🔥 5 Common Fire Hazards in Commercial Buildings — And How to Avoid Them

At Omega Fire & HSE Services Ltd, we specialise in helping businesses stay compliant and safe. Here are five common fire hazards we frequently find in commercial premises—and how you can avoid them.

1. Overloaded Electrical Sockets

The Risk:
Plugging too many devices into a single outlet can cause overheating and, eventually, fire. Extension leads daisy-chained together are especially hazardous.

Prevention Tips:

• Use purpose-designed power strips with surge protection.

• Avoid using multiple extension leads.

• Have a qualified electrician assess your power load needs.

2. Blocked or Obstructed Fire Exits

The Risk:
Blocked escape routes can delay evacuation, increasing the risk of injury or death during a fire.

Prevention Tips:

• Conduct regular walk-throughs to ensure exits and corridors are clear.

• Keep fire exit signs well-lit and visible.

• Train staff to report any obstructions immediately.

3. Poor Housekeeping and Clutter

The Risk:
Combustible materials like cardboard, paper, and packaging can easily catch fire—especially if stored near heat sources.

Prevention Tips:

• Store flammable items in designated areas away from ignition sources.

• Dispose of waste regularly.

• Maintain clear floors and aisles to prevent fire spread.

4. Lack of Staff Fire Safety Training

The Risk:
Even with the best fire safety equipment, untrained staff may panic or misuse it in an emergency.

Prevention Tips:

• Conduct regular fire drills.

• Provide fire extinguisher and evacuation training.

• Assign and train fire wardens for every shift.

5. Neglected Fire Doors and Equipment

The Risk:
Damaged or poorly maintained fire doors won’t hold back flames or smoke, undermining your evacuation plan.

Prevention Tips:

• Schedule routine fire door inspections (now required in many buildings under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022).

• Test alarms and emergency lighting regularly.

• Keep maintenance records up to date.

Are You Due a Fire Risk Assessment?

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all commercial premises must have a fire risk assessment in place. If yours hasn’t been reviewed in the last 12 months—or if you’ve made changes to the layout, staffing, or processes—it’s time to get it updated.

At Omega Fire & HSE Services Ltd, we provide expert, accredited fire risk assessments tailored to your premises and legal obligations. We’ll identify hazards, recommend practical steps, and help you stay compliant with confidence.

📞 Ready to Take Action?

Contact us today for a free consultation or to schedule your next fire risk assessment

Stay safe. Stay compliant. Trust Omega.