{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

---

Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} complies with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, and Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) guidance on fire safety. This policy outlines the procedures for fire prevention, detection, response, and safe evacuation to protect the lives of residents, staff, and visitors. It provides clear guidance on how our care home efficiently manages fire safety and evacuation procedures.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, residents, visitors, contractors, and external professionals who enter {{org_field_name}}. It covers fire risk management, fire prevention measures, staff responsibilities, evacuation procedures, and emergency response protocols.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

• Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 – Establishes the legal framework for fire safety management in care homes.
• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Places a duty on employers to ensure fire safety in the workplace.
• The Regulated Services (Service Providers and Responsible Individuals) (Wales) Regulations 2017 – Defines provider responsibilities in ensuring a safe environment.
• Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) Fire Safety Guidelines – Sets fire safety expectations for regulated care homes.
• British Standards BS 9999 – Outlines best practices for fire safety in buildings.
• The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 (relevant in Wales) – Provides additional fire safety standards.

4. Fire Safety Measures and Management

4.1. Fire Risk Assessment To ensure fire safety compliance, we:

• Conduct comprehensive fire risk assessments annually and update them as needed.
• Identify potential fire hazards and implement control measures.
• Assess resident evacuation needs, considering mobility and cognitive impairments.
• Maintain a record of all fire safety assessments, available for CIW inspection.

4.2. Fire Detection and Alarm Systems Early fire detection is essential to prevent harm. We ensure:

• The installation and maintenance of smoke detectors and fire alarms throughout the premises.
• Weekly testing of fire alarm systems to ensure functionality.
• Immediate reporting and repair of faulty fire detection equipment.
• Fire alarms are audible and visual, catering to residents with hearing impairments.

4.3. Fire Prevention and Control Measures Preventing fire hazards is a key priority. Our approach includes:

• Implementing strict no-smoking policies within the care home.
• Regular inspection and maintenance of electrical equipment and wiring.
• Safe storage of flammable materials, including cleaning products and medical gases.
• Training staff in fire prevention techniques and emergency response.
• Conducting regular fire drills to ensure preparedness.

4.4. Evacuation Procedures and Emergency Response A clear and practiced evacuation plan is essential for resident safety. We:

• Develop personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs) for each resident, considering mobility and cognitive needs.
• Clearly display fire exit routes and assembly points throughout the care home.
• Ensure fire doors remain unobstructed and functional at all times.
• Conduct monthly evacuation drills for staff and residents.
• Assign Fire Wardens and ensure they are trained in evacuation coordination.
• Ensure emergency grab bags (including resident records, torches, and first aid kits) are readily available.

4.5. Staff Roles and Responsibilities All staff play a crucial role in fire safety. We ensure that:

• The Fire Safety Lead and Fire Wardens oversee fire prevention and evacuation procedures.
• All staff receive annual fire safety training and refresher courses.
• Night staff have specific fire evacuation training, as emergencies may occur outside of peak hours.
• Staff members assist residents with PEEPs in an emergency.
• Visitors and contractors are informed of fire safety procedures upon entry.

4.6. Fire Drills and Training Regular fire drills are essential for preparedness. We:

• Conduct full evacuation drills at least twice a year.
• Include surprise fire drills to assess real-time staff response.
• Simulate different fire scenarios to test various emergency responses.
• Evaluate drills and identify areas for improvement.
• Ensure all staff can use fire extinguishers correctly and understand their limitations.

4.7. Coordination with Emergency Services A prompt and coordinated emergency response is critical. We ensure that:

• Local fire and rescue services conduct periodic inspections of our premises.
• Staff are trained to liaise with emergency responders efficiently.
• Emergency services have access to site plans and resident evacuation details.
• Fire hydrants and extinguishers are easily accessible and regularly inspected.

4.8. Fire Safety Equipment Maintenance Proper maintenance of fire safety equipment is crucial. We:

• Perform monthly fire extinguisher checks and ensure accessibility.
• Service fire alarm systems every six months.
• Maintain fire doors, ensuring they function properly and remain closed when necessary.
• Check emergency lighting systems to ensure functionality in a power outage.

4.9. Fire Safety for Residents with Mobility or Cognitive Impairments Some residents may require additional assistance during an evacuation. We:

• Develop tailored evacuation plans for residents with disabilities.
• Assign designated staff to assist in evacuating residents with mobility issues.
• Ensure residents with dementia or sensory impairments receive extra support during drills.
• Use evacuation aids (such as evacuation chairs or sledges) where necessary.

4.10. Visitor and Contractor Fire Safety Awareness All visitors and external workers must be aware of our fire safety measures. We:

• Provide fire safety briefings upon arrival.
• Ensure contractors comply with fire safety protocols while on-site.
• Display fire safety signs and emergency contact information prominently.

5. Related Policies

• CHW16: Health and Safety at Work Policy
• CHW18: Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• CHW19: Emergency and Business Continuity Plan
• CHW21: Medication Management and Administration Policy
• CHW23: Lone Working and Staff Safety Policy
• CHW24: Management of Accidents, Incidents, and Near Misses Policy

6. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislative changes, CIW regulations, or operational needs dictate. Updates will be communicated to all relevant staff to ensure compliance and best practice within {{org_field_name}}.

---

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.