Restaurant Fire Exit Safety Tips

Restaurant Fire Exit Safety Tips

Restaurant Fire Exit Safety Tips

Restaurants are one of the top locations for accidental fires to break out. With kitchens bustling, mistakes are bound to happen, and a small fire can quickly turn big if the proper fire safety measures are not put into place. It is vital that everyone in the building is aware of how to prevent a fire and how to protect themselves during a fire.

A part of protecting employees and guests is ensuring your restaurant has the necessary fire safety and fire exit signs in place. That means placing the fire extinguisher symbol signs in the proper places to have your emergency exit signs easily visible from all areas of the restaurant. Fire signage plays an important role in getting guests out of the restaurant quickly and being able to put fires before they become overly problematic.

Restaurant Fire Signage Requirements

The International Building Code (IBC), International Fire Code (IFC) and National Fire Protection Association put numerous safety codes in place regarding fire safety signage. Some of the most popular fire signage requirements beyond the EXIT sign include:

Waterproof Exit Signs

If your fire exit signage will be hit with any type of liquid, you need to ensure you are using a wet location exit sign. This will ultimately leave out most electrical options. Consider photoluminescent fire safety signs for all areas that require wet location exit signs. These signs require no electricity and absorb the energy around them and emit it when needed.

PRO TIP: Make sure you choose a UL924 photoluminescent wet location exit sign.

Fire Extinguisher Symbol Signs

It is a requirement to have your fire extinguishers clearly marked. Fire extinguisher symbol signs offer a universal way for all languages to understand where the fire extinguisher is. Make sure you have the sign posted at minimum directly above the actual equipment. In many states and cities directional signage to the fire extinguisher will also be required. 

Safe Condition Signage

In case of a fire, it is important to not only have exit signs but advise building occupants of a way to safety. Safe condition signs can show escape routes, meeting points in case of fire, and information on where to find first aid equipment. It is important that all employees are trained and aware of your safe condition signage and that is visible to guests to help them navigate how to leave the building in case of a fire.

OSHA and Employee Fire Safety at Your Restaurant

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) oversees fire safety to ensure your restaurant workers are safe and protected in case of a fire. It is important to follow their guidelines and install the proper fire prevention and fire escape/fighting signs to ensure you are operating a safe environment for staff. 

 

While cooking is generally safe, a grease fire can still happen and get out of control quickly. While the best method is prevention, we know that accidents can happen. Make sure your staff is properly trained on how to put out a kitchen grease fire if it happens. As a last resort, make sure you have a fire extinguisher nearby and easy to locate with a fire extinguisher symbol sign. While it will contaminate the kitchen if you need to spray it, it is a much better option than your fire getting out of control.

 

OSHA comes in to conduct inspections on a regular basis to make sure your restaurant is compliant with their fire safety regulations. If your restaurant is not compliant with OSHA regulations, then expect to be hit with fines. Multiple penalties can mean hefty amounts of money, so it is not something to be disregarded.

 

Want Additional Information?

If you are looking to update your restaurant fire safety products or in the process of building a new restaurant reach out to the experts at Jessup Manufacturing to discuss your options. We can help guide you through your options and understand the requirements set forth by OSHA, IFC, IBC and the National Fire Protection Association.

2020-09-04 03:09:00
Did you like this post?
0
Comments
Featured Products

At Jessup Manufacturing Company, we take pride in our commitment to American craftsmanship. Every product we create is proudly made in the U.S.A., using the finest materials and skilled labor. By manufacturing domestically, we support our local economy and ensure the highest quality standards. When you choose Jessup Manufacturing Company, you can trust that you are supporting American jobs and receiving a product that is made to last. Join us in celebrating the spirit of American manufacturing and choose Jessup for all of your safety and griptape needs.