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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Flood and Floods Management and Safety Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} is fully prepared to manage and respond to flood risks, minimising disruption to care services and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents, staff, and visitors. This policy sets out preventative measures, emergency response protocols, and recovery strategies in line with the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, CIW regulations, and local authority flood risk management guidance.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, residents, contractors, and visitors at {{org_field_name}}. It covers:

• Identification and assessment of flood risks.
• Preventative and protective measures to reduce flood impact.
• Emergency procedures in the event of a flood.
• Responsibilities of staff in flood prevention and response.
• Training and awareness to ensure effective flood management.
• Post-flood recovery and continuity planning.

3. Identifying and Assessing Flood Risks

• Flood Risk Assessment:
  • Regular assessments of the premises are conducted to identify flood risks.
  • Monitoring of nearby rivers, drainage systems, and flood-prone areas.
• Early Warning Systems:
  • Subscription to local flood warning alerts from Natural Resources Wales.
  • Designated staff to monitor weather forecasts and flood risk updates.
• Infrastructure Vulnerability Checks:
  • Routine inspection of drainage systems to prevent blockages.
  • Assessment of low-lying areas susceptible to water accumulation.

4. Preventative and Protective Measures

• Building Adaptations:
  • Installation of flood barriers, sandbags, and water-resistant doors where necessary.
  • Sealing entry points such as air bricks and service ducts to prevent water ingress.
• Drainage and Water Management:
  • Regular clearing of gutters, drains, and external channels to improve water flow.
  • Maintenance of pumps and sump systems in flood-prone areas.
• Resident Safety Preparations:
  • Ensuring residents with mobility issues have access to safe areas during flooding.
  • Stocking emergency supplies such as bottled water, non-perishable food, and blankets.

5. Emergency Procedures During a Flood

• Activation of Flood Response Plan:
  • The designated flood response team will be activated when flood warnings are received.
  • Implementation of pre-planned measures such as moving critical equipment and securing valuables.
• Resident Evacuation Plans:
  • Individual emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs) for residents requiring assistance.
  • Safe evacuation routes identified and communicated to all staff.
• Communication Strategy:
  • Immediate notification of emergency services and local authorities.
  • Regular updates provided to families, staff, and external stakeholders.
  • Use of alternative communication channels (text alerts, emergency radio, and loudspeakers).

6. Staff Responsibilities in Flood Management

• Management Team:
  • Overseeing implementation of the flood response plan.
  • Liaising with emergency services and local flood authorities.
• Designated Flood Response Team:
  • Monitoring flood alerts and coordinating staff actions.
  • Managing emergency evacuation and relocation procedures.
• All Staff:
  • Assisting residents in evacuation and relocation.
  • Ensuring personal safety while responding to flood situations.
  • Documenting all actions taken during the flood event.

7. Staff Training and Awareness

• Mandatory Flood Preparedness Training:
  • All staff undergo training on flood risk management, emergency procedures, and evacuation protocols.
  • Annual refresher training provided to maintain preparedness.
• Regular Flood Drills:
  • Scheduled simulations to test emergency response effectiveness.
  • Evaluation of drill outcomes to improve response measures.
• Resident Awareness Sessions:
  • Informing residents about flood risks and safety measures.
  • Providing guidance on emergency actions they may need to take.

8. Post-Flood Recovery and Business Continuity

• Damage Assessment and Repairs:
  • Structural assessment of the premises to identify necessary repairs.
  • Rapid response contractors engaged for cleaning and sanitation.
• Health and Safety Checks:
  • Inspection of water supply, electrical systems, and contamination risks before reoccupation.
  • Infection control measures implemented where needed.
• Service Continuity Planning:
  • Relocation strategies in case of prolonged displacement.
  • Coordination with local authorities for temporary accommodation and support.
  • Review and update of flood management strategies based on lessons learned.

9. Compliance and Monitoring

• Regular Audits and Inspections:
  • Scheduled reviews of flood preparedness measures and infrastructure.
  • Reporting of compliance levels to CIW and local authority flood risk teams.
• CIW Compliance Checks:
  • Ensuring the care home’s flood response measures align with regulatory standards.
  • Demonstrating compliance through documentation and incident records.
• Continuous Improvement:
  • Feedback collection from staff and residents on flood response effectiveness.
  • Updates to policies and procedures based on audit findings and new regulations.

10. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• CHW16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
• CHW35 – Risk Assessment and Management Policy
• CHW39 – Emergency Planning and Incident Response Policy
• CHW42 – Communication and Engagement with Service Users and Families Policy

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, regulatory requirements, or organisational needs. Any updates will be communicated to all staff through training sessions and policy briefings to ensure compliance and best practice adherence.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.