Abstract

This research ascertains the state of fire safety measures in industrial buildings in the Tema metropolis of Ghana. In all 12 industries were sampled. The study looked at the design and construction and the type of installations found in these structures and compared it with approved standards. From observations, interviews and questionnaires, the study found out that half of the industrial buildings surveyed with respect to fire safety were below the approved standard set out in BS 5588-1997 for industrial buildings. The major causes of fires in these buildings were electrical and naked flame coming into contact with combustible materials, accumulation of potential combustible fuels, over heating items and haphazard way of handling volatile substances. The study also found that the Ghana National Service does it best in fighting fire outbreaks but is limited in resources and certain impeding factors. The study therefore recommends that designers and contractors communicate with the National Fire Service Department at the design and construction stages of industrial buildings to ensure the incorporation of maximum safety features. Fire safety seminars and drill must also be conducted for occupant and staffs.