A Fire Drill is a process of practicing how to evacuate a building in case of fire or any other emergency. Usually, the emergency system (e.g. fire alarm/smoke detector) sounds. The building is evacuated as though a real fire has occurred. This is a Fire Drill preparedness check that premises should conduct on a traceable basis.
What is the purpose of the Fire Drill?
- To ensure that everyone in a building is aware of how to get out of it in the quickest and safest way possible in case of emergency.
- To identify any weaknesses in the evacuation strategy; weaknesses in emergency communications procedures and systems
- To test the procedure following any alteration or workplace practices changes
- To familiarize new occupants with procedures
- To test the arrangements for disabled people
- To identify positive and negative reactions of staff to emergency response
Planning is essential before any Fire Drill.
- Determine the Assembly Area.
- Determine if the evacuation route, exit doors, and emergency staircases are not obstructed.
- Ensure commands and evacuation orders for building occupants are prepared before an evacuation/fire drill starts.
- Determine the types of buildings: (one/multiple departments? single/multiple-storey or constructed with fire-resistant materials)
- Determine the occupants of the Building (number, location, physical conditions. The responses expected from the occupants in emergency situations.)
Procedures for a fire drill
All building occupants should participate in an evacuation/fire drill with the observation of skilled persons, especially, from the fire department.
- Circulate details concerning the drill to inform all people of their duty to participate. 'Surprise drills' may pose a health and safety risk.
- Inform visitors and members of the public if they are present.
- Co-ordinate the fire alarm drill with any other building occupants / departments. Their awareness of the drill will prevent cases of causing panic and disruption in their premises.
- Check external stairs and routes to ensure that there are no hazards or conditions that may cause an accident.eg, damage to steps, rubbish, obstructions or rough sleepers. The cleanliness & checks of escape routes should be undertaken on a regular basis.
- Ensure lifts are not used in the event of a fire with exception of designated evacuation lifts operated by trained personnel;
- Nominate 'observers' who should block main routes off (as if affected by fire) so occupants have to use the 'alternative escape routes.' This helps occupants familiarise themselves with those rarely used routes to encourage escape via the nearest available exit instead of using the everyday way.
- Ask a member of staff, at random, to set off the alarm by operating the nearest alarm call point using the test key. This will indicate the level of knowledge regarding the location of the nearest call point.
- Ensure fire marshals direct occupants to the assembly point and provide control where there is road traffic etc.
Importance of a Fire Drill
It helps prepare employees for emergency and pin-point challenges they may face in an evacuation; inappropriate actions, e.g. stopping to collect personal items, attempting to use lifts. Helps train every personnel involved about their role of assisting disabled people during emergency evacuations. Activities conducted during evacuation/fire drill activities are recorded and documented. It helps premises check the effectiveness of their evacuation plans. Problems with the emergency system or evacuation procedures are identified and improved.
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