• Fire is a danger in the workplace.fire image by Fotocie from Fotolia.com
  
  Every workplace should have in place a set of fire regulations to keep employees safe in case of emergency. While policy will vary between companies, there are many fire regulations that are mandated by both local fire departments and private insurance companies. Some of these regulations involve fire prevention equipment, escape routes and building code requirements.
  
  

Fire Prevention Equipment

• To meet both building codes and insurance requirements, certain types of fire prevention equipment must be installed in the workplace. A fire alarm system must be wired throughout the building. Sprinkler systems are also required in commercial buildings. Another regulation requires fire extinguishers, fire hoses, and in some instances axes in easy-to-access glass cases, placed at strategic points throughout the building to be used in case of a fire emergency. This equipment can help control the situation so that employees can get out of the building safely.
  
  

Escape Routes

• Workplaces are required to have planned escape routes for employees in case of fire or other emergencies. These escape routes must be documented and this documentation made available to employees. This information should also be clearly posted throughout the building. Each department should have a leader who will ensure that all employees are led to the evacuation route and are accounted for at a designated meeting place outside of the building during emergencies and emergency drills.
  
  

Building Codes

• Several fire prevention regulations are built into local building codes. These codes are requirements that buildings must adhere to in order to receive an occupancy license from local government. Building code fire safety regulations require that a building's electrical system must be functional and properly insulated. The building must also be checked periodically for gas leaks and must not contain dangerous building materials such as asbestos or dangerous chemicals which can cause employee health risks if burned or otherwise inhaled.