Posted: Monday 22 March 2021, 11:36
From 22 March 2021, Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service will be running a campaign to contact businesses across Derbyshire, who trade in hot works or are having hot works completed on their premises, to offer essential safety advice on keeping their business and employees safe from the risk of fire.
Hot works is the term given to work that involves, but is not limited to, soldering, welding cutting, grinding, and using hot air guns. This work can pose a serious fire safety risk, which is why businesses have a legal and moral duty to ensure their premises, and any works carried out, are safe.
During the campaign, our Business Safety Advisors and Firefighters will be working alongside local councils and network groups to complete site visits and deliver online presentations, where they’ll offer businesses free support and advice. They will cover topics such as whether the work is necessary or if there’s an alternative, identifying hazards, and how to raise the alarm if an accident was to occur.
Business Safety Advisor Andrew Mosler said: “It’s really important businesses understand the fire risks involved with hot works, and how to reduce them, as the implications can be devastating.
“If not carried out safely, hot works can result in a fire which can have financial implications due to the loss of business premises, customers turning to competitors, and increased insurance premiums. In the worst case scenario, a fire could result in serious injury or loss of life.
“Over the last year firefighters have attended 86 fires caused by hot works across Derbyshire, so we hope by providing free advice and support for businesses we can help reduce the number of incidents.”
For more information on keeping your business safe visit our website or follow us on social media @DFRSfiresafety.
Alternatively, you can contact your local Business Safety Advisor on:
Andrew Mosler - East Area Office 01246 223 500
[North East Derbyshire, Chesterfield, Bolsover and Amber Valley]
Leigh Smith - South Area Office 01332 777 850
[Derby City, South Derbyshire and Erewash]
Sarah Hodgkinson - West Area Office 01298 608 720
[High Peak and Derbyshire Dales]