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Arson

Arson is deliberately starting a fire to destroy property.

It is the single main cause of insured loss due to fire in most industrial countries throughout the world. Worldwide cost varies between 15% and 50% of all insured losses due to fire depending on the country. For some higher risk occupancies like schools and unoccupied buildings the cost is as high as 70%.

What do we look for?

Negative	Positive
Location: Areas where people congregate (eg. schools, public transport, sporting facilities) and high crime areas. Sites that provide easy concealment for malicious activities.	Effective fire protection and security systems.
Prevalence of fuel available outside buildings to start fires (eg. waste, packaging, timber pallets, rubbish in open skips).	Good housekeeping and site assessment systems to limit fuel inside and outside buildings.
Poor management/employee relations (strikes, political situation etc).	Good managerial controls including a vigilant workforce that is aware of common arson hazards and reports any unusual incidents.

Risk improvement ideas

Train employees to be aware of common arson hazards and to respond appropriately.
Zurich's Virtual Fire Safety Manager (VFSM) provides suitable online training. Visit the VFSM feature tour and demo at www.vfsm.com.

Useful Resources:

Arson Prevention Bureau (UK) provides some excellent guidance and practical steps to reduce arson risk. Tailored advice available for high risk interests groups like retail shops, school and community groups, commercial and industrial premises. Visit www.arsonpreventionbureau.org.uk.
Refer to the 'Site Security' Risk Factor for specific ideas to reduce your arson risk through improved site security.

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