Coopers discusses the importance of fire safety signage in a commercial building.
While users may not notice fire safety signs immediately as they enter a building, they are an essential factor in every commercial building. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 legislation, it states that commercial properties must present several particular signs depending on the size of the property.
It’s important to have the correct knowledge of fire safety signage to ensure everyone in the building remains safe in the event of a fire. Coopers Fire explains the different types of fire safety signage and their meanings below.
Fire safety signage provides reassurance to evacuees in an emergency. A guided route supported by the use of signs can help assist those who may be unfamiliar with the building to escape as safely and efficiently as possible.
Fire assembly points
Establishing a fire assembly point is crucial so that there is a dedicated location for staff and visitors to come together in a designated safe area. The premise of a fire assembly point sign is to point out where the chosen area is so everyone is aware.
The location must be accessible for those with mobility issues and should be outside the building, away from any dangerous points or flammable materials.
Fire exit signs
Fire exit signs are required in larger buildings where the exit may not be obvious. This sign needs to refer to the nearest escape point, helping guide those who are not familiar with the building. The safety of visitors is just as important as the safety of building occupants.
Fire equipment signs
Fire equipment signs take a more detailed approach. For example, a fire extinguisher sign will require details of which class of fire they are designed to extinguish, and how to operate them in the event of a fire. A fire alarm sign is needed to notify where the alarm is located.
Other equipment signs, such as hoses and fire blankets, are only required if the building has said equipment on site. All signs must be located alongside the equipment itself to ensure that users have the relevant instructions on how to operate the equipment.
Fire action notices go hand-in-hand with fire alarm signs because they will alert all occupants of the fire procedure to follow after the alarm is activated.
Fire action notice
A fire action notice is arguably the most essential of all fire safety signs as it is a mandatory requirement in every commercial property. Fire action notices break down the actions needed to take in the event of a fire. Instructions usually include:
- Sound the closest fire alarm
- Alert the fire brigade
- Evacuate the premises
- Find the mutual assembly point outside
- Guidance on what not to do (Return to the building before instruction, gather personal belongings)
Media contact
Rebecca Morpeth Spayne,
Editor, International Fire Buyer
Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922
Email: [email protected]
