Fire safety is crucial within the food industry. This is particularly true within the food processing sector. As food is being processed and packaged, there are ample opportunities for fires to break out. In order to minimize a loss of property, inventory, and life, basic safety measures need to be enforced. Safe-T Fire Protection recommends a comprehensive fire safety response that includes risk assessments, preventative measures, educational measures, and clean-up procedures.

Risk Assessments

The first step toward ensuring fire safety at your food processing facility is acknowledging the risks that are involved. Business owners have to be able to accurately measure the risks imposed by their facility and the processes involved in order to create an all-encompassing fire safety response. 

Facilities within the food and beverage industry are likely to have a lot of production equipment with various electrical wires. Overheating or sparks caused by broken machine parts or high process temperatures. This can potentially lead to fire and dust explosions. Another high area of risk is storage. Food and beverage facilities need to have ample storage as a practical measure. Food and packaging in particular can be extremely flammable. Whenever there are large stocks of flammable materials, the risk of a fire is very real. Furthermore, your facility may have numerous enclosed spaces and exits that may be difficult to reach from all directions. During an actual fire, this can become extremely dangerous for employees.

A comprehensive risk assessment needs to be completed by a trained professional. A fire safety professional will be able to quickly identify risk elements that you most likely wouldn’t foresee. When livelihoods—as well as lives—are on the line, taking any kind of preventative measures and establishing a risk assessment is paramount.

Preventative Measures

Business owners within the food and beverage industry should take preventative steps in order to protect their food processing facility from a fire. Safe-T Fire Protection recommends creating a system of responsibility for your employees. There needs to be accountability within your facility in order to ensure active participation in fire safety programs. This can also help streamline the implementation of other fire safety measures. Having a clean, hazard-free workplace that can reduce the likelihood of workplace fires will greatly reduce the chance of a workplace fire.

Other Preventative Measures Include:

• Immediate clean-up of spills, oil, or any other combustible materials
• Serviced and properly maintained machinery
• Clear hallways and fire exits
• Fire sprinkler systems and extinguishers are clear
  

We Importance of an Emergency Plan

Safe-T Fire Protection recommends companies implement an emergency fire plan. Employees should also be trained on what to do in the case of a fire, as well as how to use firefighting equipment. This will allow them to respond quickly and safely, safeguarding your diners as well. By carrying out regular equipment maintenance, having clean areas, and following the proper protocol, your staff and restaurant will be prepared for any fire-related mishaps.

Why Partner with Safe-T? 

By following all of these proper safety measurements, businesses will be able to help prevent fires from even beginning. For more information on fire safety in the food and beverage industry, let Safe-T Fire Protection be of service. Safe-T Fire Protection is committed to providing the best restaurant fire protection services in North Georgia. With our focus on excellent customer service and dedication to fire safety, our trained professionals are ready to fire-proof your commercial restaurant or business. For more information on fire safety equipment, best fire safety practices, and inspections give us a call at (770) 995-9950.