As the festive season approaches, many industrial sites are preparing to enter a period of reduced activity or complete shutdown. While it’s tempting to relax once production stops, this is a critical time to ensure your site remains safe and secure. At JKE Fire & Security, we often see preventable incidents occur during extended closures. Here’s a checklist to help you protect your facility over the Christmas period.
Security Checks: for protecting your site when closed
Empty industrial sites are vulnerable to theft, vandalism, and unauthorised access. Here are some key areas to focus on BEFORE your Christmas shutdown:
1. Access Control Systems
- Ensure all doors, gates, and entry points are secured.
- Update access permissions to remove temporary staff or contractors who won’t be on-site.
- Test electronic locks, alarms, and keycard systems to confirm functionality.
2. CCTV and Monitoring
- Verify all cameras are operational and cover critical areas such as entrances, storage zones, and parking areas.
- Ensure recorded footage is being properly stored and monitored remotely if possible.
- Consider temporary remote monitoring during the shutdown for added security.
3. Physical Security Measures
- Check perimeter fencing, barriers, and gates for damage.
- Secure high-value equipment, tools, and materials in lockable areas.
- Ensure signage warns of restricted access and active surveillance.
- Make sure your security lighting is working and there’s no broken bulbs.
4. Intruder Alarms
- Make sure all back up power is working (batteries if used) in case of a power cut.
- Set up a schedule for people who will be called in the event of the alarm being set off (and make sure contact numbers are up to date).
- Ensure the sensors are all working properly for your alarm.
It’s essential to complete all of your security checks between now and the start of your Christmas shutdown so that you have time to rectify any issues; don’t leave things broken or not working during the time when your team aren’t on site because the worse can and does happen during the festive period.
Fire Safety: preventing fires during the Christmas shutdown
A site without staff is at higher risk for undetected fire hazards. Key fire safety checks include:
1. Fire Alarm & Detection Systems
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Test fire alarms, smoke detectors, and heat sensors to confirm they are operational.
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Ensure backup power supplies, like batteries or generators, are functioning.
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Verify that all fire detection systems are being monitored remotely, if possible.
2. Flammable Materials & Storage
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Store flammable liquids and chemicals safely, following regulatory guidelines.
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Remove any unnecessary combustible materials from production areas.
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Ensure proper signage and containment measures are in place.
3. Firefighting Equipment
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Inspect extinguishers, hose reels, and sprinkler systems to confirm readiness.
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Check that fire doors are closed and unobstructed.
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Make sure emergency exits remain accessible and well-lit.
4. Housekeeping & Electrical Safety
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Turn off non-essential electrical equipment and machinery.
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Clear rubbish, packaging materials, and debris from production and storage areas.
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Inspect wiring and electrical outlets for potential hazards.
Other top tips include:
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Emergency Contacts: Update the list of staff, contractors, and emergency services to reflect the holiday period.
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Communication Plan: Ensure that key personnel can be contacted quickly in the event of an incident.
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Documentation: Keep records of all checks and maintenance performed before leaving for the shutdown.
A little preparation before the Christmas shutdown can save significant stress, financial loss, and even lives. At JKE Fire & Security, we recommend a structured approach that covers both security and fire safety to ensure your industrial site stays protected while empty.
Remember that prevention is far easier than dealing with an emergency in an unattended facility especially during what is usually important family time for employees.