Fire watch service is responsible for monitoring the workplace, all exits, and any alterations or obstructions that could impede a quick and orderly evacuation at all times. The fire watch service must check storage facilities, crawl spaces, and other hidden spots where sparks or slag may have been hurled during construction.
Not only do these fire watch services keep an eye out for fires, but they also document the results of their patrols. Having these records on hand can be quite helpful for businesses when reporting incidents to authorities and insurers.
A fire watch service will notify the authorities and help coordinate the response to a fire. Fire watch services in the Bay Area may not put out flames, but their vigilance and prompt action go a long way in limiting the extent of any damage that may happen.
Need Fire Watch in San Francisco?
Although efficiency may seem essential to a business, safety should be just as important. After all, you can’t work correctly if you constantly have to stop working due to a fire that one could have prevented. Not only does it cost money, but it also wastes time.
This is why it’s essential to hire fire watch services in the Bay Area that would help you think of preventive measures and know how to act in case of emergencies. If you’re looking for a reliable fire watch service in San Francisco, feel free to check out Protection Corps Security Service and their knowledgeable crew of fire watchers.