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Modern creative office in Essex during summer with staff at desks—highlighting the importance of fire safety compliance for small businesses.
As warmer months arrive, ensuring your workspace stays safe is essential. This Fire Safety Checklist for Essex offices helps London, Essex, Thurrock and basildon businesses stay compliant, prevent fire risks and protect staff.

1. Review Fire Risk Assessments & Evacuation Plans

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, every business must have an up‑to‑date Fire Risk Assessment and evacuation plan. Check yours is current, clearly displayed, and employees – especially any new hires – have been briefed.

2. Inspect Fire Doors & Compartmentation

Fire doors should close fully and seal tightly. Gaps or misalignment can undermine fire protection. Essex County Fire & Rescue reports fires escalate quickly without proper compartmentation :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.

3. Check Alarm Systems, Emergency Lighting & Signage

  1. Test alarm panels weekly and log results.
  2. Ensure emergency lights function and guidance signs are lit.
  3. Replace any faulty bulbs or batteries immediately.

4. Refresh Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)

Office equipment such as kettles, PCs and lamps need annual PAT testing – vital as ~25% of electrical incidents are due to portable devices :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. Label appliances clearly and record in a compliance folder.

5. Service Extinguishers & Fire-Fighting Equipment

Ensure fire extinguishers (CO₂ for server rooms, water for paper zones) are serviced to BS 5306, with up‑to‑date tags. Weekly inspections by your Fire Marshal are required.

6. Maintain Clear Escape Routes

Keep corridors, stairwells and exit routes free from obstructions—this includes promotional displays or summer event gear. Essex Fire & Rescue emphasises that blocked “red routes” delay fire teams :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

7. Manage Summer Risks: BBQs, Kettles & Charging Bays

Outdoor events? Designate a safe exclusion zone for BBQs. Indoors, check charging bays for e‑bikes, scooters or devices. Visual inspections of battery tools can prevent overheating hazards.

8. Drill Staff & Log Results

Summer brings flexible working – so test shifts, remote workers and evening staff with practical evacuation drills. Keep dated records in your fire safety log book.

Conclusion

Use this Fire Safety Checklist for Essex offices to review, test and document your safety measures. From PAT testing to clear exits, each step strengthens compliance and provides peace of mind.

Book a fire risk assessment or schedule PAT testing with Total Safe UK. Book a free compliance check today in Essex.