Fire protection: what to consider with electrical appliances?

Electrical appliances play a major role in fire protection, because many fires in offices and kitchens start at an appliance or a cable. Appliances that generate heat are particularly dangerous: coffee machines, toasters, microwaves and mini ovens. Here you can read which rules apply and how to prevent fires.

Which rules apply to electrical appliances (Germany)?

• German Ordinance on Industrial Safety and Health (Betriebssicherheitsverordnung): the employer must assess the hazards posed by appliances.
• German DGUV Regulation 3: electrical appliances are inspected regularly by a qualified electrician.
• German Workplace Ordinance (Arbeitsstättenverordnung): it requires protection against fire at the workplace.
• German DGUV Rule 115-401: it recommends a non-combustible base under heat-generating appliances in offices.

You can find more on the German accident insurance regulations at the DGUV.

How to use appliances safely

1. Place heat-generating appliances on a fireproof mat such as the FireMat.
2. Check cables and plugs regularly for damage.
3. Remove faulty appliances immediately.
4. Switch appliances off at the end of the working day.
5. Keep paper and cardboard away.
6. Do not plug power strips into one another.

Typical causes of fire

• damaged cables and plugs
• overloaded power strips
• dust in the ventilation slots
• appliances running unattended
• cheap chargers without a test mark

Especially important: batteries and chargers

Batteries in phones, laptops or e-bikes are also electrical consumers with a fire risk. So do not charge them on the sofa or in bed. Place them on a fireproof mat instead and use the right charger. Read more in the article Charging your phone on a fireproof mat.

What to do if there is a fire?

Pull the plug if it is safe to do so. Small fires on electrical appliances can be put out with a powder or CO₂ extinguisher. Water, on the other hand, is dangerous while current is flowing. If in doubt, call the fire brigade (112 in Germany and across the EU).

The right mat

The FireMat Black Edition is made of aramid fibres and does not continue to burn. In addition: certified by TÜV SÜD according to DIN EN ISO 11925-2. You can find all editions under Fire protection mats for electrical appliances. The article Non-conductive fireproof mat also explains why the FireMat does not conduct electricity.