Consequences of fire in the workplace

If fire is not taken seriously, the consequences can include:

• Injuries and fatalities. Workplace fires can cause injuries and deaths, in many cases from smoke inhalation or burns. Workers exposed to high levels of heat or smoke can also be at risk of respiratory problems such as asthma.
• Property damage. One of the most significant consequences. In the workplace a fire can spread quickly and destroy large amounts of equipment, stock and important documents.
• Business interruption. Even if a fire is contained quickly and there is little property damage, the workplace may have to close for a time for cleaning and repair, which means lost revenue and customers.
• Emotional trauma. Witnessing a fire or losing a coworker in one can be emotionally traumatic, and can lead to anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Litigation. An organisation may face legal action if someone is injured or killed in a workplace fire. This can be costly and time consuming and can damage reputation.
• Loss of productivity. Employees must deal with the aftermath, including cleaning up, repairing damage and handling insurance claims.
• Higher insurance premiums. After a fire, business insurance premiums may rise, because insurers see the business as a higher risk.
• Damage to reputation. A fire can damage the brand, especially if it receives media coverage, leading to loss of customers and revenue.
• Occupational health and safety problems. Fires can release hazardous materials into the air and harm employees.
• Damage to the environment. Fire is a risk to life in and around the burning structure and can also damage the surrounding environment. If the ground is dry, as in summer, fires can spread through the countryside and burn trees and plants, which also destroys animal habitats. Soot can cover leaves and stop photosynthesis, causing plants to die, and the water or foam used to put out the fire can wash harmful substances into soil and local watercourses, harming plant roots and organisms such as fish.

Summary notes for Element 10 · Cheat sheet · Glossary. A study aid, not published or endorsed by NEBOSH.