L99: 6. Emergency Response

The University is required, under various legal and other recommendations, to ensure that corridors within buildings are kept free of obstruction to facilitate egress in case of emergencies.

The Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 requires that employers ensure that the means of access to, and exiting from the workplace are safe and without risks to health.

6.6.2. Application

For the purpose of this policy, the term corridor includes stairways, landings and foyers.

6.6.3. Legislation

Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004

Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations 2000

The following two standards are referenced in the above regulations and are therefore binding under Victorian law:

AS1940 Storage and Handling of flammable and combustible liquids

AS2243.1 Safety in Laboratories

6.6.4. References

Code of Practice for Workplaces

Building Code of Australia Section D

6.6.5. Responsibilities

6.6.5.1. Head of Department

It is the responsibility of Departments to comply with the above policy as far as practicable. If any assistance is required, contact the General Manager, EHS on 8344 3050.

Verification of the implementation of this policy will be checked by any of the following means:

management system compliance audits
Internal audits conducted by Departments
Audits conducted by Internal Audit
Annual sign off on safety responsibilities by Heads of Department

6.6.5.2. All Employees

Must not place items in corridors or use corridors as work space.

6.6.6. Procedure and Guidelines

Irrespective of the width of the corridors :

Corridors and escape routes should not be used as work space;
Fixed and mobile appliances should not be positioned in corridors or escape routes;
Projection of objects into corridors and escape routes should be avoided;
Corridors and escape routes should be kept clear at all times and should not be used as storage space for goods, furniture, equipment, and unwanted material, even on a short term basis
Where seating is provided for the use of customers, or displays and plants are placed in corridors, there should be a minimum width of 1.5 meters free space.

Details from legislative references:

indoor fireproof cabinets used for the storage of dangerous goods in excess of minimum quantities should be kept clear of any passages, exits and ventilation ducts (Regulation 405)
access and egress routes inside areas, rooms or buildings where dangerous goods are stored or handled in excess of minimum quantities, are kept clear at all times (Regulation 425 )
flammable and combustible liquids shall not be stored or used where they may jeopardize escape from a building in the event of fire (AS1940 section 2)
all fire-escape routes should be kept completely clear at all times (AS2243.1 section 1.5)
buildings with laboratories should have 1.5 metres clear width for corridors (AS2243.1 section 2.1.3)

6.7. Installed Fire Protection Systems

6.7.1. Purpose

To provide information on fixed fire protection systems installed in university buildings.

6.7.2. Application

There are three major reasons underlying the legal requirements for the installation of fixed systems in fire protection, these are:

Protection of property and equipment
Protection of personnel
Protection of or against special risks.

6.7.4. References

Local Government regulations and accepted Australian Standards.

Building Code of Australia.

6.7.5. Responsibilities

6.7.5.1. Property planning and development

All installed fire protection systems are maintained to comply with the legal requirements including Local Government regulations and accepted Australian Standards.

6.7.5.2. Maintenance

The maintenance of such systems is under the control of the Maintenance (Asset Services) Department, Property & Campus Services.

6.7.5.3. All Employees

All faults or anomalies should be reported immediately to Maintenance (Asset Services) Department - extension 46000.

All building occupants should be familiar with the sound of their buildings fire alarm and particular attention must be given to areas where difficulty in hearing the alarm exists e.g. noisy workshops, darkrooms, sound proof rooms etc.

Fire doors which are fitted with a self-closing mechanism should not be wedged open.

Fire stairways must not be used for storage, or contain any combustible material or objects which will restrict the movement of persons in the stairway.

6.7.6. Procedure and Guidelines

The Building Regulations 2006 require that where proposed alterations (together with other alterations within the previous three years) represent more than 50% or the original volume of the building, the entire building must be brought into compliance with current regulations.

The relevant Building Surveyor may consent to partial compliance if the safety, health and amenity of persons accommodated in, or resorting to the building, or the risk of spread of fire to or from adjoining buildings will not be substantially adversely affected by the alterations.

In general terms, where existing buildings are refurbished, the Building Code of Australia (BCA) requires that the floor area being refurbished is brought up to current standards.

This protection is achieved through the installation and provision of equipment or services during the construction stage or during refurbishment of a building. The type of installed system will depend upon the perceived risk of processes and tasks carried out in the building, and the age of the building. The age of the building is relevant; at the date of construction or major refurbishment the installed fire protection equipment will have complied with the legal requirement, but will not necessarily reflect the latest technology.

The form of protection installed will either control a fire situation by extinguishing or isolating it, detect that heat or smoke is present, or raise the building fire alarm system. In any building, the installed equipment may combine these systems.

All fixed fire protection systems are connected to a fire panel which is part of a network which relays the fire alarm signal to the Fire Brigade.

Alarm

The fire alarm is usually a bell installed on the outside of the building, and may include repeater bells inside the building. Since 1986 it is a requirement for some class of new or refurbished buildings to install a siren and warden communication points in a building to supplement the external fire alarm bell.

The primary purpose of the alarm system is to notify the building occupants that a fire situation has occurred. The activation of the fire alarm should be treated by all occupants as a real event and the building evacuation procedure should be implemented.

Detection Systems

The detection system in buildings may sense either heat or smoke or a combination of these. Smoke detectors are increasingly being used because of their earlier warning of an emergency situation. Smoke detectors may also be used to activate fire doors to isolate zones in the building.

Fire Doors

Fire doors are installed to minimise the spread of fire, including the passage of smoke through a building.

Fire doors may be automatically operated by heat activated mechanisms or smoke detectors. The securing of fire doors must be such that persons leaving an area via the fire door can do so without the use of keys or similar at all times. Fire doors must not be wedged open.

Fire Stairways

Fire doors are also fitted to fire isolated stairways which allow the safe egress from floors within the building.

Fire Control Systems

Some buildings or sections of buildings are fitted with automatically activated sprinkler heads. On activation, the sprinklers discharge a fine mist of water to extinguish/contain a fire.

In other special risk locations such as flammable liquids storerooms, computer rooms (main frames), flood systems are used to extinguish fire. Where gaseous flooding systems are installed in normally occupied areas (e.g. computer rooms), a warning alarm is sounded prior to the discharge of gas into the room. A warning notice instructing personnel what to do should also be displayed.

Fire Hydrants and Hoses

Canvas fire hoses attached to or adjacent to fire hydrant points are installed only for use by the Fire Brigade. They must not be used by untrained personnel as injury or excess property damage may result.

The University has received a special dispensation on the requirements for canvas hoses in buildings where there is no greater than a 30 m rise in a building, and the required mains pressures are achieved.

6.8. Portable Fire Fighting Equipment

6.8.1. Purpose

To provide details of portable fire equipment provided in university building and vehicles.

6.8.2. Application

Portable fire fighting equipment are designed to provide the user with an appliance to attend a small fire during its initial stage. When deciding to attack a fire, always designate another person to raise the alarm and obtain a back-up fire extinguisher.

6.8.3. Legislation

6.8.4. References

Fire Protection Association of Australia Chart.

6.8.5. Responsibilities

6.8.5.1. Staff Development and Training Unit

Provide Training Courses in conjunction with the Environment Health and Safety Unit.

6.8.5.2. Environment Health and Safety Unit

Provide advice, information and assistance where required.

6.8.5.3. Maintenance

Perform regular inspections and maintenance of portable fire units in buildings under the control of the University.

6.8.5.4. Departmental Managers

Ensure that all staff and students receive the appropriate training, both at induction and during their time in the Department.

The amount of combustible material in their area is kept to a minimum and have all rubbish and excess packaging removed.

Keep all access routes to fire fighting equipment clear at all times.

Safety Inspections of Departments (See Section 10)

6.8.5.5. All Employees

All emergency staff should be trained in the operation of the portable fire extinguishers.

All staff and students should be familiar with their buildings evacuation procedures and with the use of installed fire fighting equipment.

6.8.6. Procedure and Guidelines

Fire can erupt suddenly, without warning, at any time, causing damage to property or people through heat, smoke or gases given off. For a fire to exist, three elements must be present:

Fire / Air / Heat: the removal or control of one or more of these elements will stop the fire.

Fire Hose Reel: Fire hoses are provided in all University buildings for use by University staff on normal fires. Fire hose reels are permanently mounted on a wall or in a cabinet in a readily accessible location, connected to a constant water supply. They are designed to be operated by one person, and used only on carbonaceous-type fires such as wood, paper, rubbish or textiles. They should never be used on fires involving live electrical equipment.

To operate, turn on the water control valve before unwinding the hose. Discharge is controlled at the nozzle end by a valve or twisting action.

Fire Blanket Where fire blankets are installed, they are used to smother the fire to exclude oxygen. They are particularly useful if a persons clothing is on fire.

Fire Extinguishers Portable fire extinguishers are provided in all university buildings and vehicles for use by University staff members. There are several types of fire extinguishers.

water Red in colour, it contains nine litres of water under pressure and is to be used in an upright position. It is designed for use on carbonaceous solids such as wood, paper, rubbish or textiles, and has a discharge period of 60 - 100 seconds. Water extinguishers are unsuitable for flammable liquid fires.
foam Blue in colour, it contains nine litres of an aqueous film-forming foam additive, and is to be used in an upright position. It is designed for use on flammable liquid fires such as petrol, oils and paint and has a discharge period of 40 - 90 seconds.
wet chemical foam Gold in colour, it has a liquid alkaline extinguishing agent, and is specifically designed for use in kitchens on deep fryer fires involving fat and cooking oil.

These Extinguishers must never be used on fires involving live electrical equipment.

carbon dioxide Red in colour with a black band, it is designed for use on fires involving flammable liquids and live electrical equipment. The discharge period depends on the size of the extinguisher.

dry chemical Red in colour with a white band, it contains a bi-carbonate based powder and is suitable for fires involving flammable liquids and live electrical equipment. The discharge period depends on the size of the extinguisher.

BCF (halon) Yellow in colour. These extinguishers have been withdrawn in accordance with environmental guidelines since 1 January 1997. Please return any existing units to Maintenance.

* Note: Departments shall be required to arrange the servicing of the fire extinguishers fitted in their vehicles through the current contractor used by the University Maintenance. It is recommended that servicing be carried out during the inspection visit in October of each year. Departments can obtain confirmation of the onsite inspection dates from Maintenance Department. The cost of servicing the fire extinguishers installed in motor vehicles will be charged to Departments.

6.9. Safety Signage

This procedure has been replaced by 11.25. New. EHS Signage.

6.10. Spill Control

6.10.1. Policy

To ensure copmpliance with all legal requirements for dealing wwth spills of chemical substances on University premises, or premises under University control.

6.10.2. Application

This procedure applies to all areas of the University where chemical substances are transported, purchased, stored, handled, or used, including vehicles of visitors or suppliers who bring substances that are a potential hazard into the University.

A delivery vehicle may contain hazardous substances that do not belong to the University. However, if a spill or leak from that vehicle occurs on University property and the substance enters a storm water or trade waste drain, or causes injury, the University may be liable for any subsequent action by a responsible Authority.

6.10.3. Legislation

Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004

Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations 2000

Occupational Health & Safety Regulations 2007

Australian Dangerous Goods Code 6th Edition

Environment Protection Act 1970

6.10.4. References

NHMRC Guidelines for Laboratory Personnel Working with Carcinogenic or Highly Toxic Chemicals

Code of Practice for Hazardous Substances 2000

Code of Practice for Dangerous Goods 2000

AS 2243.10 Storage of Chemicals 1993

As 1940 Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Materials

6.10.5. Responsibilities

6.10.5.1. Head of Department

Ensure information is provided to staff and students to safely clean up spilled chemical substances. This should include emergency services contact details, building evacuation team contacts, and other staff as appropriate, and location of equipment and materials such as self contained breathing apparatus or respirator locations.

Ensure that all supervisory staff are aware of the legal obligations regarding pollution from spills

Ensure that staff receive training that includes spill control methods, appropriate waste disposal methods and safe use of equipment used in spill control. See staff Training Programs: Chemical Management.

Ensure that materials for spill control are available in all areas where chemical substances are used, handled, stored or transported, and that the materials are clearly labeled and signed.

Ensure appropriate equipment is cleaned, stored and maintained by qualified persons.

6.10.5.2. Environment Health and Safety Unit

Provide information to Departments and Faculties on the legal requirements for spill control and waste disposal.

Provide advice on disposal methods or spilled materials and disposal contractors.

Consult with Staff Development and Training to ensure that training about hazardous materials is provided, and that the training includes spill control and clean up methods.

6.10.5.3. Staff / Students

Put personal safety first - keep clear of a spill unless trained in spill control and clean up.

Ensure only trained and competent staff attempt to clean up a chemical substance spill

Know where MSDSs are kept, or are available.

Attend training provided on spill control.

Follow written procedures provided for spill control

Use spill control equipment in the proper manner.

Store and maintain equipment as appropriate.

6.10.6. Procedure and Guidelines

The following procedures and guidelines are for general guideance. Each laboratory, department etc that uses Chemical Substances should have specific procedures for the particular types of substances used within the workplace, or brought onto the premises

6.10.6.1. Undertaking Risk Assessments

Who will clean up a chemical spill is determined by a risk assessment. The assessment will involve 3 factors:

* The nature of the spilled chemical (High / Low Hazard material)

* The quantity spilled (Large / Small amounts)

* The location of the spill (difficult access, public site / bunded area)

When evaluating risks associated with spills, 3 questions should be considered:

* Is special training required to handle the situation?

* Is special equipment required to clean up the spill? (ie SCBA, PPE etc)

* Are special procedures required to clean up the spill (ie pumps, hoses etc)

Where the response is HIGH to any of the first three factors, or YES to any of the second 3 questions then the spill must be considered as HIGH RISK.

Generally spills of less than 1 litre of most chemicals can be considered LOW RISK un less the material is highly toxic or reactive.

All high risk spills should be handled by the Emergency Services response team.

Low risk spills may be handled by area workers under direct supervision.

6.10.6.2. Preparing for Spills

Know the Material Safety Data Sheet special requirements for spill control such as the type of fire extinguisher required, incompatible substances, reactivity with substances such as water or air.

Where a substance is unknown, or an experimental substance with no MSDS, always treat as toxic.

Ensure there is:

* An amount of vermiculite sufficient to deal with a spillage of the largest container of non corrosive liquids used in the immediate area should be on hand.

* A similar amount of Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate should be provided for spills of corrosive liquids.

* Sand, 'kitty litter' or an absorbent spill pillow should be available to prevent hazardous substances entering drains or storm water systems.

* Appropriate PPE such as gloves, protective clothing, face shields, respirators or SCBA should be readily available, depending on the hazards associated with the types of substances used or stored in an area.

* A chemical resistant container with a close fitting lid that will hold at least the volume of vermiculate and other contaminated material should be on hand for waste disposal of the spilled material.

Wherever practicable, the storage and use of the chemical should be in an area which can contain or restrict the flow from a spill site. On benches, this can be assisted by a raised lip at the front of the bench, or by the use of spill trays.

In storage cabinets, trays should be provided that are compatible with the contents, and which will contain the contents of the two largest glass containers, or the largest metal or plastic container.

For storage areas where liquids are involved, bunding should be considered. This is mandatory for certain areas.

6.10.6.3. Cleaning the Spill

IMMEDIATE ACTIONS

* Clear the area

* Check for any persons involved

* Isolate the spill (if safe to do so)

* Contact the area supervisor or Safety Officer

The primary concern is to protect health and safety. No action should be taken during an emergency response that directly or indirectly violates this principle.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR EVACUATION

* Uncontrolled open flame

* Uncontrolled compressed gas release

* Any situation which poses imminent threat to human health or safety

When the alarm sounds, all persons should immediately exit the building and report to their assigned assembly area. Elimination of potential sources of ignition should only be done if it can be accomplished without personal risk.

HIGH RISK SPILLS

1. Contact the Emergency Services Team by calling 0-000 or Security on 46666 and explain the situation.

2. Determine who will take responsibility for the spill, ie Contractor, Fire Brigade, other Emergency Service.

3. Ensure appropriate University Personnel are advised of the situation.

4. Follow any advice or information provided by the Emergency Response Team.

LOW RISK SPILLS

1. Have at least 2 trained workers to handle the spill

2. Use the proper protective equipment

3. Ensure fire protection is available for flammable spills

4. Control the source

5. Contain free liquids by damming, absorbing if appropriate

6. Place all spill residues in an appropriate manner

7. Decontaminate the affected area using an appropriate material

8. Decontaminate the salvage equipment

9. Analyse the area to ensure proper decontamination has taken place

10. Examine walkways, floors, stairs equipment etc for other hazards or damage

DEBRIEFING

All emergency personnel involved in the spill response should be debriefed after the spill has been resolved.

All spill control supplies should be restocked.

All damaged or used equipment should be repaired or refilled.

When the area is deemed clear, it can be re-opened for operations.