Emergency procedure
PEER Construction is committed to adequately planning for, and effectively managing emergency situations in all our worksites. We aim to minimise the impact of emergency situations on our business by ensuring the safety of our employees, contractors, apprentices, visitors, customers, and facilities.
An emergency is any unplanned event that arises that may adversely affect our people, visitors or the community generally, and that requires an immediate response.
Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to provide guidance on the planning and management of emergencies across all locations owned and operated by PEER Construction.
Emergency Management Plan (EMP)
Emergency Management Plan is a documented plan that details procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency.
In the event of a fire or other emergency requiring evacuation all employees, contractors, apprentices, and visitors should be evacuated and assemble at the emergency assembly point on Port Road.
The emergency warden will:
- contact the fire department (or other relevant emergency service) on 000 and inform them of the type and location of the emergency
- ensure all employees, contractors, apprentices, and visitors are accounted for
- in the event of other emergency situations, contact the appropriate agency to deal with the situation.
Note: where quantities of substances exceed Schedule 11 – Placard and manifest quantities of hazardous chemicals a separate EMP must be developed and reviewed by Emergency Services.
Process
The process has the following components.
Evacuation diagrams
A map of the location is displayed throughout the organisation, showing exits, exit routes, fire extinguishers and emergency evacuation points. All employees will be shown this information at induction and it will be discussed regularly at toolbox meetings.
Every location should have an evacuation map, below is an example at PEER (Albert Park).
Evacuation exercises and drills
Evacuation drills will be conducted annually. An evaluation will be conducted after an evacuation exercise to determine the effectiveness of the procedure. Any deficiencies identified will be addressed by reviewing and amending procedures where required.
Emergency warden
At least one person preferably more will be trained as an emergency warden. This training requires knowledge of managing an emergency and appropriate use of fire extinguishers. Refresher training should be completed annually. The name of the emergency warden will be displayed, and they will be recognised by wearing a white hat during an emergency.
Roles and responsibilities
The following roles and responsibilities apply.
Managers and supervisors
- Implement an emergency management plan that covers all worksites.
- Appoint an emergency warden to cover their worksite in the event of an emergency and ensure they receive appropriate training.
- Ensure employees are aware of emergency procedures and receive the appropriate information and training.
- Ensure first line fighting equipment is checked and tagged every six months, fire exits and emergency equipment is kept clear and signage is maintained in good working order.
Employees
- Follow emergency procedures.
- Activate the fire alarm system on the way out (if the emergency is a fire and if not already activated).
- Move calmly to the nominated evacuation assembly area and not leave the evacuation assembly area until the all clear has been given.
- Assist any person in immediate danger, if safe to do so.
- Assist with the evacuation of disabled occupants.
- Comply with instructions from the emergency warden and emergency response personnel.
Fire safety equipment
All first line firefighting equipment must be tagged and checked every 6 months. The emergency warden will ensure the fire safety equipment is relevant to the hazards in the workplace.
Employees must only use a fire blanket or fire extinguisher within the first few seconds of ignition if they are confident to do so or have the appropriate training.
Fire extinguishers
Water fire extinguishers are designed to be used where the main hazard is wood, paper, textiles and rubbish.
Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers work by reducing the concentration of oxygen in the air to the level where combustion can no longer occur. They are most suitable for use on fires involving live electrical appliances such as switchboards, electric motors and electronic equipment. They can also be used on small flammable liquid fires, such as petrol, paint and solvents.
Foam fire extinguishers are designed to be used on A&B flammable liquids such as petrol, paint and solvents. They are not suitable for use on electrical fires.
Powder type fire extinguishers are available in a variety of powders to cover a wide range of risks. The extinguishing agents are safe, non-toxic and non-conductive. Dry chemical powder is extremely effective when used to extinguish flammable liquid and energised electrical equipment.
Using fire safety equipment - fire extinguisher
There are four (4) basic steps for using modern portable fire extinguishers.
The acronym PASS is used to describe these four basic steps.
- Pull (Pin): pull pin at the top of the extinguisher, breaking the seal. When in place, the pin keeps the handle from being pressed and accidentally operating the extinguisher. Immediately test the extinguisher (aiming away from the operator). This is to ensure the extinguisher works and shows the operator how far the stream travels.
- Aim: approach the fire standing at a safe distance. Aim the nozzle or outlet towards the base of the fire.
- Squeeze: squeeze the handles together to discharge the extinguishing agent inside. To stop discharge, release the handles.
- Sweep: sweep the nozzle from side to side as you approach the fire, directing the extinguishing agent at the base of the flames. After an A Class fire is extinguished, probe for smouldering hot spots that could reignite the fuel.
Using fire safety equipment - fire blanket
- Refer to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Pull down sharply on the tabs hanging from the bottom of the package to release the fire blanket.
- Hold it in front of you, with the fabric rolled back at the edges to protect your hands.
- Place (not throw) fire blankets over the fire, keeping hands and face protected behind it.
- Lay the blanket gently over the fire. Do not throw the bottom of the blanket onto the far side of the fire as flames can then run up the blanket to your hands.
- Ensure the fire is extinguished before removing the blanket.
Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (SA)
Work Health and Safety Regulations 2012 (SA)
Managing the work environment and facilities – Code of Practice 2018
Equal Opportunity Act 1984
Environment Protection Act 1993
WHS policies and procedures
Version 1.0 – Last updated 19/2/2022