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[OFFICIAL]
Fire Safety Book. SCC. Nick Hickman 2015
FIRE
SAFETY
BOOK
(Fire Evacuation Routine & Record)
File Ref: ***********
Date of Issue: Feb 2015
Issue No: 1
Review Date: Feb 2017
[OFFICIAL]
Fire Safety Book. SCC. Nick Hickman 2015
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[OFFICIAL]
Fire Safety Book. SCC. Nick Hickman 2015
FIRE
SAFETY
BOOK
(Fire Evacuation Routine & Record)
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Fire Safety Book. SCC. Nick Hickman 2015
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Fire Safety Book. SCC. Nick Hickman 2015
Contents
Building information
1. Introduction
2. Evacuation Plan / Site specific evacuation policy and procedures
3. Fire/sprinkler Panel Zone Plan/List & Fire Action sign
4. Fire Risk Assessment
Testing and records of training
5. Fire alarm tests (staff weekly and contractors)
6. Record of extinguisher testing
7. Record of fire Drills and Evacuations
8. Emergency lights tests (staff monthly and contractors)
9. Staff training records & Record of fire occurrences
Training & Peeps
10. Guide to carrying out a supervised evacuation drill Guide to the monthly testing of Emergency light systems Guide to the weekly testing of the fire alarm system
11. Fire extinguisher guides & Fire fighting equipment check list
12. Fire Warden / Duty Manager Instructions / List of responsible persons
Procedures and guidance
13. Safety Procedure for Contractors / SCC Fire Safety Procedure Health & Safety Induction
14. Personal & Visitors Emergency Evacuation Plans
15. Break Glass & Fire Extinguisher Location logs
16. Supplementary Information : Evacuation chair guidance & training log
Guide and instructions to Portable Appliance Testing
Hot works
Special needs fire safety posters
Surrey Fire & Rescue Call Challenging Policy
Property defect reporting
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FIRE SAFETY BOOK (Fire Evacuation Routine & Record)
1. INTRODUCTION (1) The attached Fire Safety Book is provided for use in Surrey County Council owned and
occupied premises.
(2) The Book has been designed to assist Heads of Establishments in the organisation and control of fire safety and evacuation arrangements within premises under their jurisdiction.
(3) Many serious fires have occurred involving tragic loss of life, injury and substantial damage through failure to exercise and maintain adequate control over general fire precautions and evacuation routines.
(4) The book has therefore been arranged to include the basic fire procedures and precautions which it is considered essential to test, record and be aware of, so that overall fire safety arrangements within all Establishments can be maintained at the highest possible level.
(5) Records may be required for claims/legal verification/investigation or by the enforcing Fire Authority. Information must therefore be kept up to date and retrievable.
2. COMPLETION OF INFORMATION (1) Some premises may not include all the equipment mentioned in the book (eg emergency
lighting in small schools and offices) in which case the particular section will not apply and N/A should be entered in the relevant record.
(2) It is recommended that relevant paper records be kept in a fire proof container when the
building is unoccupied and should be removed from the premises along with class registers and visitors' registers in the event of an evacuation of the building. Computer records should be backed up to ensure that they are retrievable if computers are damaged.
(6) Method and responsibility for recording and updating the specified information should be
clearly laid down by the Head of the establishment concerned.
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Fire evacuation plan This plan must be filled in to ensure that essential information is understood and recorded People with disabilities Staff, pupils and visitors with disabilities that affect their ability to evacuate the building in the event of a fire or the fire alarm sounding must have a suitable evacuation plan (section ????) The Fire Risk assessment for the building must be included in (section ????)
Means of Escape Defects to the means of escape such as obstructions to exits, damaged fire resisting doors or self closers, handrails to staircases, broken fire resisting wired glass etc should be notified to the person responsible for remedial action who should also record the action taken.
Fire Alarm The weekly test of the fire alarm system should be recorded together with appropriate details of the result. Defaults such as inaudibility, the failure of automatic hold-open devices fitted to fire resisting doors to operate should be stated, together with the action taken to return the system to satisfactory working condition (section ????) Record of Emergency Lighting Tests Monthly tests of the emergency lights are required. For fixed light units a fish test key will be required. When torches are used any battery replacement should be recorded. Monthly tests are a requirement of the building occupants – these tests are not covered by the drain down tests carried out by contractors (section ????) ALSO see instruction of how to do it (section ????)
Record of fire extinguisher or sprinkler tests Extiguishers should be tested year by contractors and building occupants should conduct regular inspections of the units to ensure they are in the correct positions, or in good condition ETC (section ????) Staff Training It is essential that to record induction training, annual refresher training, evacuation chair training (where necessary) and fire extinguisher training. This should be completed in respect of all staff, both full-time and part-time. (section ????) Record of Fire Occurrences Following fire incidents at the premises, the person in charge should record the nature of the occurrence, what action was taken (eg fire alarm operated, all persons removed to assembly point) how the fire was extinguished and whether there was any damage or injury sustained. The Insurance Team should also be informed as soon as possible
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Fire Drills and evacuations Information concerning the type of fire drill carried out (eg planned drill or false alarm activation (no fire) should be recorded (section ????) ALSO see instruction of how to do it (section ????) Methods of evacuation of the premises should be determined following the detailed risk assessment. In order to ensure the effectiveness of these methods regular fire drills must be undertaken so that everyone is familiar with the evacuation routine. These drills must involve all occupants of the premises including any disabled persons.
The drill should take the form of the discovery of an emergency, raising the alarm, evacuation and roll call. A member of the staff or a resident should be told of an incident and should initiate the appropriate action. Educational establishments should undertake drills at least each term and all other establishments at least annually. Residential Homes should refer to Services for Families Fire Procedures. Arrangements can be made for a Fire and Rescue Service Officer to witness a drill and advise as necessary.
The following elementary principles should be applied during fire drills.
(a) There should be no running or shouting.
(b) No passing on staircases.
(c) The drill should be carried out as quietly as possible in order that any instructions might be plainly heard.
(d) Unless delegated specific duties, all persons should report to the assembly point.
(e) Consideration should be given to occasionally blocking off a particular exit so that an alternative means of escape has to be considered.
(f) Class registers, visitor's books, client lists etc must be taken out during a fire drill for checking, along with the Fire and Evacuation Routine and Record Book, which may be needed for subsequent claims/legal verification.
(g) No person should be allowed to return to the building until the drill is completed.
Prevention of Fire In order to prevent fire it is necessary to appreciate how a fire could arise. Having an intelligent understanding of the causes of fire is the first step towards assessing the risks and taking the necessary precautions. If it is not possible to remove the risk altogether, sensible risk management will lessen the exposure to fire potential. The following are some examples of common causes of fire.
(i) misuse of electrical equipment, ie computers, photocopiers etc;
(ii) children playing with matches or fire;
(iii) careless disposal of smoking materials;
(iv) use of heating appliances such as portable cookers or radiators;
(v) malicious ignition (arson);
(vi) uncontrolled rubbish burning;
(vii) careless use of heat application, eg blow lamps, blow torches etc.
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Prevention of Fire Spread.
This can be accomplished by carrying out relatively simple acts, eg:
a) Closing doors and windows can confine a fire to one portion of a building.
b) Self-closing doors are designed to prevent smoke and heat from affecting the alternative escape routes. The safety of occupants may be adversely affected if any of these doors are not kept closed. If such doors must be held open temporarily for any purpose they must be closed again as soon as possible. They should never be fastened open at night or at any other times when an upper floor is in use and they should be left in the closed position when the premises are vacated. Fire resisting self-closing doors may only be held open by automatically operated door releases as prescribed in the relevant guide for the premises.
Calling the Fire and Rescue Service
a) The task of calling the Emergency Services should be assigned to a nominated post (eg Receptionist, Admin Officer) and all persons who may occupy that post should be trained in the correct procedure. A standard message should be predetermined to ensure the effective communication) and posted by each relevant telephone.
b) All other actions required by the Fire and Evacuation Routine should be communicated to staff and reinforced by suitably placed notices in Section 7.
c) A contingency plan should also be put in place for alternative means of obtaining the required assistance in case the principal means should fail for any reason eg use of mobile phones (these should not be relied on as a primary means of contact) or use of a phone in an adjacent building
Instructions for calling the Fire and Rescue Service (to be posted adjacent to the telephone)
IN CASE OF FIRE
CALL THE FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE
FOR AN OUTSIDE LINE PRESS THEN DIAL "999" OR "112"
Give the operator your telephone number and ask for "Fire and Rescue Service". When the Fire and Rescue Service replies speak clearly,:
"Fire at
.....................................................................................................................................
(Give exact address)
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Do not assume that the call has been received until it has been acknowledged by the Fire and Rescue Service.
Instructions to Staff (General instructions to be observed by Staff)
1. You must make yourself familiar with the instructions contained in the Fire Safety Book
2. In the event of fie it is the first duty of all concerned to ensure the safety of other persons in the premises. For this purpose you should make certain that you are familiar with all the means of escape in case of fire. Immediately you discover a fire or one is reported to you, you should:
SOUND THE ALARM
3. A nominated person at the establishment or their authorised deputy is responsible for ensuring that the Fire and Rescue Service is called immediately on the sounding of the fire alarm.
4. Immediately after the fire alarm has sounded you should:
REMOVE EVERYONE FROM THE IMMEDIATE DANGER AREA AND EVACUATE IF NECESSARY
(The risk assessment for your particular premises will define the levels of evacuation required. In some residential establishments immediate and total evacuation of the building may not be possible or desirable. Residents with restricted mobility, wheelchair users and bed-bound cannot negotiate escape routes, particularly staircases, unaided).
The fire defences within your premises will determine the correct procedures. (If in doubt contact the Fire Safety Officer to advise you).
SHOULD EVACUATION BECOME NECESSARY:
(a) In residential establishments:
(b) escort the residents in your charge from the building in accordance
with the detailed fire drill procedure ensuring that all doors through which you pass are closed after you;
1. (ii) when the residents have arrived at the assembly point, call the roll and notify the Head of the establishment at once of the result (ie all residents present or one resident missing and the name, as the case may be).
(b) In non-residential establishments:
(i) escort pupils, staff, visitors and members of the public who are in the
premises to the assembly point in accordance with the pre-planned procedure ensuring that all doors through which you pass are closed after you;
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(ii) on arrival at the assembly point report as detailed in the fire drill routine relevant to your premises.
All escape routes should be regularly checked to ensure that they are not obstructed and that the
exit doors are unlocked and available for use
NOTES: Fire resisting self-closing doors should be maintained in effective working order and kept closed at all times. Automatic fire doors must be adequately maintained at all times.
Corridors and stairways and doors on escape routes must be kept free from obstruction.
Fastenings and signs on doors should be maintained in good order. LIFTS must not be used during a fire emergency or for fire drills
Fire alarm points must be kept free from obstruction. The audible warning should be capable of being heard by all those it is intended to warn. Fire alarms should be tested at weekly intervals by actuating a different call point for each successive test. The duration of the test need only be sufficient to ensure that the system operates satisfactorily. DEFECTS MUST RECEIVE IMMEDIATE ATTENTION. For this purpose: (Insert detail of procedure). What are the Employee duties By law, you are an employee must :
Take reasonable care of yourself and any one affected by your work
Cooperate with the Council or landlord to make their fire safety policies work
Report serious and immediate dangers
Never interfere with or misuse fire safety arrangements or equipment
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FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT
1. Fire Fighting Equipment must not be obstructed.
2. Fire Fighting Equipment should either be hung from wall brackets with the carrying handle not more than 1m from floor level or placed in an approved floor stand.
3. Staff must be familiar with the method of operation and the use of all equipment provided.
4. Fire Fighting Equipment is subjected to annual checks and maintenance by the Contractor and the records should be entered on each occasion in this folder
5. If defects are noted or an extinguisher has been discharged for any reason the Contractor should be notified immediately. For this purpose contacting the Facilities Officer
6. Fire extinguishers should be sited on exit routes, preferably near to exit doors or where they are provided for specific risks, on exit routes near to the hazards they protect.
All new extinguishers will now be RED with a coloured band indicating the extinguishing medium.
The respective coloured bands indicate: RED WATER
CREAM FOAM
BLUE POWDER
BLACK CO2
In addition to providing fire fighting equipment it MAY be necessary to provide signs indicating its position. Any such signs must now comply with the Safety Signs and Signals Regulations 1996. However these signs are only required for example where:
In a building where the internal layout is such that the extinguishers provided are NOT clearly visible.
Where the fire fighting equipment is positioned out of sight (in a cupboard or recessed fire points).
Fire Extinguishers Fire fighting equipment can reduce the risk of a small fire, e.g. a fire in a waste-paper bin, developing into a large one. The safe use of an appropriate fire extinguisher to control a fire in its early stages can also significantly reduce the risk to other people in the premises by allowing people to assist others who are at risk. The purpose of the fire safety strategy is to primarily ensure the safety of staff/visitors/pupils/students. In case of fire, the first priority should be to raise the alarm to ensure that all staff/visitors/pupils/students are safely evacuated. If fire wardens/teachers/lecturers are in any doubt, they should concentrate on evacuation rather than firefighting. People with no training should not be expected to attempt to extinguish a fire.
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However, all staff should be familiar with the location and basic operating procedures for the equipment provided, in case they need to use it. If the fire strategy means that certain people (e.g. fire marshals) will be expected to take a more active role, then they should be provided with more comprehensive training. This may include staff who are designated to use specialist extinguishers (e.g. in science, engineering or workshop areas). The Fire Service should be called to ALL incidents of fire, including those fires thought to have been extinguished. .
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Fire Evacuation Plan
Emergency Evacuation Plan for :
Premises address and contact number
Plan date
Review date (review with the FRA)
Sound of the alarm
The sound of the alarm will be (cross through as appropriate): A continuously warning siren/bell A shouted warning
Raising the alarm
In the event of a fire beginning (cross through as appropriate): If the fire is discovered by a staff member or if a visitor notifies a staff member of a fire, the alarm will be raised by: activation of the nearest fire alarm call point or commencing manual warning (shout etc) If fire is detected by automatic detectors, this will trigger the fire alarm
Action staff should take on hearing the alarm or seeing smoke or fire
The following actions will be taken upon the fire alarm being sounded/raised:
Duty manager will take charge and lead in the fire evacuation ensuring the area they are responsible for have been cleared
Duty manages pick up visitors signing in book/sheet and take to assembly point
Staff will commence evacuation of the building - ensuring this is done in a calm and orderly manner.
Separate ‘Personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs) are in place for staff, and known visitors with additional needs, as well as ‘General emergency evacuation plans (GEEPs)’ for members of public who may visit the building. Both these will be implemented as appropriate (i.e. depending on whether any person subject to a plan is present on site)
Lifts must not be used for evacuations
Staff to ensure all doors and windows are closed on the way out
If safe to do, electrical mains and gas supplies should be switched off before leaving the building. The location of these are detailed below if known.
Meet at assembly point and check all contractors, visitors and staff members are accounted for
If smoke or fire is seen Dial 999 and request attendance by the Fire Service. Caller gives their name, name of building & building address, contact number and details of fire
Duty manager to liaise with Fire Service upon their arrival and give details of the fire and any horizontal evacuation (where applicable)
Duty manager to ensure nobody re-enters the building until confirmed safe to do so by the Fire Service
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Escape routes
The escape routes from the building are: (detail designated fire escape routes) 1. 2. 3. 4.
Fire assembly point
The assembly point is:
Fighting fires – Extinguisher use
Fire extinguishers will only be used where:
Staff have received training and feel confident in their use
Where it is deemed safe to do so i.e. there is a clear means of escape, fire is small Personal safety always takes priority and, if in any doubt, staff should not attempt to extinguish a fire
Location of key safety hazards or other fire related equipment
Gas/oil supply shut off:
Mains fuse box:
Mains water inlet:
Gas/oxygen cylinders:
Location of fire alarm panel:
Location of sprinkler panel (if applicable) :
Number of staff needed to carry out evacuation plan
To implement the evacuation plan, __ number of trained staff are needed on duty
Between 00:00 and 23:59 (time)/on weekends/during special events (see variations section below) etc, 1 staff need to be on duty at all times
Equipment needed to effect the emergency plan
Dependant on building and fire measures in place but could include: two-way radio, torches, hi-visibility tabards, evacuation chairs etc.
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Variations to plan
Alternative measures required in case of :
Late opening, events, lone working etc and what alternative measures would be needed. If variations to normal activities are such that the plan does not adequately cover these activities, then consider whether a separate evacuation plan is needed in these instances:
Back up arrangements
Detail back up arrangements in the event of fire alarm failure or staff absence etc
Responsibilities
For ensuring plan is up to date
The occupying Service/s
For ensuring adequate staff are on duty to carry out the evacuation plan
The occupying Service/s
For training staff on the evacuation plan and in their roles and responsibilities
The team manager/s for staff on site
Alternative arrangements will be made to cover staff absences/ leave etc to ensure there are always a sufficient number of trained staff available on site
NOTE : Should your building already have a comprehensive fire evacuation plan, such as at buildings like residential homes or day centres you should include it in this section
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Section 3 Insert your fire panel zone list and plan & sprinkler zone plan, where applicable and dispose of this sheet Insert copy of your fire action sign (filled in) here and dispose of this sheet
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Section 4 Insert your current Fire Risk Assessment here and dispose of this sheet
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FIRE ALARM - section 5
To be completed annually by Fire Alarm Contractor and by establishment following weekly inspection if defect apparent. (requirement by law)
DATE OF
TEST
ACTUATION POINT
TESTED
SATISFACTORY (including audibility)
DEFECT ACTION SIGNED
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FIRE ALARM - section 5 To be completed annually by Fire Alarm Contractor and by establishment following weekly inspection if defect apparent. (requirement by law)
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DATE OF
TEST
ACTUATION POINT
TESTED
SATISFACTORY (including audibility)
DEFECT ACTION SIGNED
FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT – section 6
INSPECTION BY CONTRACTOR/ESTABLISHMENT AS APPROPRIATE (requirement by Law)
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DATE LOCATION DEFECT
CONTRACTOR INFORMED/ REMEDIED
(if appropriate)
SIGNED
FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT – section 6
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INSPECTION BY CONTRACTOR/ESTABLISHMENT AS APPROPRIATE (requirement by Law)
DATE LOCATION DEFECT
CONTRACTOR INFORMED/ REMEDIED
(if appropriate)
SIGNED
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RECORD OF FIRE DRILLS & EVACUATIONS - section 7 (requirement by Law)
DATE & TIME OF DRILL
PERSONS ATTENDING/TIME TAKEN TO EVACUATE ANY OTHER CONSIDERATIONS IE EXITS BLOCKED ETC
SIGNED
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RECORD OF FIRE DRILLS & EVACUATIONS - section 7 (requirement by Law)
DATE & TIME OF DRILL
PERSONS ATTENDING/TIME TAKEN TO EVACUATE ANY OTHER CONSIDERATIONS IE EXITS BLOCKED ETC
SIGNED
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RECORD OF EMERGENCY LIGHTING (AND TORCHES) – Section 8
(requirement by Law)
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DATE OF TEST
DEFECT ACTION SIGNED
RECORD OF EMERGENCY LIGHTING (AND TORCHES) – Section 8
(requirement by Law)
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DATE OF TEST
DEFECT ACTION SIGNED
RECORD OF STAFF TRAINING - Section 9
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Record all fire safety training
Induction training for all staff
Reading of fire book
Annual staff refresher
Evacuation chair training (where applicable)
NAME Training type SIGNATURE DATE
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RECORD OF STAFF TRAINING - Section 9
Record all fire safety training
Induction training for all staff
Reading of fire book
Annual staff refresher
Evacuation chair training (where applicable)
NAME Training type SIGNATURE DATE
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RECORD OF FIRE OCCURRENCES - Section 9 Details of any outbreak of fire are to be recorded and all information connected with the occurrence is to be
reported to: (Risk Litigation & Insurance Section and the appropriate Line Manager).
DATE BRIEF DETAILS SIGNED
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GUIDE TO CARRYING OUT A SUPERVISED
EVACUATION DRILL
Introduction
1. Responsible persons who are not in direct control of premises or sites that are not included
in these organised fire drills are to ensure that they carry out an annual supervised fire drill,
which is formally recorded. Additionally, any unscheduled fire alarm activations should be
treated as a supplementary evacuation drill. These unwanted alarms however, do not
obviate the need for an annual recorded supervised fire drill.
2. The purpose and objectives of any fire evacuation drill include:
o To identify any weaknesses in the evacuation strategy;
o To test the procedure after a recent alteration or changes to working practices;
o To familiarise new occupants with procedures;
o To test the arrangements for disabled people;
o To identify weaknesses in emergency communication procedures and systems;
o To identify positive and negative reactions of staff with designated responsibilities
such as Fire Evacuation Marshals (FEM)
Who should take part – the evacuation should be for all occupants of the building except
those who may need to ensure the security of the premises, or, people who are required to
stay with certain equipment or process that can’t be closed down.
3. Where appropriate it would be helpful to include members of the public in your fire drill –
ensuring that all Health and Safety are addressed before you do so.
4. Disabled people – procedures must be in place for the evacuation of staff and visitors with
disabilities. Guidance on disabled evacuation and PEEP’s are available for SCC Health and
Safety Manual – http://www.surreycc.gov.uk/your-council/how-the-council-works/council-
policies-and-strategies/health-and-safety-manual. In addition, Property services will be able
to offer advice on useful equipment or recommendations for arrangements. The use of a
safe refuse area will depend on the layout of the individual building and specific requirements
of individuals.
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Considerations (not comprehensive) prior to undertaking the fire evacuation drills:
1. Consult and coordinate – you will need to coordinate the fire alarm drill with any other
building occupants/departments. Their involvement or awareness of the drill is essential so
that all parties have agreed to the drill and participate.
2. Prevent unintentional Fire Brigade attendance – before the start of a drill, ensure that the
emergency services are not alerted by pre warning the person who makes the call to the
emergency services that it is a drill. If the alarm is monitored by an Alarm Receiving Centre
(ARC) ensure that the fire alarm system has been taken off line, an account reference
number and the ARC telephone number will be needed.
3. Weather conditions – the weather conditions proposed prior to the proposed fire drill time
and date should be considered; as snow, ice, thunder and lightning or torrential rain are not
ideal for the drill as it introduced potential hazards to participants. If these conditions are
experienced immediately prior to the proposed drill it is recommended to postpone to a time
when the conditions are less hazardous.
4. Escape routes – check external stairs and routes to ensure that there are no hazards or
conditions that may cause an accident. For example, excessive moss, algae, pigeon
droppings, damage to steps, rubbish or obstructions. The cleanliness and checks of escape
routes should be undertaken on a regular basis.
5. Final fire exit door furniture – you should keep spares of ceramic or glass components of
slide bolts, break glass door releases or fire alarm call points located by the exits in
buildings. Should these be broken during the drill they can be replaced.
6. Staff Information – circulate details of the drill and stipulate their duty to participate. It may
not be beneficial to have ‘surprise’ drills as the health and safety risk may outweigh the
benefits.
When carrying out the drill the organiser/supervise may find it useful to:
Use ‘observers’ to block main routes off (as if affected by fire) so occupants have to use the
‘alternative escape routes’ and also brief the Fire Evacuation Marshals (FEM) to direct the
building occupants to through alternative routes from floors or areas. This helps occupants
familiarise themselves with those unfamiliar routes from their work areas and to demonstrate
/ encourage escape from the nearest available exit rather than using the main entrance into
a building or floor.
Nominate ‘observers’;
Ask if any specialist / sensitive equipment can be left safely or that closedown procedures
are in place;
Inform visitors or members of the public if they’re present;
Ask a member of staff to set off the fire alarm call point using the test key. This will indicate
the level of knowledge regarding the location of the nearest call point;
Ensure that the FEM’s direct occupants to the fire assembly point and provide control where
there is road traffic etc;
The lifts must not be used in the event of a fire, with the exception of designated evacuation
lifts if there are any;
Encourage the FEM’s to report that their areas are clear to the Senior FEM and if they’re
aware of any locations of any people left in the building. This will normally be those with
disabilities or specific safety duties;
The SFEM should be prepared to give information to the Fire Brigade as if it were an
emergency. Where possible the SFEM/FEM should conduct a roll call as soon as possible
at the designated assembly point . The SFEM should note how many people are
unaccounted for and in a real situation, this will be passed onto the Fire and Rescue service;
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Once the roll call is complete or all reports have been received, allow people to return to the
building;
All staff should be extremely careful when evacuating across a street or road
Monitoring and debrief Throughout the drill the responsible person and nominated observers should pay particular attention to –
Communication difficulties relating to the roll call and establishing that everyone is accounted
for;
Use the nearest available escape routes rather than the main entrance;
Difficulties with opening the Final fire exit doors;
Difficulties experienced by people with disabilities or children;
The roles of specified people or FEM’s;
Inappropriate actions, stopping to collect personal items, not leaving PC’s, trying to use lifts
etc;
Windows and doors not being closed by people as they leave.
ON COMPLETION OF THE FIRE DRILL
On the spot debriefs are useful to discuss the fire drill, encouraging feedback from
everybody. Later, reports from FEM and observations from other people should be collated
and reviewed. Any conclusions and remedial actions should be recorded and implemented;
A record should be kept of the time taken for the last person to leave the building after the
fire alarm activation
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GUIDE TO THE MONTHLY TESTING OF EMERGENCY LIGHT SYSTEMS
Introduction
The owner or person who has control over the premises is responsibility for a number of actions or tests in relation to the buildings emergency lighting system, to ensure compliance in securing the means of escape under the regulatory reform order (Fire Safety) 2005. The ‘Responsible Person’ is to undertake or nominate a suitable person (e.g. Residence or Facility Managers) to supervise testing of the emergency lighting system. The person should have sufficient authority to authorise any necessary work to the alarm system or units to keep operational at all times. The monthly duties are outlined here, are in addition to the routine maintenance required to be carried out by a professional electrical contractor in respect of a buildings emergency lighting system annually.
Keeping of records
SCC Maintenance or the ‘Responsible Person’ to ensure that the emergency log book is kept up to date, and the following events recorded in it:
Dates of each periodic inspection and test
Dates and brief details of any of each service inspection or test carried out,
Dates and brief details of any of any defects and remedial actions taken,
Any alterations to the emergency lighting system
The log book must be made available to any authorised person.
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Monthly inspections and tests by users
When automatic testing devices are used, the information shall be recorded monthly. Monthly (manual) test – shall be carried out as follows,
1. Test key will be required, consisting of a small fish tailed key to insert into the test facility
normally found adjacent to or forming part of the lighting circuit. Alternatively the local
lighting circuit can be isolated if safe and accessible to do so.
Emergency lighting ‘fish tail’ test key
2. Switch on in the emergency mode for each of the luminaries and internally illuminated exit
sign from its battery source or a failure of the supply to the normal lighting for a period long
enough for each unit to be illuminated.
Emergency lighting test switch, switched to emergency mode for illumination
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Notes:
1. During this period, all luminaries and lights shall be checked to ensure that they are present,
clean and functioning properly. At the end of this test period, the supply to the normal
lighting should be restored and any indicator light or lamp should be checked to ensure that it
is showing that the normal supply has been restored.
2. Extreme care is to be taken to ensure that full mains power is restored to the light unit by
ensuring that the Red/Green LED, which identifies an emergency lighting unit, is illuminated
upon completion of the test.
3. The LED indicates that the main power is restored and charging the lighting battery packs.
4. If the power is not restored the units will drain down its battery after 3 hours and not be in
working order and therefore non compliant.
5. Lighting units that fail to illuminate clearly or brightly, have blackened bulbs or tubes, or
doesn’t maintain luminance for desired length of time, should be repaired as soon as
possible.
Types of Emergency lighting fittings
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GUIDE TO THE WEEKLY TESTING OF FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
Introduction
The Responsible Person1 for the premises is to ensure that a Weekly Test of the building’s Fire Alarm (FA) System is carried out under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (Article 17). The ‘Weekly Test’ set out below is in addition to the routine maintenance undertaken by a professional fire alarm engineering company in respect to the building’s system. Weekly testing for most buildings on the SCC Estate will be carried out by SCC Maintenance staff or Contractors. However, in a number of premises Local Managers/Responsible Persons are responsible for the weekly testing of the fire alarm system and the up keep of records. 1. In the Fire Safety Order ‘Responsible Person’ means the employer in relation to a workplace, if the workplace is to any extent under his control. The ‘Responsible Person’ is to undertake or nominate a suitable person (e.g. Residence or Facility Managers) to supervise the fire alarm system. The person should have sufficient authority to authorise any necessary work to the alarm system immediately to ensure it is kept operational at all times. The ‘Responsible Person’ is to ensure that the Fire Alarm Logbook is kept up to date with the following events recorded in it:
• Dates & times of alarms (genuine, practice, tests or false) together with their causes where known,
• Dates, times & types of defects & faults, what action taken, reported to whom & when, • Dates of tests of the system (i.e. weekly, fire drill etc), • Dates of servicing (routine or special), • Dates & times of all periods of disconnection or disablement, • Any alterations to the system
It is vital that all actions are recorded accurately in the logbook for the protection of the ‘Responsible Person’ and made available to any authorised person (e.g. Fire Brigade). At least one Manual Call Point (MCP) is to be operated to test the ability of the controlling equipment (FA Panel) to receive a signal, sound the alarm and operate any other devices fitted to the FA system. Carry out the weekly test as follows:
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Manual Fire Call Point Break glass
Equipment required:
• A small call point triggering key or device (but in some cases you may need a screwdriver or Allen key to unscrew the front of older call points to simulate the breaking of the glass),
• Access / Enabling keys (or Enabling Codes) to the main fire alarm panel so to cancel the alarm on activation of the system when triggered at a call point as part of the test,
• The Fire Alarm Logbook – to record the test and details of call point zone, location etc,
A Manual Call point test key
Fire alarm panel (typical)
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Actions required at test:
• Isolate any Plant or Systems as necessary prior to initiating fire alarm system, • Check that where buildings have more than one FA panel networked together, that all
panels activated and that the sounders operated throughout the building, • Once alarm initiated and sounders cancelled, but before the system is reset – check the
following functions: o Ensure that all doors fitted with ‘Electromagnetic Door Security Locking
Systems’ released as part of the fire alarm activation (fire alarm needs to be activated for this function, but sounders need not be ringing),
o Ensure that any doors fitted with ‘Electromagnetic Hold Open Devices’ released and that the fire doors closed fully shut,
o Ensure that the ‘Fire Alarm Activated Do Not Enter’ signs operate, where fitted to building entrances or building separation points,
• Report or Repair any non-functioning devices, sounders, bells, door release or locking systems immediately,
Any doors with electromagnetic door security locking systems will have a (Green) emergency Manual Door release Call Point Break glass which will override if activated
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USER GUIDE FOR CLASSIFICATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS AND FIRES FOR FIRE EXTINGUISHING
PURPOSES
Fire Fighting Equipment Check Sheet Monthly Check It is expedient to formulate a routine by the owner/occupier to establish the general condition & availability of the extinguishers. This should be recorded in 7
Extinguisher checks should include:
1. Has it been used?
2. Is it located in the designated place?
3. Is it unobstructed, visible & its operating instructions facing outwards?
4. Are the operating instructions clear & legible?
5. Has there been any damage sustained?
6. Does the gauge (if fitted) have a reading in the operable range?
7. Are the seals or tamper proof indicators broken or missing?
8. Is the extinguisher identification sign in place & correct for type?
Annual Inspection
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A full service by a contracted extinguisher service technician should take place.
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS – how to use them The four common extinguishing agents used in portable fire extinguishers are water, foam, dry powder and carbon dioxide: Water – red band Foam –cream band Dry powder – blue Carbon Dioxide – black band Please note that all UK fire extinguishers are red and usually contain a narrow colour band indicating the type of portable fire extinguisher (BS EN 3), plus a display label indicating what fires it is suitable for. Furthermore, extinguishers are marked or rated with a number indicating the size of fire they are capable of extinguishing eg. a 9 litre water = 13A. Water is fitted for use on what is known as minor Class A fires such as paper, cloth, wood and other ordinary combustible materials; they are usually supplied in two sizes, either 6 or 9 litres. If a person is trained and confident to use on a minor fire, they should lift it from the wall bracket or stand; ensure it is fully charged; ensure there is no live electrical equipment in the area; walk with the extinguisher towards the fire and stop at a safe distance; pull out the pin if the extinguisher is heavy place it on the floor; hold the hose and aim it at the base of the fire; squeeze the leaver and sweep the leaver from side to side. If the fire is spreading vertically, again aim the hose at the base of the fire and sweep the jet upwards slowly in the direction of the fire. Ensure the fire has been extinguished, focus on any hot spots that may re-ignite. Foam, the most modern type available is the aqueous film forming foam type (AFFF). Available in 2 to 9 litre, are suitable for offices and general use and are used on minor Class A and Class B fires (flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, oils, paraffin etc.) and fires involving electrical appliances such as computers, electrical heaters, stereos, fuse boxes etc. (ensure the foam extinguisher has been dielectrically tested prior to use involving electrical appliances). If a person is trained and competent to use an extinguisher on a minor fire, firstly they should lift the extinguisher from the wall bracket or stand, ensure that it is fully charged, walk towards the fire remaining a safe distance from the fire, remove the safety pin, if the extinguisher is heavy place it on the floor, hold the hose and aim it: flammable liquids: aim the hose at a vertical surface near the fire, the foam should then spread across the surface of the fire smothering it: electrical appliances: aim the hose at the appliance, keeping a safe distance of at least 1 metre: solid combustibles: aim the hose at the base of the fire, moving across the area of the fire Squeeze the lever slowly, as the fire starts to diminish move in closer to it. Ensure that all of the fire has been extinguished; the foam creates a blanket over the fire which helps prevents re-ignition. A wet chemical extinguisher is another type of foam extinguisher that is used for cooking oil fires, its zone colour is canary yellow. Dry powder, are versatile and can be used on class A, B and C type fires (involving flammable gasses such as propane, hydrogen, methane, natural gas etc.), they can be obtained in a variety of sizes from 1 to 9kg and are ideal in environment’s that contain a mix of fire risks, however, should not be used within small rooms, homes and offices (risk of inhalation/suffocation). The most
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common multi-purpose dry powder extinguisher is known as the ABC and there are other specialist extinguishers for combustible metal fires (Class D). If a person is trained and competent to use an extinguisher on a minor fire, firstly they should lift the extinguisher from the wall bracket or stand, ensure that it is fully charged, walk towards the fire remaining a safe distance from the fire, remove the safety pin, if the extinguisher is heavy place it on the floor, hold the hose and aim it: solid materials: aim the hose at the base of the flames, moving across the area of the fire spilled liquids: aim the hose at the near edge of the fire and with a rapid sweeping motion, drive the fire towards the far edge until the flames have been extinguished: flowing liquids/gases: direct the hose at the base of the flames and sweep upwards until the flames have been extinguished: electrical equipment: turn off the power if possible, direct the hose straight at the fire:Squeeze the lever slowly to discharge the powder, as the fire diminishes move closer to it. Ensure all of the fire has been extinguished as re-ignition is possible when a dry powder has been used. C02 were originally designed for use on Class B flammable liquid fires, however, they are also suitable for use on small electrical equipment fires as C02 is not a conductor of electricity. Care needs to be taken that they are not used in small rooms as C02 can asphyxiate people, plus as the C02 drifts away fires can re-ignite. They are usually available in 2, 5 and 7kg sizes. If a person is trained and competent to use an extinguisher on a minor fire, firstly they should lift the extinguisher from the wall bracket or stand, ensure that it is fully charged, walk towards the fire remaining a safe distance from the fire, remove the safety pin, if the extinguisher is heavy place it on the floor, point the horn and aim it, ensure there is no further contact with the horn unless its frost free:
Flammable liquids: Aim the horn at the base of the fire and move across the area. Be careful not to splash the burning liquid with the powerful jet of the CO2 extinguisher:
Electrical equipment: Switch off the power (if safe to do so) and then direct the hose straight at the fire: Squeeze the lever slowly to begin discharging the extinguisher, as the fire starts to diminish carefully move closer until extinguished. Please note that a 2kg CO2 extinguisher only has a very short discharge time. Ensure all the fire has been extinguished as re-ignition is possible when a CO2 extinguisher has been used
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Fire Safety Training
There is a range of Fire Safety training courses available on the SCC S-net Portal
To access this log on to the portal using your individual login and password
1. Click on Self Service 2. Click on MyLearing 3. Click on MyLeaning (2nd page) 4. Click on Health & Safety
There are a number of web based training course available - these include :
1. Introduction to fire safety 2. Keeping vulnerable adults safe from fire
In addition to these courses there are classroom courses available (you may require your manager’s permission to sign up for these :
Follow the above procedure and then :
5. Click on Fire Safety
Choose from the below classroom based courses :
1. Fire extinguisher training 2. Fire safety awareness 3. Fire safety in elderly care homes 4. Fire safety in adult/young people’s homes 5. Fire warden non fully serviced buildings
The amount of training you require will depend on the risks in your building
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Responsibilities of a Duty Managers & staff General Duties 1. Know your area of responsibility and be familiar with all means of escape. 2. All staff, including new employees and temporary/bank staff, must be made aware of the fire
evacuation procedures and that the fire alarm is tested on : Day ________________________ Time ___________________
3. Ensure that fire extinguishers are in their correct positions. If not please notify the Team Manager immediately. Duties in the Event of Fire
1. When the alarm sounds ensure all staff evacuate the building immediately via the nearest available exit. Visitors may need extra help and reassurance in leaving the building.
2. Check all toilets and individual offices/rooms within your area.
3. Once your area is clear leave the building immediately closing all doors behind you. Inform the Premises Fire Co-ordinator that your area has been checked.
Insert here the names of the fire wardens, the head fire warden (if you have one) or the most senior member/s of duty staff
The Premises Fire Co-ordinator will be either:
4. Having informed the Duty Manager , assemble in with all other staff and visitors Location of assembly point _____________________________________
5. Ensure all persons remain at the assembly point until the Premises Fire Co-ordinator tells them they can re-enter the building.
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Fire Warden/ Duty Manager Verification Form
“I confirm that I have received, read and understood the Fire Evacuation Procedures and the duties that are expected from a Duty Manager or Fire Warden ”.
Name Date Name Date
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Safety Procedures for Contractors The contractor shall ensure that all of his employees and sub-contractors :
1. Have read the instructions in the event of a fire which are permanently displayed in prominent positions at County Council premises
2. Are aware of the escape routes
3. Participate in any fire alarm evacuation or drill
In the event of a fire, the contractor should give the Fire & Rescue Service every assistance and guidance on the nature of the fire and any information on materials or substances that may need special attention The drill on discovering a fire is :
1. Operate the fire alarm (by making use of the fire call point break glasses) and or shout “fire”. If working out of hours dial 999
2. If it is safe to do so attack the fire with the appropriate fire extinguisher. Never let the fire get
between you and an final exit
3. If the fire cannot be controlled retreat to a place of safety, closing windows and doors behind you where possible
4. Evacuate the building and report to the designated assembly point
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PERSONAL EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLAN (PEEP)
Last reviewed: Next review: Review completed by
Name :
Building Name :
CONDITION
PLAN
Reference no.
Paste photo here
Date of birth :
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Fire Alarm Call Point Location
Number Location
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16 17
18
19
20
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Fire Extinguisher Location
Number Location
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16 17
18
19
20
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Evac Chairs
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PORTABLE APPLIANCE ELECTRICAL TESTING Surrey County Council’s policy on electrical maintenance is defined in Safety Manual Guidance Note D2. Surrey County Council as an employer is ultimately responsible for ensuring that electrical equipment is maintained in a safe condition as required by law. The law does not prescribe specific testing duties; however testing is frequently necessary to ensure adequate maintenance. Based on best practice it is advisable and encouraged to carry out portable appliance testing (PA Testing) annually. The responsibility of carrying out this testing rests with the service/department (unless otherwise determined). The testing is usually a delegated budget item and the Head of Establishment/Service is responsible for ensuring that it is carried out. What should be tested under PA Testing? The definition given for this is any electrical item having a 3-pin plug with which it is plugged into mains electricity. This includes items such as computers, laptops, charger units for mobile phones/blackberry, lamps, fans, kettles, fridges, heaters, Christmas lights etc. In the case of appliances that fail tests, it is the responsibility of the premises to ensure that they are replaced, repaired or disposed of, and that they must not be used in the meantime. Who should I use to carry out my testing? PHS Compliance formerly CLM Limited has been chosen as the mandatory contract provider for portable electrical appliance testing within Surrey County Council. Their testing is carried out in strict accordance with the IEE Code of Practice for In Service Electrical Equipment. How often do our portable appliances need testing? PHS Compliance engineers will record when each appliance is due to be retested on the appliance inventories. This is carried out in strict accordance with the IEE Code of Practice for In Service Electrical Equipment. The frequency for testing portable appliances is as follows: Class 1 appliance to be tested every 12 months. Class 2 appliances to be tested every 48 months. All IT equipment to be tested every 48 months (unless otherwise specified eg for Schools, Libraries etc). Full microwave testing + emissions to all microwaves within the portfolio every 24 months. However if your internal policies require portable appliance testing to be carried out more frequently than the above please specify your requirements at point of order and PHS Compliance will endeavour to carry out a programme of testing to meet these requirements. What happens if a portable appliance fails the test? All failed appliances will receive a failure sticker, failure certificate, and have the plug top removed with the exception of vacuum cleaners. Premises Managers will be notified immediately of failed appliances. What will it cost? The agreed costs are: £1.00 + vat per appliance (during normal working hours) £1.10 + vat per appliance (outside normal working hours) £4.95 + vat Microwave emissions tests. £4.50 + vat Fixed appliance testing.
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Prices are also inclusive of minor repairs where necessary (replacement plug top, replacement fuse if incorrectly rated and re-termination of damaged flexes). All appliances tested will be bar coded. These costs are subject to a minimum charge of £55.00 + VAT covering up to 50 appliances. How will the results of the test be provided? The above prices are inclusive of results and appliance inventories. These are available in several different formats, and your choice should be specified at the point of order.
How do I order PA Testing? You can arrange your testing by contacting either of the CLM personnel below: Miss Natalie Taylor – Renewal Team Leader Tel: 01942 290888 e-mail: natalietaylor@phs.co.uk Mr Shane Suter – Regional Sales Manager Mobile 07827 804035 e-mail: shanesuter@phs.co.uk
After the initial contact PHS will ascertain as many details about your requirements as is possible. These details are then matched with your purchase order number. Please note that PHS will not accept an order without a SCC purchase order. Please ensure that the order includes:
Address for PA Testing to be carried out Invoice address (if different from above) Contact name Contact telephone number
Vendor Number - 118897 PHS cannot carry out any PA Testing without a SCC Purchase Order Invoicing Procedure Upon completion of testing PHS will despatch an invoice within 4 working days. Providing the information is acceptable PHS would expect payment within 30 days. Quality Control Following PA Testing you will receive a customer feedback form. Please complete the form as it serves as a tool to gather feedback on PHS and their performance. PHS operate a helpdesk on 01942 290888 and you should receive an answer to any problem within 4 hrs. The Criminal Record Bureau has checked all PHS operatives. Operatives from PHS will wear corporate work wear and PHS photographic ID cards. Why should I use PHS Compliance? Estates Planning & Management and Procurement have secured this contract agreement which is mandatory to enable you to carry out PA Testing. The contract agreements have been negotiated by Central Government agencies for use by all public authorities. Mandatory contracts for supplies and services must be used where they exist. For further information or advice please contact your Facilities Officer.
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Electrical safety awareness The use of electrical apparatus continues to increase. All employees should be reminded that electricity can cause fatal accidents. Constant safety awareness is necessary when using electricity in any form.
Withdraw all unnecessary equipment from use.
Dispose of all redundant equipment and items which cannot be repaired to a safe standard.
All equipment must have been certified safe by the supplier and/or a competent person prior to use.
Users should examine equipment for obvious defects prior to each use.
The types of fault/bad practices to look for include:
Overloading of socket outlets by using adapters.
Knotted or frayed cables and cables with temporary joints.
Damaged insulation and bare wires.
Cables not fitted properly into plugs or appliances. (The clamp in a plug should grip the outer sheath
of the cable, not just the coloured conductor insulation.)
Cracked or chipped plugs and sockets.
Incorrectly routed cables (eg across passageways).
Particular attention should be paid to common and/or high risk items such as:
Typing, dictating and calculating equipment and photocopiers.
Electronic equipment including televisions, radios, audio and video recorders and display screen
equipment.
Transportable apparatus with flexible cables, eg cine-projectors, floor polishers, vacuum cleaners,
spin dryers, convector heaters, etc .
Extension leads, electric kettles, machine and portable tools, laboratory equipment, stage lighting,
aquaria and swimming pool plant.
If a fault is detected or suspected the procedure is:
Switch off.
Unplug.
Report to manager responsible.
No unauthorised repairs or modifications are allowed.
Electrical equipment should not be used outdoors without appropriate precautions (eg low voltage supply, residual current device, etc).
With the exception of items like refrigerators, freezers and some heating equipment, most appliances should be switched off at the socket outlet or unplugged when not in use and certainly at the end of the working day.
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If it is considered essential to leave equipment operating unattended, eg overnight, then adequate precautions must be taken to ensure that nothing can go wrong, especially that the equipment will not catch fire if it overheats or malfunctions. (Advice on these points should be sought as necessary from the manufacturers or electricians). A notice should be adjacent to the equipment indicating why it has been left running and giving the name, address and telephone number of the member of staff who should be contacted in emergency.
Hot works Hot works shall mean any activity involving the use of flame or heat, including welding (gas and electric), brazing, soldering, hot bitumen works, paint stripping, etc.
Local rules and regulations
Before commencement of any hot works, contractors shall liaise with the head of establishment/responsible officer at individual county council premises, who shall notify the contractor of any local rules or regulations (eg fire procedures, hot works permit, etc). A method statement must be provided by the contractor where the hot works may be of a particularly hazardous nature (eg in confined space or work on a tank or vessel that may have contained flammable liquids or other materials whose residues might liberate explosive vapours when heated). Safeguards
Tar boilers, lead heaters and similar equipment should only be taken onto roofs in exceptional circumstances, when a non-combustible heat insulating base must be provided to prevent heat igniting the roof. Such equipment must always be supervised by an experienced operative and be sited where spilled material can easily be controlled. Gas cylinders must be at least 3 meters from the burner and at least one appropriate fire extinguisher must be at hand.
Non-combustible screens must be placed around welding, grinding or cutting activities to protect passers-by and the building fabric.
All combustible material must be removed from the area of the work. Where combustible material is fixed, it must be covered with fire retardant sheets. Timber floors must be protected from the heat of flames and hot slag with a covering of sand or other non-combustible material.
Flame or heat producing apparatus must not be used near or above containers of flammable liquids or gases.
Special precautions must be taken to prevent flames, sparks or molten metal reaching combustible materials along or down ducts, channels, holes in walls and floors. Non-combustible material must be used for temporary plugging of holes.
If hot work is to be done on a metal partition, wall or ceiling, combustibles on the other side must be moved away so they cannot be ignited by conduction, radiation or hot sparks.
Equipment must never be left unattended when alight.
Portable fire extinguishers which are capable of extinguishing the type of fire likely to occur must be provided at the work site by the contractor. The contractor must keep a careful watch for fire breaking out whilst work is in progress.
Note: The permanent fire extinguishers located at county council premises must not be used for this purpose.
Fire watch
Regular checks should be undertaken to ensure that the fire retardant sheets provide adequate protection for the combustible materials.
Combustibles adjacent to the opposite side of metal partitions, walls, ceilings or roofs upon which hot work is being carried out must be checked regularly.
The area of any hot works must be thoroughly examined one hour after the work has finished to detect and extinguish any smouldering or previously unnoticed fire. Carefully inspect floor above and below and adjoining rooms.
Oxygen, acetylene and fuel cases
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Gas cylinders must be secured in the vertical position and fitted with a regulator. Flash-back arresters must be fitted to all gas welding/cutting equipment. Gas cylinders must be removed from buildings at the end of the working day and stored in well ventilated areas (Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) must not be stored or left in areas below ground level).
The number of gas cylinders at the point of work shall be as small as practicable. All flammable liquids and LPG must be stored, conveyed and used in accordance with the regulations covering those substances.
Surrey Fire & Rescue Call Challenging policy If your business is one of those listed below, then we will use the Call Challenge process when dealing with your automated fire alarm (AFA). Hostels, Hotels, Other sleeping accommodation (non-domestic, excluding prisons), Further education premises, Public buildings, Licensed premises, Schools, Shops, Other premises open to public, Factories, Warehouses, Offices and other workplaces
Where there is a significant risk to vulnerable people – eg hospitals, care homes and domestic properties – we will continue the present system of sending an immediate automatic response to the premises. However if your business falls into the above categories and has a history of false alarms – for instance if the Fire and Rescue Service has had to take enforcement action against your business – we may reserve the right to attend until a fire is confirmed. 2. What is the actual change? As of January 1, 2008, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service have introduced a Call Challenge system when dealing with AFAs at commercial premises, to ensure the appropriate response is sent. 3. How will it affect my property? The process applies to the businesses listed above, between the hours of 7am-7pm, when businesses are likely to have someone on-site to investigate the cause of the alarm. Between 7pm-7am – when premises are more likely to be empty – an automatic alarm will still trigger the same emergency attendance as at present. When an automatic fire alarm signal is received at our Surrey Fire & Rescue, we will expect the business to tell us:
- if there are obvious signs of fire. If there are, we will ascertain the resource required and immediately send an emergency response to the premises.
- if there are not, we will ask your staff to check the premises, and call us back if there are further signs of fire.
Staff are not expected to take unnecessary risks and appropriate fire safety training should be undertaken as part of your responsibilities under law. 4. What are my responsibilities under law? The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 places a number of legal duties on business owners, including a legal requirement to:
- carry out a fire risk assessment and act on the significant findings of this - provide adequate means of detecting/giving warning the event of a fire - provide appropriate procedures in respect of safety drills and instructions - provide adequate maintenance systems for provision of fire safety
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- ensure employees are provided with adequate safety training Unnecessary automatic fire alarm alerts could indicate a failure to comply with these responsibilities, and subsequently legal enforcement action may be taken against the occupier by Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. 5. Where can I find further information? Contact the SCC Facilities Officer for your building
**CHANGES EFFECTIVE FROM JANUARY 1, 2008**
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IF ANYONE HAS ANY SPECIAL NEEDS WHILST VISITING THE
BUILDING PLEASE LET RECEPTION KNOW WHEN BOOKING IN.
MANY THANKS
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IN CASE OF FIRE
If you hear the fire alarm ring
Walk out the building by the nearest exit
Do not stop to collect belongings
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Do not use the lift
Meet in the Car Park
Do not go back into the building
until the fire brigade tell you
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Property Maintenance Defect Reporting
Make the area safe as appropriate.
Contact the Property Service Helpdesk 020 8541 9000 – option 6 (out of hours choose option 4)
1 The Fire Service stations to follow the below
During normal office hours: -
Monday to Friday (09:00 – 17:00)
East Area Business Support
01737 224041
West Area Business Support
01483 517277
Headquarters Site 01737 242444
All other times including bank holidays: -
Control 01737 224050
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Recommended