Lewis Barbe: How to Prevent Fire Hazards

There are a number of ways in which a fire can be caused, but the results are often the same: destruction of property, potential harm to the patrons and employees at your business or facility, and a costly bill that covers one, if not both, of the aforementioned results. By being proactive and recognizing and minimizing these hazards, a manager is making a sound investment that will save lots of money and hassle if a fire were to take place. Below are some basic tips on how you can protect your establishment from fire hazards.

First, make sure to keep a clean workspace. Dispose of any waste or unused, discarded materials that can be flammable. One of the best examples here is paper. Many businesses require lots of paperwork, but properly storing that work is the difference between having an archive, or a fire hazard. By filing your paperwork in filing cabinets and discarding any excess or unwanted paper, you are already minimizing a fire hazard that has crippled many businesses.

Second, keep a close eye on the electrical and gas supplies of your workspace to make sure that they are in functional order. Keep an eye out for any overstuffed electrical outlets; and install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors that can help identify if any gas or smoke is being leaked into the air.

Lastly, have policies in place that minimize risk after a fire has started. Have fire extinguishers easily accessible, as well as a clearly displayed fire escape plan.

Find more tips and recommendations from Lewis Barbe at www.lewiscbarbe.com.

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Lewis Barbe: Importance of Having A Gas Explosion Expert

Lewis Barbe is recognized for his countless contributions, extensive experience and expertise demonstrated in regards to workplace and product safety. The American Society for Testing and Materials recently awarded him an esteemed leadership position within their organization. He is the Chair of ASTM Committee E34 on Occupational Health and Safety and is therefore intrusted with the various responsibilities that come along with being the primary charge of E34 Committee Chairman.

One area that is of great concern lately is gas explosions says Lewis Barbe. Recently the East Coast has seen a rash of them in recent months. Some of the explosions resulted in severe injuries and property damages. Gas leaks are pretty common, but they should be handled with caution even though the majority of them do not result in explosions. A gas leak smells like sulfur, some people describe it as a “rotten eggs” smell. New Jersey Natural Gas spokesman gives a few helpful hints in in the event that you detect a gas leak, “Do not light a candle, do not turn on the lights, do not turn on your cell phone, just make sure to get out of the premises immediately.” The best thing you can do is call 911 or contact the gas company to report the leak.

In the case of gas explosions, it's important to identify the cause of an explosion. The main reason is to determine liability so that victims of the explosion can be compensated fairly for the damages. A victim of an explosion might might suffer from long-term disability, trauma, and property damages and economic loss. Secondly it's important to try to identify the errors in the lines, improve safety, and prevent a future explosion. The existing safety regulations are in place usually due to a prior explosion or accident. The main goal of professional within the work safety industry is to update existing safety codes in the building or structure to prevent future fatalities and injuries.

People like Lewis Barbe provide gas explosion expert witnesses for litigation and consulting. Through his services, companies can improve workplace safety by assisting with accident investigation and safety codes and compliance.