Workplace emergencies and disasters can strike anyone, anytime and anywhere. Fires are particularly common, with a structural fire occurring somewhere in the U.S. every two minutes. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2010, 187 workers died from fire or explosion — the highest count in seven years.
These statistics serve as a reminder that fire is a real possibility for any employer. Chemicals, production processes, manufactured goods, waste and packaging can all create fire hazards. Recent studies indicate that up to 85 percent of workplace fires are due to human error and behavior. Developing a fire prevention plan is the best defense.