Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) FIRE SAFETY & EVACUATION | Scribe

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) FIRE SAFETY & EVACUATION

    Table of Contents

    1. Purpose

    2. Scope

    3. Responsibilities

    4. Fire Prevention Measures

    5. Fire Detection and Alarm

    6. Evacuation Procedure

    7. Use of Fire Extinguishers

    8. Assembly Point & Roll Call

    9. Post-Evacuation Actions

    10. Training & Drills

    11. Records & Documentation

    Version: 1 Effective Date: 8th August 2025

    A pdf detailing Fire Escape Routes, Exits & Fire Assembly Point is available to download here:
    https://bit.ly/Fire-Escape-Routes-and-Assembly-Point

    1. Purpose

    To ensure the safety of all personnel, visitors, and property in the event of a fire, and to establish a clear procedure for evacuation and emergency response.

    2. Scope

    This SOP applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors within the premises at any given time.

    3. Responsibilities

    3.1 Management

    • Ensure all staff are trained in fire safety and evacuation procedures.

    • Maintain all fire detection and suppression systems in working order.

    • Conduct regular fire drills at least twice a year.

    • Keep evacuation routes clear and signage visible at all times.

    3.2 Fire Warden(s)

    • Lead the evacuation process and guide people to the assembly point.

    • Check all rooms, restrooms, and storage areas where it is safe to do so.

    • Account for all employees and visitors at the assembly point.

    • Report missing persons to the Fire & Rescue Service immediately.

    3.3 All Employees

    • Familiarise themselves with the location of fire exits, fire alarms, and extinguishers.

    • Follow evacuation instructions without delay or deviation.

    • Report any fire hazards or faulty fire equipment to management immediately.

    4. Fire Prevention Measures

    • No smoking inside the premises.

    • Keep flammable materials stored in designated areas.

    • Do not block fire exits, alarm points, or extinguishers.

    • Switch off electrical equipment when not in use.

    • Conduct regular safety checks of machinery and wiring.

    5. Fire Detection and Alarm

    • The building is equipped with smoke detectors, manual call points, and alarm sounders.

    • In the event of fire detection:

    • Activate the nearest fire alarm call point.

    • Call 999 and state:

      • Nature of the emergency.

      • Exact address of the premises.

      • Any known hazards (e.g., chemicals, gas cylinders).

      • Number of people on-site.

    6. Evacuation Procedure

    • Raise the alarm – activate the nearest call point.

    • Evacuate immediately using the nearest safe exit. Do not use lifts.

    • Do not collect personal belongings.

    • Assist visitors and those requiring help.

    • Proceed directly to the assembly point (located at Outside Bins).

    • Do not re-enter the building until authorised by the Fire & Rescue Service.

    7. Use of Fire Extinguishers

    • Only trained personnel may attempt to extinguish a small fire, and only if:

      • It is safe to do so.

      • There is a clear escape route.

    • Types of extinguishers and uses:

      • Water – Paper, wood, textiles.

      • Foam – Flammable liquids, solids.

      • CO₂ – Electrical fires, flammable liquids.

      • Dry Powder – Most fire types including electrical.

    8. Assembly Point & Roll Call

    • Assembly Point Location: [Insert Location – e.g., Car Park, far end near Main Gate].

    • Fire Warden conducts a roll call using:

      • Staff attendance register.

      • Visitor sign-in book.

    • Report any missing persons immediately to the Fire & Rescue Service.

    9. Post-Evacuation Actions

    • Fire Warden and management liaise with the Fire & Rescue Service.

    • Do not re-enter until given the all-clear by the fire authorities.

    • Incident report to be completed within 24 hours.

    10. Training & Drills

    • Induction training on fire safety for all new employees.

    • Biannual fire drills documented and reviewed.

    • Refresher training on extinguisher use annually.

    11. Records & Documentation

    • Fire drill logs.

    • Fire equipment inspection records.

    • Training attendance sheets.

    • Fire incident reports.