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

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

4. 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

5. Triangle of Combustion

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

7. 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.

8. 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

9. 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!

10. 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

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

12. 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

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

14. 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

15. 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?

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

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

18. THANK YOU
Any Questions?