Name a common cause of workplace fires.

Overloaded electrical circuits are indeed a common cause of workplace fires. When too many devices are plugged into a single circuit, the wires can overheat due to excessive current flow. This overheating can lead to insulation breakdown, which can ignite nearby combustible materials and start a fire. Employers often overlook the limits of electrical circuits, leading to this dangerous situation. Awareness and proper management of electrical load are crucial for maintaining safety in the workspace.

While other options also contribute to fire hazards, overloaded electrical circuits are particularly prevalent due to the increased use of electrical devices in many modern workplaces. For example, although spilled chemicals can also pose fire risks, they typically require an ignition source to ignite, which may not be present at all times. Similarly, faulty machinery and improper storage of materials can lead to unsafe conditions but are less likely to directly result in a fire compared to the consistent risk posed by overloaded circuits.