he outbreak and the spread of fire.
Based on HSE guidance the plan should also provide clear instructions on eliminating or controlling sources of heat, diminish the amount of combustible or flammable materials. The plan should describe measures to: avoid or control sources of ignition; eliminate or minimise combustible or flammable materials; separate sources of heat from fuel; detect fires and raise the alarm; minimise the spread of fire, smoke, or bi-products of fire; and take action on discovering a fire or when a fire alarm is activated.
The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) is concerned about fire safety at work. A Sectoral Group, the Fire Risk Management Group, offers a series of seminars for occupational safety and health professionals on fire safety related issues including: The role of the occupational safety and health professional in dealing with fire safety; dealing with complacency when an evacuation alarm is activated; Risk assessment and emergency action planning; and dealing with the handicapped during a fire evacuation.
For further information email: firstname.lastname@example.org
Even in the most up-to-date health care facility with the most modern fire safety equipment, fires can and do occur. It is essential that fires are prevented and that we do everything that is reasonably practicable to protect ourselves, workers, patients, visitors, contractors and others from the dangers of fire. Empowering the health care professional and other staff with information and training on preventing fires and procedures should a fire occur will help build a culture of fire safety in the organisation. A clearly demonstrated commitment by senior management has also been proven to further strengthen this culture.
Everyone needs to understand the risks of fire and the means to either eliminate the risk or mitigate it to an acceptable level
Dr David Gold, CFIOSH, is vice president of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and former chair of the IOSH Fire Risk Management Group. Neil Vincer, CMIOSH is the current chair.