The Most Common Causes of Fire and How to Avoid Them
Posted on 2nd October 2024
You may think your property is fire-safe, but when was the last time you checked for faulty leads or tested your smoke alarm? Explore the 12 most common causes of fires in the UK between 2022 and 2023, and learn preventive measures for fire accidents.
The number of primary fires with evacuation has decreased from 9,000 in 2010 to just over 4,000. Additionally, 2,500 people were rescued from primary fires, down from nearly 4,500 in 2010. As such, there were only 246 fatal fires, resulting in 259 fatalities and 6,155 casualties in 2023. But as a nation, we can—and need—to do more to protect our people.
The 12 Most Common Causes of Fire in the UK:
Since 2012, these remain as the most common causes of fire. In fact, they have been steadily increasing, with only chip and fat pan fires decreasing.
1. Candles
Candles, while accounting for nearly 5% of fires, can ignite nearby combustibles if left unattended or placed too close to flammable materials.
2. Careless Handling of Fire or Hot Substances
The careless handling of fire and hot substances are responsible for just over 10% of fires. Examples include mishandling flammable materials or spilling hot cooking oil
3. Cooking Appliances
Cooking appliances are the leading cause of fires, responsible for almost 45% of incidents. Common issues include unattended cooking, grease buildup and malfunctioning appliances.
4. Electrical Distribution
Faults in the electrical distribution system, such as overloaded circuits or damaged wiring, contribute to nearly 15% of fires and are linked to significant casualties and fatalities.
5. Faulty Appliances and Leads
Appliances and electrical leads in poor condition can short-circuit or overheat, causing about 15% of fires. This includes worn-out cords and malfunctioning devices.
6. Faulty Fuel Supplies
Problems with fuel supplies, such as leaks or contamination, account for nearly 10% of fires. This includes issues with gas lines or other flammable fuels.
7. Misuse of Equipment or Appliances
The incorrect use of equipment and appliances is the result of almost 30% of fires. This can include improper operation or neglect of safety instructions.
8. Other Accidental Causes
This category includes various less common accidental fire causes, making up about 15% of fires. These could include accidental ignition from dropped matches or other unforeseen mishaps.
9. Other Electrical Appliances
Fires caused by other electrical appliances, not including major distribution systems, make up 10% of incidents. This could include faulty toasters or heaters.
10. Placing Articles Too Close to Heat
Placing flammable materials too close to heat sources has caused 15% of fires. Examples include leaving papers or textiles near radiators or stoves.
11. Smokers’ Material
Smoking materials, such as cigarettes, are responsible for the highest fatality rate, at 35%. They can easily ignite combustible materials, leading to deadly fires.
12. Space Heating Appliances
Space heaters cause nearly 5% of fires and tend to have the lowest casualty rates. Issues can arise from improper use or placement near flammable objects.
Preventive Measures for Fire Accidents:
1. Make Sure Appliances and Equipment Are Used Correctly
Heating:
Heaters should be secured in place and fitted with fire guards when necessary. It is advisable to use convector or fan heaters instead of radiant heaters, as they generally present a lower fire risk. Keep heaters away from combustibles and obstructions, and avoid using portable fuel-burning heaters. Gas heating appliances should be serviced annually, and staff should be discouraged from bringing personal heaters or electrical equipment.
Equipment and Machinery:
Ensure all machinery is regularly cleaned and maintained. Additionally, avoid disabling or interfering with automatic safety features, and adhere to proper usage instructions and safety signs.
Cooking Processes:
Implement the use of fire-resistant containers for waste and install effective fire suppression systems, regular inspections, cleaning and the maintenance of equipment, along with the annual servicing of gas appliances. Maintain safe distances between cooking equipment and combustible materials, never leave the area while cooking, and ensure ducts and supports can handle high temperatures.
2. Upgrade Your Fire Compartmentation and Insulation
Fire Compartmentation:
Fire compartmentation involves using fire-resistant walls, floors, partitions and barriers to prevent the spread of fire within a building. These section a blaze into more manageable areas, providing additional time and clear escape routes, especially if escape paths are separated from the main premises.
Fire Insulation:
Fireproof insulation is designed to protect buildings by slowing the spread of flames and smoke. Our materials resist heat and do not release toxic smoke when exposed to fire. This insulation helps safeguard the building's structure and allows valuable time for evacuation.
3. Install Fire Barriers and Boarding
Fire Barriers:
Fire cavity barriers are essential fire protection components designed to close cavities in walls and ceilings, preventing the spread of fire and smoke. They are a mandatory safety feature for all UK buildings and should be regularly reviewed and updated, especially in older structures.
Fire Boarding:
Fire boarding uses fire-resistant boards to encase structural steel and protect it from heat. Fire-resistant boards are treated with non-toxic additives to ensure structural stability and moisture resistance.
4. Invest in Fire Doors and Signage
Fire doors are legally required in doorways leading to escape routes and high-risk areas. These specialised doors prevent the spread of fire and smoke, crucial for passive fire protection. They are constructed to withstand high temperatures for certain durations and are equipped with smoke seals to block smoke passage. Fire doors feature self-closing mechanisms and intumescent seals, and the hardware is also fire-rated.
5. Get Your Equipment Pat-Tested
All electrical equipment should be installed and maintained by a qualified professional. Portable equipment must be visually inspected and undergo portable appliance testing (PAT) as per UK guidance; regular inspections are also required.
You must consider the physical environment of the equipment and ensure proper use of personal protective equipment. Compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 are essential for safe electrical installations.
6. Check if Your Building Is Compliant
Some fire safety standards are law, whereas some are simply guidance. However, we recommend becoming familiar with any regulations that relate to your circumstances. Commercial and residential buildings have different laws, such as regular fire drills, annual risk assessments and prominent exit routes.
7. Create a Designated Smoking Area
When you see a "DO NOT SMOKE" sign in a building or workplace entrance, it is important to follow it. Designated smoking areas are positioned away from buildings to minimise fire risks and are typically equipped with ashtrays and bins for the safe disposal of cigarettes.
8. Provide Fire Safety Training and Assign a Fire Warden
Employees must undergo basic fire training upon starting a new job. In addition, as stipulated in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, it is a legal requirement to enlist one fire warden per floor for every 50 employees.
9. Clean Your Environment on the Daily
Leaving appliances, equipment and materials unattended poses a significant fire risk. It is your responsibility to return items to their proper places to ensure they are not near combustible materials. Additionally, regularly clean up debris, dust and dirt, as these can also ignite.
10. Ensure the Safe Storage of Materials and Equipment
Ensure all chemicals, flammable materials and hazardous substances are safely stored in a dry, well-ventilated area, such as a closet or pantry, away from other combustible items. This prevents the risk of expansion, mixing and potential ignition. Additionally, keep fire protection equipment, such as a fire extinguisher, near storage rooms for quick access.
Preventive Measures for Fire Accidents with GRJ Contracting
Fire safety is essential to protect lives and property, yet many overlook simple preventive actions. In 2023, the UK saw a decline in primary fires and casualties, but more efforts are needed. Common fire causes include cooking appliances, electrical faults and equipment misuse. Key preventive measures, such as regular maintenance, fire compartmentation and installing fire barriers and doors, can significantly reduce risks.
GRJ Contracting and our sister company, GRJ Surveying, offer expert fire prevention services, from surveying to installation and maintenance. Learn more about common causes of fire and preventive measures for fire accidents with us. Protect your property today and contact us to ensure your building is fully compliant and safe from fire hazards.
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