The 8 most common causes of workplace fires

Here, we look at the most common causes of such fires and what can be done to reduce the risks. Our general information is relevant worldwide, though some regulations and guidance are UK-specific.

The content has been sourced from IOSH Fire Risk Management Group publications.

1. Faulty or misused electrical equipment

This is the leading cause, accounting for 25 per cent of workplace fires in the UK. Fires could be due to damaged cables, loose wiring, old equipment or overloaded sockets, all of which can result in sparks or overheating.

All electrical equipment should be well maintained, regularly tested and replaced as necessary. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require a business to carry out Electrical Inspection Condition Reports (EICR) every five years. Recommendations for the frequency of PAT testing depend on the type of workplace and equipment.

2. Flammable or combustible materials

Flammable materials such as paper, cardboard and wood can fuel and escalate a fire, so must be stored appropriately and disposed of regularly.

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) provide guidance about the safe storage of flammable liquids such as petrol, oil, solvents, thinners and cleaning agents.

The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) set out minimum requirements to protect workers from the fire and explosion risks related to dangerous or explosive substances.

3. Dirt and clutter

Workplaces should be kept clean and tidy to prevent rubbish, dirt, dust and grease from building up, which can obstruct vents or fans and cause machinery or other equipment to overheat. Similarly, clutter on desks and around computers can also pose a hazard.

Regular cleaning, inspections and staff reminders about keeping the place tidy should help limit the risks, as well as help to ensure escape routes are clear in the event of a fire.

4. Human error

Human error is a significant factor, with UK Government statistics suggesting it contributes to 85 per cent of fires in the workplace. This includes improper use of machinery, failing to follow health and safety guidelines, spilling flammable liquids and overusing equipment.

The risks can be reduced by ensuring all staff are fully aware of health and safety guidelines, with regular refresher training. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO), staff should be given appropriate fire safety training on the first day of their employment.

5. Smoking

Discarded cigarettes can easily set light to nearby flammable materials, such as waste paper in rubbish bins.

All businesses should have a signposted designated smoking area for staff at least a few metres away from the building (and well away from flammable substances or hazardous liquids stores), with a safe place to dispose of smoking materials.

6. Cooking

A common place for fires to start is in the staff canteen or kitchen, where the potential presence of open flames, hot surfaces and flammable liquids such as cooking oil can all pose a fire hazard.

Make sure staff are aware of and follow kitchen safety procedures, with relevant signage in these cooking areas, and that they receive training so they know what to do if a fire breaks out.

7. Arson

Around a fifth of fires on business premises are caused by arson, with unattended industrial and commercial sites the most common targets for vandals.

As well as automatic fire detection systems (such as smoke alarms), installing CCTV cameras and motion sensor lights around the building can act as a deterrent, and fire suppression systems such as sprinklers fitted throughout the premises should limit the damage caused by any such attack.

8. Substandard safety measures

Out-of-date fire risk assessments, poorly maintained fire alarm systems and lack of staff fire safety training can result in fires that could have been avoided or prevented from spreading.

Always make sure equipment is inspected, systems are tested, staff training is kept up and fire drills are regularly carried out to keep your business and employees safe.

Guidance around such measures can be found in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FS0), which is the main piece of legislation governing fire safety in the workplace in England and Wales.