Fire Check – there’s an app for that
Despite a slew of fire-related incidents making the headlines, fire safety often comes well down the list of priorities.
“We’ve met publicans who roll their eyes when the topic arises,” says Stephen Norman from My Ez Fire Check, an app that simplifies fire check procedures while keeping companies compliant with fire safety regulations, “They don’t realise that fire checks can actually be completed without much effort and time.
“There’s a certain fear around fire checks. We understand that, particularly when you consider the amount of paperwork required to keep the fire register updated. Add in time and manpower and the checks can be considered a drain on a pub’s resources,” he continues.
“Media reports show that many bars are struggling with fire safety obligations,” adds Padraig Muldoon, Stephen’s colleague, “My Ez Fire Check is a great solution”.
The paperless system saves time and money. All checks are conducted using a smartphone and once completed, logs are time-stamped and stored in the cloud. Records can be accessed instantly. The software generates reminders and sends alerts if checks are missed.
Lack of time and knowledge are two of the biggest issues.
“Bar managers are run off their feet with a seemingly endless amount of day-to-day tasks,” explains Stephen, “Often, fire checks are a problem for another day. However they needn’t ever be a problem. Our benefits include increased accountability and efficiency, risk reduction and elimination of paperwork. Not only can it help staff get about their day more productively, it also gives management the added reassurance that all items were checked at the correct time”.
So far, the reception to Fire Check has been extremely positive.
“Everyone we’ve spoken with has been really interested, especially once they’ve seen the app in action,” says Padraig, “We’re already working with well-known names in the bar and nightclub industry including the Charlie Chawke Group and parts of the Press Up Group. We’ve just updated our website (www.myezfirecheck.com) and the analytics show that there’s demand for the product across the board.”