You should be familiar with fire regulations in every workplace. This cannot be underestimated, because when there is a fire in a building, you need to know how to behave. We get acquainted with the basic regulations during the initial OHS training - no matter what position we work in. However, it is worth supplementing this knowledge with a fire-fighting course. We then have a guarantee that thanks to the training, employees will be safe in the event of an emergency.

Legal issues relating to the building

First of all, the workplace building must meet the basic EU requirements for building structures. One of them is fire safety, which determines that in the event of a fire, the building must maintain the load-bearing capacity of the structure. Then it is also necessary to limit the spread of fire and smoke both in this facility and to neighboring buildings. The emergency services must also be safe so that people inside the building can be quickly rescued. Fire safety guidelines are also included in national regulations, i.e. in the Building Law. In the light of the law, already at the design stage of the building, the division into fire zones or the length of the escape route should be taken into account. The technical conditions define the requirements that are checked by the relevant services at the time of building acceptance. There is also a Fire Protection Act that specifies what needs to be done to protect yourself from fire or a natural disaster. On the other hand, the ordinance on fire protection of buildings contains instructions for maintaining fire safety and guidelines on where the places most at risk of fire are.

Employer Responsibilities

The above-mentioned regulations state that the employer is obliged to familiarize employees with fire regulations through training. In addition, it must ensure safety and the possibility of evacuation. The Labor Code also specifies that employees must be appointed to perform tasks in the event of a fire. Their number should be adjusted to the type and level of risk. Usually, however, it is specified that when working in shifts, there should be at least two people in a shift. However, if the building has several floors, it is a minimum of two employees per floor. The employer places the details of designated employees on a list to be posted at the medical point. The data must include the name and surname of such person, place of work and business number. In addition, there is a provision in the labor code that hazards should be properly identified. You also need to make a list of what to do in the event of a fire.

How to protect a building against fire?

In addition to meeting the technical and technological requirements mentioned above, the employer must provide accessories to protect the building in the event of a fire. It is obligatory to place fire extinguishers and fire-fighting devices such as smoke detectors, as well as their maintenance. Flammable materials should also be properly secured, because then we reduce the risk of fire. The basis is a good, legible way to mark the evacuation of people from the building. All employees should be familiar with fire regulations, primarily because they ensure their own safety.

What if property is lost?

An important aspect is also to protect the workplace against losses that could occur if employees did not know the fire regulations. They are already presented in the initial OHS training, but these are only the basics. Thanks to a specialized fire-fighting course, losses can be reduced to a minimum. In addition, extensive knowledge of the regulations allows for a quick and efficient evacuation, as well as maintaining peace in a crisis situation. However, it is the employer's responsibility to ensure the safety of its employees. He also has to cover any losses, even if he finds himself guilty of the entire incident.

Employee Responsibilities

The most obvious things an employee needs to know and be able to apply in practice are fire regulations. In the event of a fire, he is obliged to follow the instructions of the employer or the person assigned to perform the tasks. In order to prevent such events, employees should make special efforts to keep their workplace in order. Additionally, in the event of a fire, everyone must notify their employer of this and warn those who may be at risk.

Why is it necessary to know the fire protection regulations?

Fires have occurred more and more frequently in recent years. Usually they are caused by incorrect use of electrical devices, but also caused by arson. Also for this reason, the more fires there are, the more losses will be caused by them. To prevent this, refer to the fire regulations. If we do not follow them, it may even prevent access to the building by the fire brigade. Various devices can fail if they are not maintained. Ultimately, there is a risk of fire. As a result, the fire will spread much faster and it will be impossible to evacuate the facility. There is also a risk that some may not survive the event.

Fire training

Everyone needs in-depth knowledge of what to do in the event of a fire. Although we already learn the rules during the initial training in occupational health and safety, it is worth considering taking an additional course. During the fire training, not only are you reminded of legal issues, but you also learn about the appropriate fire and evacuation markings in accordance with the Polish Standard. Importantly, workers are usually instructed on how to evacuate. It is an interesting experience for the participants, because they familiarize themselves with the topic not only from the theoretical point of view, but also from the practical point of view.

If you are an employer and are looking for such training for your employees, we invite you to our ERGON Personnel Training Center. We provide education at the highest level thanks to qualified staff and modern equipment. It is worth adding that after the training, participants receive a certificate. Prices depend on the number of people taking the course - we have discounts for larger groups, and there is also a possibility of negotiation! contact us via the form or by phone, and we will provide you with the relevant information.