Fire Information 

This information is issued as part of the general safety regulations for people working in all the establishments of Hayfield Support Services with Deaf People.

This information is for staff safety, and also to enable staff to assist the deaf service users to have some instruction in the quickest and most appropriate way of evacuating the building in the event of a fire alarm operation, or in the event of an actual fire.

General

The staff and service users should be able, at all times, to reach a place of safety.  Therefore:

1. The contents (furnishings) of any room in the premises must be arranged in such a manner as to allow any person working in the room a free passage way to a means of escape in event of a fire.

2. All entrance or exit doors should not be locked or fastened in such a way as they cannot be easily and immediately opened from the inside.

3. In the event of a fire, all occupants of the building should have a working knowledge and be able to identify the nearest emergency escape route.

4. All occupants should be made aware of the importance of...

• Keeping fire exit doors free from obstructions inside and outside the building.

• Keeping all doors closed when not in use, particularly fire doors.

• Not opening any door behind which there is a suspected fire.

• Knowing how to open doors fitted with panic bolts.

5. All occupants should be informed that the Alarm Call points are situated near to each fire exit door.

6. All occupants should be made familiar with the means of escape from the building and follow these procedures...

• Operate the nearest alarm.

• Proceed quickly to the designated assembly point.

• Do not delay by collecting coat, jacket, etc.

• Do not re-enter the building until told by the Senior Fire Officer that it is safe to do so.

7. There will require to be a roll call of all persons in the building...

• Staff working with a group or an individual, should know where service users are at all times.  Absences for any reason must be known in order that all persons can be accounted for.

• Tradesmen and visitors should sign the Visitors’ Book in order that they can be accounted for.

8. In the event of a fire, the Fire Brigade is to be informed, Dial 999.  In Moffat Street and Ballater Street, a fire alarm system is connected directly to ADT Security Company, but it is advised to also call 999.

9. Fire Routine notices are posted in all rooms, offices and working areas.  Staff should be aware of these notices.

10. As a matter of policy, all new service users and staff should be shown fire points, exits, and vibrating alarm points.

11. Regular fire drills will take place and must be recorded in the Fire Drill Book.  Staff are expected to work with service users on a regular basis, keeping them informed of the safety procedures.

12. Training will be given by the Health & Safety Consultant to all staff, at least every two years, in the use of Fire Safety Equipment and general Health & Safety.