1. Introduction
Coast Medic Ambulance Ltd is committed to ensuring the safety of all employees, patients, visitors, and contractors by maintaining high standards of fire safety. This policy outlines the procedures and responsibilities for preventing, responding to, and managing fire incidents within our facilities and during ambulance operations.
2. Objectives
To prevent the occurrence of fire incidents.
To ensure the safety of all individuals in the event of a fire.
To comply with relevant fire safety legislation and regulations.
To provide clear instructions and training for fire prevention and emergency response.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, patients, and visitors at Coast Medic Ambulance Ltd facilities, as well as during ambulance operations.
4. Legal and Regulatory Framework
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
Care Quality Commission (CQC) Regulations
Local fire safety regulations and guidelines
5. Responsibilities
Management
- Ensure compliance with fire safety legislation and regulations.
- Conduct regular fire risk assessments and reviews.
- Provide adequate fire safety training and information to employees.
- Maintain and inspect fire safety equipment and systems.
- Develop and implement fire emergency procedures.
Employees
- Follow fire safety procedures and protocols.
- Participate in fire safety training and drills.
- Report any fire hazards or safety concerns to management.
- Ensure that fire exits and escape routes are kept clear and accessible.
- Use fire safety equipment correctly and responsibly.
Fire Safety Officer
- Oversee fire safety practices and compliance within the organization.
- Conduct regular fire risk assessments and audits.
- Coordinate fire safety training and drills.
- Ensure fire safety equipment is maintained and functional.
- Liaise with local fire authorities and emergency services.
6. Fire Prevention Measures
- Ensure that all electrical equipment is regularly inspected and maintained.
- Avoid the use of unauthorized electrical devices and overloading of power outlets.
- Store flammable materials safely and away from heat sources.
- Implement a no-smoking policy within all facilities and vehicles.
- Maintain good housekeeping practices to reduce fire risks.
7. Fire Safety Equipment
Fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and other fire suppression devices must be readily available and regularly inspected.
Smoke detectors and fire alarms must be installed, maintained, and tested regularly.
Fire exits and escape routes must be clearly marked and free from obstructions.
Emergency lighting must be installed and maintained in accordance with regulations.
8. Emergency Procedures
In the Event of a Fire
Raise the Alarm:
Activate the nearest fire alarm call point.
Notify others in the vicinity of the fire.
Evacuate:
Follow the designated evacuation routes.
Do not use lifts or elevators.
Assist those with disabilities or mobility issues.
Contain the Fire:
If safe to do so, close doors and windows to contain the fire.
Use fire extinguishers or fire blankets to extinguish small fires, if trained and safe to do so.
Assemble:
Proceed to the designated assembly point.
Do not re-enter the building until instructed by the Fire Safety Officer or emergency services.
Inform Emergency Services:
Call 999 and provide details of the fire, including location, type, and any known hazards.
Fire Drills
Conduct regular fire drills at least twice a year.
Ensure all employees participate in fire drills and understand their roles and responsibilities.
Review and improve evacuation procedures based on drill outcomes.
9. Training
Provide initial and ongoing fire safety training to all employees.
Include fire prevention, use of fire safety equipment, and emergency evacuation procedures in training programs.
Maintain records of all fire safety training sessions.
10. Monitoring and Review
Conduct regular fire risk assessments and reviews.
Monitor the effectiveness of fire safety measures and procedures.
Review and update this policy annually or in response to significant changes in regulations or operations.