Coronavirus return to work phase

As a Fire and Rescue Service we are very aware of the additional pressures and challenges that we are all facing currently.

We would like to reassure you that we are here to help. We’ve provided some guidance below that we hope you find helpful. In addition, there’s lots of advice on our website. If you have any specific queries or concerns,
there is also the facility to ask a question via the website.

Fire Risk Assessment review.
o You must you review your fire risk assessment to ensure you keep everyone safe from fire! Consider changes made for social distancing and changes to staffing levels.

General housekeeping/management of risk (electrical, cooking, laundry etc).
o The best way to stay safe from fire is to avoid having one in the first place. Simple actions to reduce the risk of fire in your business could include:
o Switch off electrical appliances when not in use
o Ensure good housekeeping
o Have a safe smoking policy
o Reduce the storage of combustible items
o Restrict the use of portable heaters.
o Ensure electrical sockets are not overloaded and portable items are PAT tested

Importance of a working fire alarm and other fire safety provisions.
o Test your fire alarm now and then weekly. Does the panel show healthy? Check your emergency lighting and extinguishers. These checks should be recorded.
o Don’t forget about annual engineer’s checks which may be due or out of date.

Evacuation procedures and staff training/awareness.
o Have social distancing measures affected escape routes? Do you have one-way systems in place restricting escape? Are doors held open?
o You must think about what you will do in the event of a fire.
o Make sure that all staff, including temporary workers, are familiar with actions to take in the event of fire.
o Staff must be reminded of basic fire awareness and the need to reduce risks wherever possible.

Importance of keeping fire doors shut.
o Fire doors are crucial for keeping fire contained to the room of origin.
o keep fire doors shut and you will stop fire and smoke spreading through your building allowing you time for your occupants to escape.