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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}} has robust procedures in place to manage and mitigate flood risks, safeguard people we support, staff, and property, and comply with CQC regulations, Health and Safety laws, and local authority guidelines. This policy outlines preventive measures, emergency response actions, and recovery procedures to ensure the safety and continuity of care services during flooding incidents.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all {{org_field_name}} premises, staff, and people we support, covering:

• Risk assessment and flood prevention measures.
• Emergency response procedures in the event of a flood.
• Evacuation plans and relocation strategies.
• Business continuity planning to maintain care services.
• Staff training and awareness programs.
• Compliance with regulatory requirements and insurance provisions.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy aligns with:

• Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 – Ensures safe premises and emergency preparedness.
• CQC Regulation 15 – Premises and Equipment – Requires providers to ensure premises are safe and fit for purpose.
• CQC Regulation 12 – Safe Care and Treatment – Ensures providers assess and mitigate risks, including flooding.
• Civil Contingencies Act 2004 – Mandates emergency planning and response procedures.
• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Requires employers to assess environmental risks, including flood hazards.
• The Flood and Water Management Act 2010 – Governs flood risk management responsibilities.

4. Related Policies

This policy is linked to other emergency and risk management policies within {{org_field_name}}, including:

• CH18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• CH19 – Emergency and Business Continuity Plan
• CH16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
• CH20 – Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures
• CH25 – Notification of Other Incidents Policy

5. Policy Statement

{{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of people we support and staff by implementing effective flood risk management strategies. Our aims include:

• Identifying and mitigating flood risks before incidents occur.
• Implementing clear emergency response procedures.
• Ensuring minimal disruption to care services during floods.
• Protecting property, assets, and essential records.
• Complying with local authority and CQC emergency preparedness requirements.

6. Flood Risk Assessment and Prevention

• Site-Specific Risk Assessments – Regular evaluations of flood risk levels based on location, drainage systems, and weather patterns.
• Preventive Measures:
  • Installing flood barriers or sandbags where applicable.
  • Ensuring proper drainage and maintenance of gutters and downpipes.
  • Raising electrical sockets and equipment above potential flood levels.
  • Identifying high-risk zones within the premises and taking protective action.
• Collaboration with Local Authorities – Engaging with flood risk management agencies for up-to-date information and advice.

7. Emergency Response Plan

a. Activation of Flood Response Team

• Designated Flood Coordinator – A named staff member responsible for coordinating the response.
• Early Warning System – Monitoring Environment Agency flood alerts and weather forecasts.

b. Immediate Actions During a Flood Warning

• Informing staff and activating emergency protocols.
• Relocating people we support to safer areas if needed.
• Securing medical equipment, medication, and essential supplies.
• Switching off electricity, gas, and water supplies if safe to do so.
• Communicating with emergency services and local authorities for support.

c. Evacuation Procedures

• Evacuation Plan – Detailed plans outlining:
  • Routes for safe evacuation.
  • Transport arrangements for relocating people we support.
  • Procedures for maintaining care during evacuation.
• Emergency Accommodation – Agreements with local authorities or alternative care homes for temporary housing if required.

8. Business Continuity Planning

• Alternative Power Sources – Ensuring backup generators or power supplies are available.
• Communication Plan – Keeping staff, families, and relevant authorities informed during and after a flood.
• Data Protection Measures – Securing important documents and electronic health records to prevent loss.
• Post-Flood Recovery Plan – Procedures for cleaning, repairing damage, and safely reopening the premises.

9. Staff Training and Awareness

• Flood Preparedness Training – Mandatory training for all staff on emergency flood response.
• Drills and Simulations – Regular practice exercises to test the effectiveness of flood evacuation and response procedures.
• Staff Responsibilities:
  • Recognising flood risk warnings.
  • Following emergency protocols.
  • Assisting people we support during evacuations.
  • Ensuring the safety of medical equipment and essential records.

10. Monitoring and Compliance

• Regular Inspections – Ensuring that flood prevention measures are in place and maintained.
• Incident Reporting and Review – Documenting and analysing past flooding incidents to improve preparedness.
• CQC Compliance Checks – Ensuring alignment with regulatory expectations for emergency preparedness.

11. Responsibilities

• Registered Manager – Oversees flood risk management and compliance with CQC regulations.
• Flood Coordinator – Leads emergency responses and staff training initiatives.
• Health and Safety Team – Monitors and updates flood prevention measures.
• All Staff – Must follow flood response protocols and ensure the safety of people we support.

12. Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with this policy may result in:

• Regulatory enforcement by CQC for inadequate emergency preparedness.
• Increased risk to people we support due to unplanned and ineffective flood management.
• Damage to premises and loss of essential records due to lack of preventive measures.
• Disciplinary action for staff failing to follow flood response procedures.

13. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislative changes or service improvements require amendments. Staff, emergency response teams, and local authorities will be consulted to ensure best practices are upheld.

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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.