How to run your first fire drill in a small business
By Joe Cooper · · 4 min read
A fire drill is the quickest way to find out whether your plan works. GOV.UK says to run at least one a year and record the results. You do not need to make it complicated. Here is a simple way to do your first one.
Before the drill
- Decide who will lead it and who will observe and time it.
- Choose the assembly point and check everyone knows where it is.
- Think about anyone who would need help to leave, such as people with mobility needs, and agree how they will be helped.
- Decide whether the drill is announced or unannounced. Announced is a good place to start.
During the drill
- Sound the alarm and start a timer.
- Staff and visitors leave by the nearest safe exit and go to the assembly point.
- The person in charge takes a roll call using the staff list and visitor sign-in.
- Stop the timer when everyone is accounted for.
- Observers note anything that slows people down, such as blocked routes, doors that do not close or people going back for belongings.
After the drill
Hold a short debrief while it is fresh. Ask what went well, what was confusing and what needs to change. Fix problems and note who is responsible and by when.
What to record
- Date, time and who led it.
- Time taken to reach the assembly point.
- How many people left and how many were expected.
- Whether the drill was announced.
- Any problems, help given to anyone, and what you changed.
Do it again
Run the drill again after you have fixed the problems, and whenever your layout, staff or procedures change. Over time, a series of dated records shows that your plan is tested and improving.
Want this done for you each week? See what Pioneer Fire includes or view the plans.
General information based on GOV.UK guidance and common practice. It is not legal advice or a fire risk assessment. Your own fire risk assessment sets what applies to your premises. Sources: GOV.UK, Fire safety in the workplace.