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Yard Storage
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Yard storage presents a significant fire hazard to property through accidental ignition or as readily available fuel source for arsonists. Fires involving combustible goods in close proximity to buildings can spread to buildings and cause severe damage.
Examples of yard storage include wooden or plastic pallets, skids or crates, palletized or crated stock, rubbish in open bins, waste paper or packaging and goods stored under canopies. |
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What do we look for?
| Negative |
Positive |
| Poor yard housekeeping with combustible storage located around buildings. Infrequent removal of waste allowing excessive build-up in yard areas. |
No yard storage/exposure. |
| External storage obstructing external fire appliances causing delays in fire fighting. |
Yard storage well controlled in designated areas at least 10 metres clear of buildings. Regular removal of waste and excess pallets to limit combustible storage. |
| Limited site security, isolated locations or high crime areas with yard storage presenting an increased exposure to vandalism/arson incidents. |
Canopies containing sprinkler systems
Good yard security (e.g. fencing, locked gates, security lighting, patrols, CCTV). |
Risk improvement ideas
- Where possible yards around buildings should be kept free of combustible storage at all times.
- Establish designated external storage areas for combustibles with good clearance from buildings. At least 10 metres is recommended for minor yard storage and at least 20 metres for highly combustible goods such as plastics and rubber tyres.
- Securely lock waste bins after hours or relocate at least 10 metres away from external walls as bins are a common source of fire by vandals. Alternatively, relocate bins inside the building after hours.
- Maintain yard storage housekeeping standards by including as part of a formal Self Inspection Program.
Useful Resources:
- Refer to Risk Factors 'Housekeeping' and 'Arson'.
- Train employees to be aware of common arson hazards and to respond appropriately. Zurich's Virtual Fire Safety Manager (VFSM) provides suitable on-line training. Visit the VFSM Feature Tour and Demo at www.vfsm.com
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Contact us for further assistance.
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