Fire safety and prevention policy template

Overview

This Fire Safety and Prevention Policy outlines the measures and responsibilities necessary to prevent fire-related incidents and ensure the safety of all employees, visitors, and contractors within the workplace. The policy aims to minimize fire risks through regular maintenance, employee training, and adherence to fire safety regulations, thereby creating a secure and compliant work environment.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, visitors, and any other individuals present on company premises. It encompasses all company-owned or leased buildings and vehicles, and includes guidelines for fire prevention, emergency response procedures, the use of fire safety equipment, regular fire drills, and mandatory compliance with relevant fire safety laws and standards.

General Principles

Introduction and Aims

At [Company Name], our foremost priority is to safeguard the well-being of our employees by minimising fire-related risks. This is achieved through robust measures to prevent fires and effective procedures for minimising fire outbreaks and safely evacuating the premises.

Fire Safety Management

Key duties include:

• Conducting regular risk assessments to minimise fire hazards.

• Ensuring comprehensive staff training on fire safety procedures.

• Developing an emergency plan and prominently displaying fire notices.

• Conducting routine fire drills.

• Checking and maintaining fire-fighting apparatus.

• Implementing recommendations from the Fire Risk Assessment.

• Regular consultations with the Fire Risk Assessment officer for safety matters.

• Conducting routine fire safety inspections and documenting findings.

• Periodic informal checks to bolster safety measures.

• Ensuring unobstructed and functional fire escape routes and exit doors.

• Regular checks and maintenance of fire detection and protection systems.

• Maintenance of an updated Fire Safety Log Book.

Fire Procedures

Clear fire procedure notices are displayed at strategic points. Responsibilities and persons accountable for fire safety will be detailed.

Fire Safety Training

• All staff undergo comprehensive internal fire safety training covering various safety aspects and evacuation procedures every three years.

• Regular practical fire extinguisher training provided.

• New staff receive comprehensive fire policy and training as part of their induction.

Fire Risk Assessment Appraisal

Annual Fire Risk Assessments are conducted and findings recorded in an Action Plan for prioritised resolution. Any unactionable risks are mitigated as per Health & Safety procedures.

Evacuation Drills

Emergency evacuation procedures are prominently displayed, and drills occur every six months. Unplanned and planned drills ensure familiarity with procedures among all staff.

Staff Roles in Evacuation Alarm

Specific roles for evacuation, calling emergency services, and assembly are delegated. All staff assemble at the designated point, with immediate headcounts and reporting of absentees.

Fire Doors & Exits

Proper management of fire doors and exits is crucial. Systems are in place to ensure doors remain unobstructed and functional during emergencies.

Follow-up to Evacuation Drills

Drill timings and feedback are recorded, with regular monitoring and checks conducted by designated personnel.

Preventive Measures

• Electrical Safety: Employees are required to inspect electrical appliances before use to ensure cables, plugs, and equipment are undamaged. Damaged equipment should be reported immediately, and alternative appliances sought.

• Waste Disposal: Dispose of rubbish in designated bins without overfilling, ensuring accessibility for cleaners at the end of each day.

Fire Alarm Protocol

• Evacuation Procedure:

  • When the fire alarm sounds, immediately cease activities and calmly walk (do not run) to the nearest safe fire exit. If obstructed, choose an alternative route.

  • Be familiar with fire exits and routes within your area.

  • Follow instructions from designated Fire Wardens.

  • Directional signs, marked with a white arrow on a green background, guide towards fire exits.

  • Use stairs for evacuation; do not use lifts.

  • Assemble at the designated meeting point and report to the Fire Warden for accountability.

  • Do not re-enter the building until authorised by the Fire Warden.

Discovering a Fire

• Alarm Activation:

  • If a fire is discovered, immediately activate the alarm by breaking the glass on call points or shouting "Fire - call the fire brigade."

  • Raise the alarm even if an automatic system is present but not yet activated.

  • Promptly call the fire brigade and do not attempt to combat the fire unless appropriately trained.

Disabled Persons

Plans for assisting individuals during evacuations are outlined in Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs). A Generic Emergency Evacuation Plan (GEEP) is also in place for unfamiliar occupants.

Security Measures

• Regular checks will be conducted to ensure fire exits remain unobstructed, and all fire safety equipment is in working order.

Maintenance of Fire Equipment & Systems

Fire extinguishers, fire alarm systems and emergency lighting are maintained by professional consultants. Staff will also carry out the routine tests on the systems and precautions as detailed below (Frequency of testing).

Fire Equipment Testing Schedule

• Fire Alarm

  • Weekly: Visual inspection of the panel for fault indications.

  • Weekly: Testing key operation of different call points on a rotational basis.

  • At least every six months: Servicing and battery test.

• Doors

  • Daily: Confirmation that all internal and external doors open or close as required and are free from obstruction.

• Emergency Lighting

  • Monthly: Function test involving momentary operation of the test switch or circuit breaker.

  • Annually: Discharge test by switching on and leaving the lights for the duration of the battery life, typically an hour or three hours.

• Fire Extinguishers and Fire Blankets

  • Weekly: Check for intact seals and ensure equipment has not been tampered with or removed.

  • Annually (every five years): Service and extended service of fire extinguishers.

Policy Review

This policy undergoes periodic review to ensure ongoing effectiveness and compliance with safety standards.