Complying with federal and state fire safety codes and regulations may seem like a complex burden for a small business. But preparing for the worst-case scenario is the best protection for your staff, property and assets. A safety plan for your business should cover these areas:

1. Installing and servicing safety and health equipment in your office or physical plant.
2. An established chain of command and procedures to be followed in an emergency, including an evacuation plan.
3. Designation of a person or committee to oversee the safety plan and establishment of procedures.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Know what state and local codes apply to your business

Fire codes vary among states and municipalities; it's important to know the regulations for your area.

I recommend: Contact your local fire marshal to get specific advice for your business. In addition, The National Fire Protection Association offers handbooks and other publications on codes and standards.

Prepare for fire inspection

Before opening your business, your municipality's fire and building departments may inspect such areas as exit egress and emergency lighting, fire extinguisher placement and fire alarms. Fire inspections may be done several times a year.

I recommend: Get tips on how to prepare at this Environment, Health & Safety Online Fire Inspection page.

Ensure your workplace has current safety equipment

This may be as simple as regularly checking the batteries in fire alarms or as elaborate as servicing plant shut-down procedures.

I recommend: The NFPA has numerous publications addressing such areas as fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems, hazardous materials and electrical safety. Order online at the NFPA catalog.

Develop an emergency procedure and evacuation plan

Designate one or more persons to oversee the plan and develop procedures. Make sure all employees are aware of the plan.

I recommend: The Small Business section of the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration site has resources for developing a small business safety and health plan.

Assess specific risks associated with your business

Are combustible materials, papers, scraps and debris properly stored? Are workplace tools or vehicles in good working condition? Are electrical appliances grounded and has any electrical work been done by a licensed contractor?

I recommend: Get free software through Environmental Health Safety that provides information on issues related to assessing and managing safety risks. The U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration has a checklist that can be used to target specific conditions in your workplace.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure your office or plant has up-to-date fire alarms, a working sprinkler system and/or fire extinguishers and a first-aid kit and other safety equipment on site.
• •  Check exits to ensure they are functioning properly to allow rapid exit.
• •  Make sure personal protection equipment is on site and properly used.
• •  Stage a fire drill to make sure the staff knows what to do in the case of an emergency.
• •  Be prepared for regular fire inspection visits by knowing local fire and safety codes.