Fire Prevention Measures for Warehouses

Warehouses can hold enormous quantities of combustible goods and packaging. A fire can grow quickly, especially in high racking, and destroy stock, buildings and livelihoods.

Why warehouse fires spread fast

• High fire load — goods, pallets, cardboard and plastic wrap
• Vertical spread — flames travel rapidly up racking
• Large open spaces — little to slow a fire’s growth
• Few occupants — fires may go unnoticed at night

Prevention measures

Housekeeping

• Remove waste packaging and pallets regularly
• Keep aisles clear
• Don’t store goods against walls or blocking equipment

Storage practices

• Keep clearance between the top of storage and sprinkler heads, as required by the system design
• Separate flammable liquids and gases into appropriate storage
• Store idle pallets outside or in designated areas
• Keep goods away from lights and heaters

Ignition control

• Inspect electrical installations regularly
• Control hot work with a permit system
• Manage forklift charging areas safely
• Enforce no-smoking rules
• Secure the site against arson

Protection systems

Depending on the warehouse, protection may include:

• Sprinklers designed for the storage height, arrangement and commodity
• Hydrants and fire pumps with adequate water storage
• Detection — beam or aspirating systems for large open spaces
• Portable extinguishers for first response
• Hose reels at suitable locations

Changes in storage

A sprinkler system designed for one type of storage may not protect a different commodity or higher racking. Review protection whenever storage changes.

Training and inspection

• Train staff in fire prevention and response
• Carry out regular inspections
• Maintain systems to the applicable requirements

Omega supports warehouse operators with assessment, protection systems and maintenance. Request a quote.