SOP 206.03 SAFETY SECTOR

The recognition of situations that present an unusual hazard to personnel, and the proper response to those situations, is of critical importance in all Fire Department operations. This procedure establishes a standard system for providing safety guidance at major incidents, through the implementation of a Safety Sector.

This procedure in no way diminishes the responsibility of each and every member of the Ennis Fire Department-to work within safety procedures at all times and the responsibility of officers for the safety of their assigned personnel.

Command has the responsibility to recognize situations requiring the implementation of a Safety Sector. Command will confirm the response of safety personnel when the need is indicated.

Upon arrival at a working incident designated personnel will report to the Command Post and, unless otherwise assigned, will automatically establish a Safety Sector. Safety personnel will respond to all multiple alarms and on request to other incidents.

Fireground safety responsibilities are normally assigned to the Safety Officer and the Fireground Commander. The roles of the two may overlap or be shared, depending on the specific situation. In some cases, Additional or alternate personnel may be assigned to this duty.

Safety Sector responsibilities are divided into two general areas: Safety Procedures and Technical Safety.

Responsibilities assigned to Safety Procedures include :

1. Monitor condition of personnel for signs of exhaustion and effects of products of combustion or toxic materials. -
2. Observe operations for proper observance of safety procedures and precautions by all personnel.
3. Assure proper use of protective clothing and equipment by all personnel in operating areas.
4. Observe general fireground for unsafe or hazardous conditions and interact with command officers to take adequate precautions .

These responsibilities are normally assigned to the Department's Safety Officer.

Responsibilities in the area of Technical Safety include:

Structural Safety – Observation of structural conditions that could present a safety hazard, including interaction with the Chief Building Official.

Monitoring concentrations of toxic or explosive vapors and use of monitoring instruments.

Consultation with Command on handling of incidents involving hazardous materials, flammable liquids and other materials that present unusual problems.

Liaison with outside agencies and other city departments in situations involving unusual hazards (sewer, electricity, natural gas, etc.).

These responsibilities are normally assigned to Building Inspection and Health.

Personnel assigned to the Safety Officer, recognizing a safety problem, MUST take appropriate action to cause its correction.

The command structure shall be used to effect appropriate response to a safety problem.

When the urgency of the situation demands, the Safety Sector personnel have full authority to cause immediate action by direct order to personnel or by use of “Emergency Traffic”.

Operating personnel receiving safety instructions from Safety Sector personnel shall immediately take appropriate action. Failure to comply will be subject to subsequent review and investigation.