Page 1 of 4 MANUAL HANDLING RISK ASSESSMENT GUIDANCE 1. AIMS 1.1 WATMOS will ensure that sufficient numbers of trained fire marshals exist at each location in order to facilitate effective evacuation procedures. 2. BEFORE AN EMERGENCY EVACUATION 2.1 Before an emergency evacuation: Work out the area for which you will be responsible. Get to know your area, fire exits, evacuation routes etc. Discuss with other colleagues exactly where you will cover between you. Know the area you will ‘sweep’ during the evacuation. Be vigilant – look out for fire related risks e.g. blocked fire exits, build up of combustible materials (paper, boxes etc.) in evacuation routes, fire doors not shutting properly etc. 3. DURING AN EMERGENCY EVACUATION 3.1 When the alarm sounds ensure all staff/visitors within your area are evacuating the building. Be visible. If possible wear a fire marshal’s armband or waistcoat. Ensure full assistance is given to any disabled person. Search the designated area and ensure every person has evacuated. Be confident and assured when asking people to leave. Look out for smoke - use vision panels in doors. Always check doors with the back of your hand. Never open a door when you suspect there to be a fire behind it (oxygen). Move everyone to the Assembly Point. Find out from those present if anyone is missing (have a register if possible). When appropriate give the ‘all clear’ and allow people to re-enter the building. 4. FIRE DRILLS 4.1 Maximise the effectiveness of fire practices by ensuring: Every member of staff leaves following the evacuation signal in an orderly fashion by the shortest route, having closed windows and doors. Where practical, all electrical equipment must be turned off. Full assistance is given to any disabled person. All areas have been searched and are known to be evacuated. Any difficulties are reported e.g. faulty alarms, obstructions to easy evacuation. 5. GENERAL 5.1 Ensure that fire precautions for the area are maintained to a high standard and in particular ensure: