Fire (Code Red)

All employees should be familiar with the disaster plans to assist in a safe evacuation in the event of a fire. This includes the following steps:

1.  If a fire occurs in your area, quickly evacuate all individuals who are in immediate danger. All office exits are marked and illuminated. Building exits are also marked and illuminated.

2.  Keep all corridors clear of any equipment, supplies, or debris.

3.  Ensure fire exits are never obstructed or blocked.

4.  Close the door to prevent the fire from spreading.

5.  If the fire is minor, do the following:

•      Use the fire extinguisher to put it out. Minor fires are defined as fires that are localized to a small corner or table, and do not present an immediate danger of spreading. The fire extinguisher can be used to put out fires associated with paper, drapes, computer equipment, wiring, wood, oil, paint, gasoline, and solvents. Do not attempt to extinguish a fire that is moving and/or growing.

•      Once the fire is successfully extinguished, the Office Lead contacts the Fire Department to notify them of the incident.

6.  If the fire is moving or spreading rapidly, do the following:

•      The person finding the fire is responsible for assigning an individual to notify the staff of the fire and to call the Fire Department and/or activate the nearest fire alarm.

•      If it is possible to do so safely, remove oxygen containers.

•      All individuals evacuate the building through the main entrance into the parking lot in accordance with the evacuation policy. Employees assist any non-ambulatory or elderly patients upon evacuation. Do not use the elevators for evacuation. Non-ambulatory or elderly patients should be assisted in the stairwell by employees.

•      Upon evacuation, the front desk staff position themselves outside all entrances into the building to prevent anyone from entering.

•      The Office Lead takes a formal count of all personnel to determine if all employees have evacuated.

•      Do not re-enter the building under any circumstances, unless cleared to do so by the Fire Department.

Prevention Reminders

•      Electrical cords and plugs should be routinely checked for fraying.

•      Turn off all electrical equipment, such as the coffee pot, before leaving for the day.

Fire Safety Policy

The fire safety policy of this office is to act in a manner to preserve lives and prevent panic and the spread of fire. All employees must be aware of and receive training regarding:

•      Proper fire safety procedures.

•      Fire exits.

•      Fire extinguishers (and sprinkler system).

•      Fire zones and applicable space requirements.

•      Staff member requirements and responsibilities.

•      Steps to take in the event of fire.

•      Containment of fire and smoke.

Staff is not expected to take any actions that may endanger his or her life. To ensure the safety of patients and staff, the office maintains the following requirements:

1.  All employees participate in an annual fire extinguisher training class.

2.  A record of individual training is to be maintained in the personnel files.

3.  Fire drills are conducted by building management at least twice a year. Both morning and afternoon shifts participate in fire drills to:

•      Maintain sufficient exposure to procedures for responding to fire, including office and building exits.

•      Practice to avoid panic under emergency circumstances.

•      Complete fire safety education training.

4.  The office conducts or arranges for appropriate in-service training of office personnel on fire safety and prevention topics.

Fire Extinguishers/Sprinkler System Policy

The office/building maintains fire extinguishers / a sprinkler system to use in case of fire. All extinguishers are inspected on a routine basis to assure good working condition. The office conducts or arranges for an annual training session regarding the location and use of fire extinguishers.

Fire Prevention Policy

The office maintains and trains all employees in basic office fire prevention procedures, including the following:

•      All office exits are marked and illuminated. Building exits are also marked and illuminated.

•      All corridors must be kept clear from equipment and supplies.

•      Fire exits must not be obstructed or blocked at any time.

•      Electric cords and plugs must be routinely checked for fraying.

•      All machines in the staff lounge, such as coffee machines, are turned off at the end of the day.