Herts Mandarin School Fire Safety Policy

Herts Mandarin School Fire Safety Policy

1. Introduction

At Herts Mandarin School, the safety of our students, staff, and visitors is our top priority. This fire safety policy outlines the procedures and responsibilities to ensure a safe environment during our Saturday morning and after-school Mandarin classes.

Our classes are held in small groups, with a maximum of 8-10 students per class, for one-hour sessions.

2. Fire Safety Responsibilities
        •       Fire Safety Officer: Qin Lin
Responsible for implementing fire safety measures, conducting fire drills, and ensuring compliance with fire regulations.
        •       All Staff and Volunteers: Must familiarize themselves with fire safety procedures, including evacuation routes and assembly points.
        •       Students: Will be briefed on fire safety procedures and are expected to follow staff instructions during an emergency.

3. Fire Risk Assessment

A fire risk assessment will be conducted annually, or whenever significant changes are made to the premises or activities. This will include:
        •       Identifying potential fire hazards.
        •       Assessing the risks to students, staff, and visitors.
        •       Implementing measures to reduce or eliminate risks.

4. Fire Prevention Measures
        •       Ensure all electrical equipment is regularly inspected and maintained.
        •       Prohibit the use of open flames or flammable materials in teaching areas.
        •       Keep fire exits clear and unobstructed at all times.
        •       Store any cleaning or hazardous materials safely and away from ignition sources.

5. Fire Drills and Training
        •       Fire drills will be conducted at least once per term to ensure everyone is familiar with evacuation procedures.
        •       Staff will receive annual fire safety training, including the use of fire extinguishers and how to assist children during evacuations.

6. Fire Evacuation Procedure
        1.      Raise the Alarm:
        •       If a fire is detected, activate the nearest fire alarm.
        2.      Evacuate the Building:
        •       Staff will lead students to the nearest fire exit in a calm and orderly manner.
        •       Students must not collect personal belongings.
        3.      Assembly Point:
        •       All students, staff, and visitors will assemble at the designated fire assembly point: [Insert Location].
        4.      Roll Call:
        •       Staff will conduct a roll call to ensure all students and staff are accounted for.
        5.      Contact Emergency Services:
        •       Dial 999 to report the fire. Provide the location and details of the incident.
        6.      Do Not Re-enter:
        •       No one may re-enter the building until it is declared safe by the fire service.

7. Fire Safety Equipment
        •       Fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and emergency lighting will be inspected regularly and maintained according to legal requirements.
        •       Fire exit signs will be clearly displayed and illuminated.

8. Special Considerations
        •       Staff will provide additional support for younger children or those with special needs during evacuations.
        •       A buddy system may be used to ensure all students are safely evacuated.

9. Monitoring and Review
        •       This policy will be reviewed annually or following any fire-related incident.
        •       Feedback from staff, students, and parents will be considered to improve fire safety procedures.

10. Emergency Contact Information
        •       Fire Safety Officer: Qin Lin
        •       Local Fire Service Contact: Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service – Dial 999 for emergencies.

By implementing this fire safety policy, Herts Mandarin School aims to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved in our activities.

Approved by:
Qin Lin
Date: 1st of January 2025