Protecting your business and its assets from fire based perils is paramount, especially when dealing with hazardous materials. Adequate risk assessments and comprehensive prevention measures are crucial to ensure your insurance coverage provides the necessary protection in the event of a fire. This article delves into the essential safety requirements and prevention measures for businesses handling, storing, or using hazardous materials.

 

Hazardous Substances

The following is required to help manage the risk of fire:

• Manufacturer’s specifications and any applicable legislation and other relevant standards must be adhered to.
• An inspection of the premises and a certificate of compliance/registration must be acquired from the fire brigade when the maximum storage capacity is exceeded as per requirement by municipal by-laws. This certificate of compliance/registration must be renewed annually. 
• A new certificate must be obtained
• if any changes are made to the type of substance being stored 
• if the quantity increases.
• if the business has been moved to a new location.  
• All machine parts, metal structures, pipelines conveying flammable articles and pneumatic conveyor ducts must be earthed, all the necessary measures must be taken if there is a possible formation of static electricity to prevent any electric sparks from occurring.
• An electrical Certificate of Compliance (CoC) must be issued by a registered person, following the necessary inspections and tests to ensure that the electrical installation is of a safe standard. 

 

Flammable liquids

The following is required:

• All containers are clearly labelled, and safety containers are always used, with them being kept closed when not in use.
• Stored in a separate area, away from other dangerous substances that could compromise the integrity of their containers.
• The quantities used in the working area should be limited to what is required for one day’s use or one shift.
• Only use or dispense liquids in well-ventilated areas, with no ignition sources present.
• Dispense liquids over a tray, and non-flammable absorbent materials should be kept readily available for mopping up any spills.

 

Flammable or non-flammable gas

The following is required:

• Stored in a clearly identified, dry, well-ventilated area, away from doorways, aisles, elevators, and stairs.
• Kept away from heat sources and potential fire hazards.
• Stored in the upright position on a fireproof surface and secured with an insulated chain or non-conductive belt.
• All protective caps must be secured to the cylinders.
• Oxygen and fuel gases cylinders should be stored separately.
• Stored away from full ones and clearly marked.
• Appropriate ‘no-smoking’ and ‘no exposed flames’ signage must be installed in cylinder storage areas.
• Light fittings and electrical switches in store rooms containing flammable gas must be made flameproof.

 

Vital Stock Storage Practices: 

• Stock storage must not affect the accessibility of firefighting equipment in an emergency.
• Aisles in your stock storage area must not be congested. 
• Stock must be stored at least 1m away from any light fittings. 
• Combustible stock must always be at least 1m away from any heat and ignition sources.

 

Prevention Measures

 

Fire extinguishing equipment must:

• meet the requirements set by municipal by-laws, national building codes, and any other relevant standards and legislation. 
• be situated in an obstruction-free area and must be adequately marked and mounted to a wall.
• be inspected by a qualified and registered person at least once every 12 months.
• be inspected, serviced and maintained according to OEM requirements.

 

Dust and fume extraction systems:

• Regularly maintained and cleaning must be done according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Installed in compliance with the relevant national building regulations, municipal by-laws, and any applicable standards or legislation. 
• The system must be intrinsically safe, properly grounded, and its electrical installation should be certified by a qualified professional.
• Cleaned using industrial vacuum cleaners,  instead of blowing dust away with compressed air.
• Smoking, flame-emitting tools, the use of heating devices, or any spark-producing equipment must be strictly prohibited in areas where dust or fumes are present.
• Any equipment or tools required for operations or maintenance must be intrinsically safe and purpose-built for those functions.

 

Fire alarms:

• Integrated with an internal security system or directly connected to the fire department to help in controlling the extent of damage during a fire. 

• Regularly maintained and tested to ensure they remain fully operational. 
• Comply with local fire safety codes and installation standards. Incorporating both audible and visual alerts, especially in areas with high noise levels or where visual cues are necessary. 
• Should have clear response protocols that are in place to guide staff or occupants on what actions to take when an alarm is triggered, ensuring a swift and effective response.

 

Sprinkler systems

• The Automatic Sprinkler Inspection Bureau (ASIB) must conduct regular inspections and issue a certificate of compliance. Business owners should schedule inspections at least twice a year to ensure ongoing compliance and system functionality.
• The certificate of compliance, based on the ASIB service agreement, is valid for six months. Businesses should maintain a copy of the certificate and ensure timely renewal to avoid legal and safety risks.
• Municipal by-laws and national building regulations may mandate sprinkler systems to mitigate fire damage. Business owners should consult local authorities to determine specific requirements for their property and ensure compliance.
• Even when not legally required, regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to prevent water damage caused by sprinkler system malfunctions. Businesses should develop a comprehensive maintenance plan, including regular testing, cleaning, and repairs, to optimise system performance and minimise risks.

 

Smoking

Designated smoking areas must be set up outside, free of any combustible substances, with a portable fire extinguisher located nearby. 

Additionally, businesses should implement clear policies regarding smoking, including prohibiting smoking in areas with flammable materials or sensitive equipment. 

 

In Closing

By taking proactive steps to prevent fires, you can protect your assets, minimise disruptions, ensure your insurance coverage remains in place and find peace of mind knowing that your property is safe.By referring to a trustworthy risk management specialist and financial advisor business owners can safeguard their assets and ensure long-term sustainability.  

 

Ensure your business’s success with comprehensive insurance coverage and risk mitigation solutions by visiting www.wyngaardtbrokers.com to book a consultation with a short-term insurance and risk management specialist. 

Let us worry about the risk, while you focus on what matters to you.

Wyngaardt Brokers (Pty) Ltd is an Authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP 53138).