Add name of trust / organisation in box 1 and name of trainer in box 2. Delete THIS box

What you will learn in this session 1.The characteristics of fire, smoke and toxic fumes 2.Fire hazards involved in the working environment 3.Significant findings of relevant fire risk assessments 4.Fire prevention 5.Action to take if fire breaks out or smoke is detected 6.Evacuation procedures and escape routes  You will also be expected to take part in practical training sessions

In 2007…….  1,579 fires in hospitals  3 deaths  64 serious injuries Why is this so important?

What is fire?  A chemical reaction producing smoke, heat and flames  Can produce toxic fumes  Will cause disorientation  Will damage property  May cause injury or death

Triangle of Combustion

Fire hazards  Smoking  Flammable liquids, gases and chemicals  Medical oxygen  Electrical items  Clutter  Arson

Smoking  Adhere to your Trust’s Smoking Policy  If smoking is permitted:  Use smoking areas  Use ashtrays and empty into metal bins  Take care that discarded smoking materials are extinguished.

Flammable liquids, gases & chemicals  Everyday cleaning products  Chemicals and gases  C.O.S.H.H.  Flammables should be clearly labelled and stored securely away from heat  Take care with gas cylinders

Medical oxygen  Makes fire WORSE  Always report leaks  Be familiar with how oxygen is supplied and managed  Know how to turn off cylinders or fixed oxygen supply  Store cylinders properly in designated storage areas  Don’t smoke near oxygen!

Electrical equipment  Can be a FIRE HAZARD if in bad condition or used wrongly  Make sure equipment is tested  Look for signs of damage, overheating or not working properly.  If in any doubt, SWITCH OFF, REPORT AND LABEL  Let others know about the fault

Clutter  Acts as fuel for fire  Blocks exits  Increases risk of trips and falls  Disrupts access for fire fighters

Arson  Health care premises are an easy target  Most likely cause of fire in NHS  Be on your guard  Dial (insert specific number)  Consider contacting the police Add telephone number in line 4. Delete THIS box

Insert key findings from local risk assessment in main text box and delete THIS box Risk assessment

Protective measures  Structural fire separation  Fire doors  Fire alarms  Fire signage  Emergency lighting  Fire fighting equipment  Evacuation procedures  Refuges

Actions in the event of fire  Raise the alarm  Tackle the fire only if safe to do so  Evacuate patients to a safe area  Close doors and windows, if safe  Await further information from attending fire team

Local knowledge  Where are the escape routes?  Where is the safe refuge?  How will the patients be moved?  What are the security arrangements?  Where are the fire alarm call points?  The type of alarm signal?  When are alarm test days?

Don’t forget about…  Disabled colleagues  Patients and visitors  Alternative ways out  Switching equipment off if necessary and safe  Closing windows and doors

Remember to…  Report hazards  Raise the alarm  Know your means of escape  Ensure personal safety

THANK YOU Any Questions? Insert trainer’s name, telephone number and here Replace text in above box with trainer’s name and contact details. Delete THIS box