Most UK businesses choose security over fire protection

New research published by Spy Alarms has found that most businesses in the United Kingdom prioritise investment in security systems over fire safety measures.

According to the company, 59% of businesses reported spending on CCTV, intruder alerts and access control.

In contrast, only 39% reported investing in fire safety systems.

Spy Alarms stated that the average cost of a fire to a business is £78,000.

This figure does not include potential health impacts, emotional consequences or legal implications.

Financial concerns and lack of awareness drive low fire safety uptake

Spy Alarms reported three primary reasons for the gap in investment between security and fire safety: financial constraints, lack of awareness and limited internal processes.

The company said that many businesses deprioritise fire safety due to cost, despite the risk of severe consequences.

It also noted that new business owners may not be aware of legal responsibilities regarding fire protection.

A further issue is that some companies do not have processes in place for ongoing fire safety maintenance and training, making it difficult to implement or sustain protective systems.

Industrial, food and retail sectors face highest risk

Data shared by Spy Alarms and attributed to UK government sources outlined which business types are more likely to experience fires.

Industrial businesses were found to be most at risk, accounting for 24% of fire incidents.

Food and drink premises represented 19%, followed by retail at 17%.

Hotels and hospitals were recorded at 8% and 7% respectively.

Fire system specialist calls for better planning and perspective

Andrew Fowler, Fire System Specialist at Spy Alarms, said it is essential for businesses to have robust and properly maintained fire systems in place.

Fowler said: “As we’ve all become aware of in recent years, a well-thought-out fire plan, including sufficient and maintained systems, extinguishers and an evacuation plan supported by training, are absolute non-negotiables.”

He added: “While costs may be a concern, we offer site visits to determine the most suitable systems for our customers, from a set-up and budget perspective.

“It’s crucial to put expenses for these systems into perspective by comparing them to other operational costs and considering the potential losses and consequences of a fire incident.”

UK businesses prioritise security systems over fire safety measures, study finds: Summary

Spy Alarms has published research showing that 59% of UK businesses invest in security systems, while only 39% invest in fire safety.

The average financial cost of a fire incident is £78,000.

The company cited cost concerns, lack of awareness and weak internal processes as the main reasons for low uptake in fire safety.

Industrial, food and drink, and retail sectors were identified as the most at risk.

Government data cited by Spy Alarms showed that 24% of fires occur in industrial businesses, 19% in food and drink, and 17% in retail.

Andrew Fowler from Spy Alarms said fire plans and equipment are non-negotiable and must be maintained and supported by staff training.