Fire Safety Arrangements
The University takes Fire Safety very seriously. Fire Risk Assessments for the premises set the standards for fire safety and measures are in place to reduce the risk as far as reasonably practicable. One such measure is to ensure that all staff and students receive basic fire safety training. This document is to address that need.
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 anywhere other than in student accommodation; 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. These are reduced to a minimum and must be kept away from sources of ignition.
Detection of fires in our buildings is almost always achieved by our excellent smoke and heat detection equipment which operates the 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.
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.
Means of escape from 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 should not be used.
Safe Evacuation is vital.
You should pre-plan your escape route from the areas you 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 should contact the Safety Office (Information Desk out of hours) 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.
Fire blankets and Fire extinguishers are sited around the buildings. Fire blankets are ideal to use if a persons clothing catches fire, they should be used to smother flames. Use of extinguishers is not permitted by anyone who has not been trained other than to assist you in making your escape. 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.
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.
Summary
- Prevent fires- care with naked flames, electricity, smoking and cooking.
- Stop the spreading- close doors.
- Know your way out- pre-plan.
If you encounter a fire:
- Shout out
- Get out
- Stay out
Extra items for student residents
If your room detector activates, detectors in other rooms may not. If you are not certain it is a false alarm verbally raise the alarm, evacuate the building and operate a break glass unit. If you are certain it is a false alarm contact the information desk on 2222 to notify them.
Candles are not permitted in rooms. Naked flames, toasters, portable heaters and unsafe electrical equipment are also prohibited. Do not overload plug sockets. Multi point electrical adaptors must not be used for anything other than computer equipment and mobile phone chargers.
Deliberate false alarms or interfering with fire safety equipment are disciplinary offences with severe penalties. They cause serious risk to other people.