Fire safety
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2006 places emphasis on life safety. It requires that we have suitable and sufficient Fire Risk Assessments for the premises which set the standards for fire safety. As with any other risk assessment the hazards (causes of fires) are identified. The level of risk is then decided by considering the likelihood of a fire occurring and the potential effects if it does. Measures are in place to reduce the risk as far as reasonably practicable.
The same process would improve fire safety in the home. Details of the significant findings of the assessments are available, on request, from the Fire Officer. One such finding is the requirement for all staff and students to receive this basic fire safety training.
Fire hazards are the potential sources of ignition and must be controlled. Naked flames should be avoided where possible. Electrical and heating equipment must be regularly checked and tested. Private portable electrical equipment must be submitted for testing before use at the University, private heaters and toasters are not permitted. Smoking is banned in most buildings; smoking materials should be disposed of safely in permitted areas. Precautions are taken when using hot processes such as welding etc. Measures are in place to reduce the risk of arson.
The size of a fire will depend on the available fuel, the stage at which it discovered, how much it can spread and when it is extinguished. The fuel available may include the flammable structure of buildings, combustible materials and furniture, flammable liquids and gas. Obviously these should be reduced to a minimum and kept away from sources of ignition as much as possible.
Detection of fires in our buildings is achieved with excellent smoke and heat detection equipment combined with an alarm system. If you discover a fire do not attempt to fight it. It is University policy that you should not attempt to extinguish fires unless specifically trained. You are more valuable than the property; do not put yourself at risk.
Raise the alarm verbally and operate the fire alarm by using the red break glass call points on your way out.
Fire blankets and Fire extinguishers are sited around the buildings. Use of extinguishers is not permitted by anyone who has not been trained other than to assist you in making your escape. Fire blankets are ideal to use if a persons clothing catches fire, they should be used to smother flames. Extinguishers are only effective on very small fires and you must use the right one for the type of fire. Instructions for their use and suitability for different fires are often printed on them or on signs by them. If you intend to use them elsewhere ensure you have the correct type and know how to operate them.
Means of escapefrom a fire are a very important precaution. Escape routes are indicated by green running man arrow and exit signs, (a wheelchair symbol for disabled persons). These signs indicate the shortest routes from any point. Corridors and staircases are constructed to be protected from fire and are provided with emergency lighting in case normal lighting fails. It is important that doors are closed to preserve the protection. Lifts are not usually protected and may fail if the electrical supply is affected so should not be used.
Safe Evacuation is obviously vital. You should pre-plan your escape route from the areas you normally use, this is equally important when working elsewhere, in your homes and especially on foreign holidays. Evacuate as soon as you hear the alarm, do not delay to complete work, collect belongings etc. Turn off equipment which will otherwise be unsafe. Close the door behind you. Do not run, it can cause panic and injury. If unsure of your route follow the green fire exit signs. Should the route be blocked turn around and follow the signs in another direction. If you cannot escape the area go somewhere safe as far away from the fire as you can and preferably on a lower floor. Most rooms in the University will provide protection for at least an hour, staircase enclosures for two. Dial 2222 on a University phone to alert the patrol staff. Do not panic.
Wait at the assembly point, do not congregate in doorways as the Fire Service may need to use them. Do not re-enter the building until authorised by the Patrol Staff. Note that the sounders will often be silenced before it is safe to re-enter. Never enter any area where red flashing lights are operating.
Failure to evacuate is a disciplinary offence. Such failure can put the Evacuation Stewards, Patrol Staff and Fire Service personnel at risk and allow fires to develop further.
People who may have difficulty with stairs may need your assistance. Disabled staff and students should have specific arrangements you may be able to help with. If you have a visitor who may have difficulty you must contact the Information Desk for advice prior to, or on, their arrival. If you suffer a temporary or permanent condition causing difficulty using stairs please contact the University Fire Officer.
The potential spread of a fire is controlled by the nature of the internal structure of a building, the closing of doors and windows. Most of our rooms will contain a fire for at least thirty minutes if the doors are shut. Please ensure you shut doors behind you on your way out. It is also good practice to close all your doors at home, especially at night.
The fire service will be summoned whenever a fire is discovered or suspected. This is automatic via the alarm system but you should use the nearest telephone in a safe place to call 2222 if you are in any doubt.
In short, if you encounter a fire:
- Shout out
- Get out
- Stay out