Top Workplace Safety Tips for Employers This Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night is a much-loved tradition in the UK, but it also brings safety challenges for employers. Whether your business is hosting an event or simply situated near public celebrations, guaranteeing the safety of employees, visitors, and property is vital.

From managing flammable materials to being prepared for common injuries, here are some essential workplace safety tips for employers this Bonfire Night.

Securing Flammable Liquids

One of the most crucial aspects of workplace safety on Bonfire Night is the proper storage and handling of flammable liquids. Under the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR), employers are legally required to assess and control the risks associated with dangerous substances in the workplace. On a night when fireworks and bonfires are everywhere, ensuring that flammable materials are securely stored away from potential ignition sources is essential.

Conducting a thorough DSEAR assessment can identify and lower risks, keeping both your workplace and nearby celebrations safe from accidental fires. If you haven’t undertaken a DSEAR assessment recently, now is the perfect time to review your processes to ensure compliance and safety.

Preventing Accidental Fires

Even if your business is not hosting a Bonfire Night event, accidental fires are a heightened risk. Fireworks landing in the wrong place, embers from nearby bonfires, or even a build-up of dry leaves around your property can all contribute to fire hazards.

Regularly clearing your premises of any potential flammable substances or items, such as dry debris or rubbish, and ensuring that all electrical equipment is turned off at the end of the workday are simple but effective preventive measures. Additionally, make sure your fire extinguishers are serviced and easy to access. This could make all the difference in preventing a small fire from becoming a large one.

Keeping Emergency Exits Clear

Emergency exits must remain clear, particularly during busy or high-risk events like Bonfire Night. Proper health and safety signage is crucial in ensuring that employees and visitors know evacuation routes and fire exits. Keep all exit routes are free from obstructions, such as storage items or decorations, and that your signage is clear, visible, and compliant with regulations.

Common Bonfire Night Injuries and How to Prevent Them

Bonfire Night can lead to several common injuries, most of which can be easily prevented with the right precautions:

• Eye injuries: Flying sparks and debris from fireworks can harm the eyes. Providing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as safety goggles, is essential for employees working outdoors or near bonfire-related activities. Make sure your team are aware of Face Fit Testing.
• Burns: Fireworks and bonfires increase the risk of burns. Ensure your team is trained in first aid, so they know how to respond quickly to burn-related injuries. Stallard Kane offers on-site first aid training to prepare your employees to handle these situations confidently.
• Sprains and fractures: Wet or uneven surfaces around the workplace can lead to slips, trips, and falls. Conduct a thorough event risk assessment to identify and eliminate potential hazards around your premises.

Be First Aid Ready

Having trained first-aiders on-site can make a significant difference in the event of an injury. Investing in first aid training for your staff ensures they can handle common injuries like burns, cuts, and eye trauma. It’s essential that your first aid kits are fully stocked and easily accessible, particularly during busy events.

Stallard Kane is here to help.

Bonfire Night brings its share of fun and excitement but poses potential hazards for workplaces. By being prepared, you can protect your employees, visitors, and business from harm while still enjoying a safe and successful Bonfire Night.

Stallard Kane offers a fully integrated solution to support businesses in Health and safety, HR and employment Law, Risk Solutions, and Training. Our departments work seamlessly together to provide a one-stop shop for all your compliance and risk management needs.

Contact us today to discuss your business and how we can support you and your team.

Health and Safety
healthandsafety@skaltd.co.uk
01427 420 402

HR & Employment Law
hr@skaltd.co.uk
01427 420 403

Training
training@skaltd.co.uk
01427 420 405

Risk Solutions
risksolutions@skaltd.co.uk
01427 420 404