Visual Common Standards

See what unsafe looks like vs. what compliant looks like

Keeping up with fire safety rules can be confusing — every building, system, and piece of equipment has its own requirements. That's why Fire Log Book includes Visual Common Standards (VCS): simple, side-by-side guides that show you exactly what to look for.

Each guide breaks down the essentials into clear visuals and easy bullet points, so you and your team can spot issues instantly. No long manuals, no guesswork.

Sample VCS Guides

Preview some of our Visual Common Standards. As a Fire Log Book member, you'll get access to the full library covering everything from electrical safety to fire doors, alarms to escape routes.

The Fire Triangle

The Fire Triangle - Non-Compliant

Non-Compliant

The Fire Triangle - Compliant

Compliant

Key Points:

  • Fire requires three elements to start: heat, fuel, and oxygen.
  • Heat provides the ignition source (spark, flame, hot surface).
  • Fuel in the form of a combustible material, liquid or gas.
  • Oxygen supports combustion (usually from the air around us).
  • All three elements must be present together in the right proportions.
  • Removing any one element will prevent or extinguish the fire.
  • For Example: A Fire blanket smothers the fire reducing oxygen.
  • For Example: Removing combustible waste removes fuel.
  • For Example: Switching off an electrical item can remove heat
  • Please note: Due to the introduction of new production methods and chemical processes the Fire Triangle has been superceeded by the Fire Tetrahedron.

Fire Exit

Fire Exit - Non-Compliant

Non-Compliant

Fire Exit - Compliant

Compliant

Key Points:

  • Fire exits must be kept clear at all times
  • Blocked exits can delay or prevent evacuation
  • Snow and ice must be cleared regularly.
  • If snow left in place freezes the doors will not open.
  • Check your exits after each weather warning or fresh snow fall.
  • Keep areas clear for Emergency Services
  • Have a store of salt grit available and grit regularly during incremental weather..

Fire Action Notice

Fire Action Notice - Non-Compliant

Non-Compliant

Fire Action Notice - Compliant

Compliant

Key Points:

  • Ensure you complete each Fire Action Notice.
  • Preferably with a printed label so it is legible.
  • Include Emergency Number and extension number if required.
  • Name or location of the muster or fire assembly point
  • Remember a fire may be discovered by someone who does not know the Fire Assembly location.
  • Ideally one action notice per call point.

Charging Devices

Charging Devices - Non-Compliant

Non-Compliant

Charging Devices - Compliant

Compliant

Key Points:

  • Charge rechargable equipment safely.
  • Charge on a non flammable surface where possible.
  • Only use the original charger that came with the device.
  • Connections may look the same but voltage and ampage may differ.
  • Avoid charging overnight or unattended.
  • Avoid charging in hot conditions.
  • Lithium Fires are very dificult to extinguish.
  • Charge items away from combustible or flammable materials.

The present you give your entire family.

The present you give your entire family. - Non-Compliant

Non-Compliant

The present you give your entire family. - Compliant

Compliant

Key Points:

  • Change your Smoke Alarm Battery.
  • You will never regret doing so!

Full VCS Library Categories

As a subscriber, you get access to our complete library of Visual Common Standards covering all these topics and more.

Charging Devices

CO Monitors/Detectors

CO2 Fire Extinguishers

Dry Powder Extinguishers

Electrical Safety

Emergency Lighting

Escape Corridors

Escape Ladders

EV Charging

Evacuation Chairs

Extension Reels

External Letterboxes

Extraction Fans

Family Fire Safety

Fire Action Notices

Fire Action Plans

Fire Alarms

Fire Assembly Points

Fire Blankets

Fire Doors

Fire Extinguishers

Fire Risk Assessments

Foam Extinguishers

Water Extinguishers

Wet Chemical Extinguishers

And many more...

Why VCS Works

Training made clearer, faster, and more effective

Visual Common Standards make compliance accessible to everyone. No long manuals, no technical jargon — just simple side-by-side comparisons that help you spot issues instantly.

  • Available Anytime

    Access guides in your account whenever you need them.

  • Consistent Across Sites

    Same standards applied everywhere, for every team member.

  • Perfect for Training

    Designed for staff, managers, and even families.

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200+

Visual Guides

Covering everything from arson prevention to everyday workplace safety

Your 24/7 Fire Safety Advisor

Saving Lives & Protecting Business

Get access to the full VCS library and simplify fire safety compliance across all your sites.