CONDUCT EVACUATIONS AND

EMERGENCY DRILLS

FACILITATOR/LEARNER GUIDE
Unit Standard No: 242825
Unit Standard Credits: 4
NQF Level: 4

SKILLS PROGRAM 2
BOOK 2
2
REVIEW AND ALTERATION OF TRAINING MATERIAL

What follows is a brief explanation of the process that was followed in the alteration of this training
material. A working group was formed after inviting interested parties to attend a meeting at SASSETA.

The working group was mandated to review the material and thereafter make the necessary changes so
as to provide the industry with a more user friendly set of materials which better reflects the needs of the
security industry.

It must be understood that this is the first review and by no means the final review. The working group
was placed under enormous pressure to get a workable set of materials into the hands of the accredited
security industry training providers as quickly as possible. We therefore have no doubt that even though
the materials have been vastly improved upon, there are still areas that may require change. This we
plan to do in the next renewal phase after we receive feedback from training providers who have used
the material for approximately a year.

Our review process focused on the following:

• Removal of unnecessary information/duplication from the learning material.

• Ensure alignment with the unit standards.
• Re-draft all formative and summative assessments.
• Correct inappropriate use of language.

TASK TEAM

The task team that completed the work on this training material deserves a very special “thank you”,
considering that all their time and efforts were provided free of charge. Nobody was paid for any of the
work done on behalf of the task team. SASSETA provided funding for the expenses incurred in printing,
typesetting, lunch and refreshments.

The task team members are as follows:

Andre Pretorius International Firearm Training Academy

Andre Wilken SSN
Dave Dodge ESKOM
Eddie Du Plooy/ Elvis Masera SBV Services
Jean Du Plessis Lyttleton Firearm Training Centre
Leon van Rooyen NAD
Lionel Arries SASSETA (observer/adviser)
Marion Colley Pexco Security and Training

A very sincere thank you to all of these individuals and the companies they work for, who allowed them
to participate during business hours. This could not have been done without your commitment.

Sincerely

Andre Pretorius
Task Team Chairman

3
 PROGRAM GUIDE 5-6
1. Introduction 5
2. Purpose of this learning program 5
3. Standards and qualifications 5
4. Assessments 5
5. Security program matrix 6
Study unit 1: The nature of emergencies 7-10
1. Introduction 8
2. Definition 8
3. Reasons why security guards should be involved in emergency 9
planning
4. Risk assessment 9
5. Steps in the emergency planning process 10
Study unit 2: Emergency planning 11-20
1. Chain of command 12
2. Alarm or warning system 14
3. Shut down procedures 15
4. Evacuation 16
5. Specific security responsibilities during emergencies 16
6. Crime reduction and confrontation 18
7. Documentation 19
Study unit 3: Evacuations 21-28
1. Types of evacuations 22
2. Mobility impaired or other impaired persons during an evacuation. 24
3. Evacuation drills during the event of a bomb threat. 24
4. Refusal to comply with evacuation drills. 25
5. Golden rules to consider during an evacuation 25
6. Standard operating procedures. 25
7. Victim support 26
8. Medical support 27
9. Emergency signs/signals. 28

Unit Standard 29-32

Learner workbook section 33-39

4
1. Introduction

This learning program is part of a complete qualification. The qualification is General Security
Practices NQF level 3.

2. Purpose of this learning program

A person credited with this unit standard will be able to:

♦ Identifying the emergency situation.

♦ Assisting with an evacuation drill.
♦ Responding to emergency signals in own area of responsibility.

2.1 Target group

This program is compiled for the following target group:

♦ Security members
♦ South African Defense Force members
♦ South African Police Force members
♦ Correctional Services
♦ Individuals who wishes to complete the NQF level 3 National Certificate in security practices.

3. Standards and qualifications

Unit standards are the “building blocks” of qualifications. All qualifications are plotted on the
National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

Unit standards comprises of outcomes. An outcome is a statement that describes the required
competency that must be demonstrated by the learner on successful completion of a training
intervention.

4. Assessments

The assessment criteria describe the evidence that is needed that will show that the learner
has demonstrated the outcome correctly.

Kindly refer to the unit standard attached hereto for the assessment criteria listed under each Specific
Outcome in order for you to see what you will be assessed against.

You will be required to complete 2 written exams. The first is a formative assessment (open book
exam) and the second is a summative assessment (closed book exam). The purpose of the formative
assessment is to prepare you for the summative assessment.

The learner guide will remain the property of the learner once the LEARNING PROGRAM
has been completed.

5
5. Security program matrix

SKILLS PROGRAM 1: SASSETA E

1 246694 Explain the requirements for becoming a Level 3 4 Credits
security service provider
2 244184 Apply legal aspects in a security Level 3 8 Credits
environment
3 244182 Give evidence in court Level 3 4 Credits
4 244176 Use security equipment Level 2 2 Credits
5 244181 Perform hand over and take over Level 3 2 Credits Patrol Security
responsibilities
officer/Grade E
6 244177 Conduct a security patrol in area of Level 3 7 Credits
responsibility
7 244179 Handle complaints and problems Level 3 6 Credits
8 12484 Perform basic fire fighting Level 2 4 Credits
9 116534 Carry out basic first aid treatment in the Level 3 2 Credits
workplace

SKILLS PROGRAM 2: SASSETA D

1 244189 Conduct access and egress control Level 4 7 Credits
2 242825 Conduct evacuations and emergency drills Level 4 4 Credits
3 11505 Identify, handle and defuse security
Level 4 12 Credits
related conflict
4 117705 Demonstrate knowledge of the Firearms Access control
Level 3 3 Credits
Control Act 2000 (Act No. 60 of 2000)
officer/Grade D
5 113924 Apply basic business ethics in a work
Level 2 2 Credits
environment
6 119465 Write/present/sign texts for a range of
Level 3 5 Credits
communicative contexts
7 114979 Operate a computer workstation in a
Level 3 2 Credits
business environment

SKILLS PROGRAM 3: SASSETA C

1 113909
Coach a team member in order to
Level 3 5 Credits
enhance individual performance in work
environment
2 Apply knowledge of self and team in order
13912 to develop a plan to enhance team Level 3 5 Credits
performance
3 244578
Describe how to manage reactions
Level 3 2 Credits
arising from a traumatic event Asset & Reaction
4 Apply occupational health, safety and officer/Grade C
113852 Level 3 10 Credits
environmental principles
5 13936
Outline the legal environment of a
Level 3 2 Credits
selected industry
6 119472
Accommodate audience and context
Level 3 5 Credits
needs in oral/signed communication
7 11508 Write security reports and take statements Level 4 10 Credits

6
 STUDY UNIT 1
THE NATURE OF EMERGENCIES

LEARNING OUTCOMES

On completion of this study unit the student will….

♦ Define an emergency
♦ Explain the role of the security function in emergency planning.
♦ Explain the goal of emergency and disaster planning.
♦ Explain why a need for emergency plans exist in organizations.
♦ Explain the steps in the emergency planning process
♦ Understand the role of security in preventing emergencies.
♦ Explain the basic risk assessment process during and before an emergency.

7
1. Introduction

Private security personnel are underutilized in the field of emergency planning there are many areas
where private security assets can assist in emergency management functions. While our police, fire
and EMS personnel are accurately referred to as our “first responders”, private security personnel are
frequently on site when an emergency occurs. This placement provides them with a unique ability to
take immediate actions that can save lives before the first responders can arrive They are also refer
to as Persons in charge during shut down periods ,after hours and on weekends and should
therefore know what to do if emergencies arise and know how to deal with them.

2. Definition

An emergency has been defined as "an event that can harm the operation requiring immediate
action".

Some emergencies have a disrupting effect on production and trading; many pose a direct and
immediate threat to human life and property.

In order to be defined as an emergency, the incident should be one of the following:

1. Immediately threatening to life, health, property or environment.

• Have already caused loss of life, health detriments, property damage or environmental
damage
2. Have a high probability of escalating to cause immediate danger to life, health, property or
environment

2.1. Aim

The aim of emergency planning is to provide planned co-ordinated, organised and disciplined action
to avoid or minimise such loss, injury, damage or disruption.

2.2. Goal

The goal of emergency planning is thus threefold:

• To ensure the safety of people. Not only employees, but all persons directly or indirectly
connected to the organisation or company at the moment of the incident;
• The protection of property, with minimum loss or damage; and
• The restoration of normal operations with minimum delay.

2.3. Types of emergencies

As part of the risk assessment companies should draft a “list” of emergencies that they have
identified, as well as the impact the various emergencies might have on the company.
Generically emergencies can be divided in three broad categories of emergencies namely:

♦ Natural disasters: This category is normally referred to as “acts of God” and includes earth
quacks, floods, lightning, tornados and wild fires.

♦ Abnormal incidents or accidents: This category refers to incidents caused by human error
and include the following; explosions, industrial accidents, chemical spills etc.

♦ Intentional threats: This category refers to incidents caused by intentional human acts, and
include for example the following; riots, industrial action, terrorism, bomb and bomb threats
as well as hostage situation

8
 2.4. Examples of emergencies

Fire

Bomb threat

Industrial Unrest

Armed Robbery

Medical Emergency

Chemical Spill

Flood

Adverse weather

Explosion

Terrorist attack

Gas leak

3. Reasons why security guards should be involved in emergency planning:

• They are often the most qualified and best trained in emergency response.

• They are the most knowledgeable on the most probable of threats and risks (physical events).

• They typically operate on a 24x7 basis, making them the only readily available resource.

• They are usually the first to know of a threat or event and most often they have first response
accountability.

• They are or at least should be very influential with the executive decision makers to ensure
there is political and operational support for a Crisis Management Program.

• They have easy access to every business unit to garner the required support.

• They are the best positioned to effectively work with external emergency services and
agencies.

• Security patrols play a preventative and detection role

• Hazards are identified during patrols.

4. Risk assessment

Security professionals and management should always start with a risk assessment to prioritise
emergencies by doing a simple assessment taking the following steps.

• Identify the risk

• What is the like hood of the risk developing?
• What will the exposures be –staff-property- exposure
• What will the severity be –injuries-life-financial-production
• How can we pre-plan to prevent or lesson the probability of the risk developing and
lesson the severity should an emergency occur?

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5. Steps in the emergency planning process
1) Deciding a general strategy - This step is aimed at assessing the organisations
vulnerabilities as well as the probabilities of specific emergencies taking place
2) Prepare a plan that incorporates actions consistent with strategy – This sep is aimed at
assigning responsibilities ,describing recourses and identifying procedures to be carried out
during an emergency incident .
3) Implement the plan – This step is aimed at drafting a full set of implementing procedures for
each potential incident .The security professional will not be able to predict and plan for each
scenario ,but by drafting procedures in broad scenarios it can be adjusted to meet specific
needs
4) Test the plan - This step is aimed at testing the plan by full or partial implementation against
a specific predetermined scenario –communication and training is essential before the plan
can be tested
5) Evaluate the results – This step is aimed at the objective assessment of the completed test,
with the purpose of modifying the plan against the lessons learned during the test.

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 STUDY UNIT 2
EMERGENCY PLANNING

LEARNING OUTCOMES

On completion of this study unit the student will….

♦ Explain the basic structure of an emergency plan

♦ Understand the elements of an emergency plan and explain it against practical
examples
♦ Know the specific responsibilities of security staff during emergencies .
♦ Explain the rules to follow during an evacuation.
♦ Complete the required administration documents/registers

11
1. Chain of Command

Effective response to any emergency is in principal based on a well established chain of

command, with the authority and response to act promptly in any crisis. The emergency plan
should outline the emergency organisation within a company and should give clear mandates to
individuals within the chain of command.

Emergency controller
coordinator

Deputy Emergency controller

Fire coordinator First aid coordinator Evacuation coordinator

ordinator

Fire Team First aid Team Evacuation Team

Maintenance Team Transport Logistics

coordinator

Human resources Communication Finance

mergency controller

Security team coordinator

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1.1. Top Management

• Depending on the size and structure of an organization the Administrator of the emergency
plan should preferably be a member of top management.

• The higher the “rank” of the administrator the better the emergency plan will function. The
representative from management must have the authority to act and speak on behalf of the
company.

• The administrator, although not always operationally responsible for emergency planning,
should ensure that emergency plans are drafted, maintained and implemented.

• It is also the responsibility of the administrator to liaise with outside agencies and other
cooperating companies to ensure that emergency plans are adopted and converted to be in
line with national strategies.

• The representative from management must have the authority to declare a state of
emergency, with the subsequent activation of the emergency plan.

1.2. Emergency Controller

• Depending on the size and structure of organisations the Representative from top
management will sometimes also assume the active command of emergency response.

• In companies with an extended organisation though the manager directly involved with
operations will function as emergency controller.

• In industrial environments the plant manager is normally the “man -in-charge” when
emergencies are declared. The person appointed should have the authority, leadership and
decision-making abilities.

• The emergency controller should have at least one deputy, so that the deputy can control an
emergency in his absence.

• Where possible the emergency controller should be a member of the emergency planning
group.

a. The Emergency Controller is Responsible for the Following:

♦ Classifying the emergency and initiating action;

♦ Activating emergency teams;
♦ Ordering shutdown (partial or full);
♦ Ordering evacuation (partial or full);
♦ Reporting to management;
♦ Making emergency announcements;
♦ Requesting aid or other assistance; and
♦ Coordinating emergency actions.

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 b. Emergency Team

Depending on the type, size and nature of an organisation, emergency teams should be clearly
designated for each of the aspects of the emergency response.

The responsibilities will vary from company to company and team members might be appointed for
the following responsibilities:

Fire fighting;

Rescue;

First aid and medical care;

Transportation;

Communications;

Security;

Engineering;

Maintenance;

Finance;

Industrial and public relations;

Logistics;

Evacuation and roll call.

1.3. Co-ordinators

• The emergency teams should preferably follow the normal.

• Organisational chain of command and should be lead by the co-ordinators they should have
an alternative in the event that he/ she is not available to assume the responsibility

Duties of co-ordinators

Plan for emergencies;

Training of staff;

Take control and evaluate emergencies;

Test and check of equipment;

Feedback to emergency controller.

2. Alarm or Warning System

♦ In almost all organisations nowadays, industrial and otherwise, a fire alarm system exists. The
systems normally include a local signal (visual and/or auditable) as a warning to personnel,
but also as method of communication with the local fire department.

♦ As part of the emergency plan it is essential that an alarm system be incorporated in the
emergency procedure, either as communication medium, or as warning system to personnel.
In addition to fire alarms, other emergency alarms will usually originate from the emergency
command centre, or will be activated on authorization of the emergency.

Existing public address systems may be used for emergency announcements and alerts. In some
cases a manual alarm or bell is used for all warnings.

It is thus essential in any emergency plan that provision is made for a visual and/or audible alarm to
inform and warn personnel of emergencies.

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 2.1. Communication Systems

Communication as part of the command centre

internally as well as externally is essential and
should be sufficient to handle all incoming and
outgoing telephone calls. It should be taken into
consideration that the electrical supply, as well as
the telephone system might be interrupted during
an Emergency and therefore alternatives should be
sourced.

As internal communication medium, two ways

radio’s and even bells might be used depending on
the situation. With the ever growing cell phone
market the use of cell phones as communication
medium internally and externally had dramatically improved and should this be considered as a
Primary, or alternatively as a secondary communication medium in any emergency plan.

Communication with external sources of response and support is essential in any emergency plan,
and communication with the following agencies should be considered:

 Fire departments;
 Police;
 Hospitals;
 Emergency/ambulance services;
 Utilities companies (chemical cleanups);
 Civil defence agencies;
 Management and key employees not present;
 Adjacent plants, buildings or firma affected; and
 Mutual aid sources.

3. Shut Down Procedures

As part of any emergency procedure provision must be made for shut down procedures, either for the
affected area or the entire plant, depending on the circumstances. A detailed shutdown description
should form part of the emergency plan and should be focused on an orderly manner in bringing
processes to a halt.

The detailed procedures should follow the same pattern as normal shutdown procedures for
maintenance and other scheduled operations, but should be adapted for the time frames in with
emergencies are anticipated to progress.

Depending on the emergency and the time available for the shutdown procedure, the procedure
should make provision for quick and basic steps to follow in a limited time frame. This might
sometimes only allow for basic shutdown operations, and might include:

 Shutting off power to machines and fans;

 Shutting off feed lines, gas lines, etc;
 Closing windows (opening then in the case of a bomb threat);
 Clearing aisles;
 Closing valves;
 Covering anchoring or otherwise protecting equipment;
 Plugging vents and pipes; and
 Shutting or otherwise protecting doors windows and vents.

15
4. Evacuation

Evacuation procedures are one aspect of emergency planning which will be relatively uniform for
almost all situations - that is, the same evacuation routes, exits, secondary routes, and assigned
assembly points should be used where ever possible. Floor plans indicating this routes and assembly
points should be posted and staff needs to be trained in the procedures to be followed.

4.1. Assembly points

Once personnel have evacuated a building it is important to go immediately to the indicated assembly
points. The assembly point(s) should be carefully decided upon and should be chosen with the goal
in mind to provide a safe area where staff can assemble, away from the danger zone. The assembly
points are multi functional, and include the following:

• To provide emergency teams the opportunity to do roll call and to determine if any personnel
is unaccounted for;
• To ensure stability and order to the evacuation plan;
• To avoid panic;
• To treat any injuries; and;
• To provide a central point of control over the “masses”.

5. Specific security responsibilities during emergencies

Specific duties for security officials will largely depend on both the nature of a crisis and the local
conditions. Although the list in by no means complete, the following are specific security
responsibilities in an emergency and disaster situation.

5.1. Access control

This responsibility can be shared with other role players as part of emergency teams, but generally
the function is solely seated with the security component. The task is aimed at keeping record of all
persons entering or leaving the facility during the period of an emergency. Taking human nature into
consideration security has a major responsibility to ensure that staff do not re-enter the facility before
it is declared as safe. In the event of a bomb threat for example, security staff must ensure that the
area is cordoned off to avoid unauthorized access to areas which have not been searched and
declared safe by police and other professional agencies.

16
 5.2. Traffic control

Security must ensure unrestricted access to the outside emergency services. Security will for
example meet the responding emergency services, like the fire brigade, at the access gate and
inform them of the location and type of emergency. In some cases, and normally only on request of
the emergency services will the security officials escort the emergency services to the location of the
incident?

5.3. Protection of property

Physical security becomes an essential duty once a facility has been evacuated. As history has
shown, in the aftermath of emergencies and disasters, looting and theft are in the order of the day. In
the aftermath of the cyclone Catrina that hit the state of New Orleans in the USA in September 2005,
major incidents of looting has been reported.

Due to quick evacuation of facilities in certain emergencies valuable items and products are left
vulnerable, and is the responsibility solely on the shoulders of the security component to ensure the
protection of property.

5.4. Direction and control of personnel

Taking into consideration that safety of persons is one

of the major goals of emergency planning it is thus
also an important task of the security component to
ensure that staff and visitors, depending on the
organization, is directed away from danger zones to
areas of safety. The role of security staff to ensure
order, as well as to avoid panic, cannot be
underestimated and should be highlighted as part of
the training of security officials.

As indicated previously it is generally accepted that security officials plays a leading role in any
emergency. Based on this statement it is thus generally accepted that security officials will have a
major role to play in the implementation and control of evacuation procedures as a component of
emergency plans

5.5. Assistance in first aid, rescue, fire fighting and other emergency needs

Security’s general protective function in any emergency may involve the provision of
medical care, as a first aid response, to injured employees.

It is generally accepted that security officials must be equipped and trained to provide an
immediate response to basic medical, but also other rescue related emergencies, as a
first line of response.

It should generally not be expected of security to fulfil an extended medical and rescue
function, but only to act as an intermediate response until advanced support arrives, as
required by the emergency.

The serialized training of security staff as paramedics, as well as rescue specialists is

though not uncommon in certain industries in South Africa, especially in the mining sector
and other related industries.

17
6. Crime reduction and confrontation

Lawsuits can be brought against security company for the inappropriate actions of staff, in particular
security personnel, in handling disturbance issues (e.g., altercations, rowdy behaviour and fights), in
ejecting customers, and in making arrests.

The inappropriate actions of staff can include charges of assault and battery, unlawful detainment,
and false arrest. Adopting appropriate procedures coupled with proper training can prevent such
problems. An employer is vicariously liable for the acts of an employee committed within the scope of
employment. (Observe – Evaluate – Report - Act)

Security staff is often exposed to the following threats while they are involved in emergency functions.
They must record and report threats to the Emergency controller and try to not get involved.

• Unsafe or rowdy behaviour.

• Refusal to cooperate with security
personnel.
• Conduct endangering self.
• Failure to move to assigned assembly
points or leave the premises.
• Press taking photographs or videos
without authorisation.
• Immoral or vulgar behaviour.
• Fighting.
• Theft.
• Intentional property damage.
• Unauthorised access.
• Refusal to be searched.

When Confronted -
When a confrontation occurs, security staff should stay calm and speak clearly when dealing with
those involved in the disorder. If it appears that a fight or altercation may take place between staff
members, staff should immediately call for help by law enforcement.
Depending on the circumstance, it is generally preferred that staff waits until help arrives before
attempting to quell the disturbance.
If possible, staff should remain in contact with the control centre throughout the disruption.

The first action taken by staff in handling any disturbance is to ask the individual(s) involved to
comply with policies.

• Staff should never get physically involved in fighting among staff. The only time it would be
acceptable is in self-defence or to break up a fight. In these cases, only reasonable force
should be used. Some occasions where the use of force may be acceptable is for self-
defence, in defending others and protecting property, in preventing criminal acts and in
making an arrest

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7. Documentation

Security staff must report all incidents and emergencies in the occurrence book for record purposes.
The following information needs to be reported:

♦ Time of notification
♦ Time of arrival of emergency services
♦ Action taken before arrival
♦ Time incident was handed over to the emergency services
♦ Any other incidents noted during emergencies
♦ Any instructions given to them by the emergency controller

Specific checklist for emergencies such as bomb threats issued by the company must be completed
by security officer.

See example of bomb threat telephonist’s checklist below:

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 BOMB THREATS - TELEPHONIST'S CHECKLIST
1. Listen, remain calm and, if possible, get another operator to listen in.
2. Do not interrupt or try to transfer the call.
3. Try to keep the caller talking so that you can learn as much as possible.
4. Date and time of call.
____________________________________________________________

5. Message. ____________________________________________________________

6. Encourage caller to give:

6.1 Precise location of bomb.

6.2 Time set to explode.
6.3 Appearance of bomb.
6.4 Visible or hidden/camouflaged.
6.5 Reason for threat.
6.6 Who are you/What is your name?

7. Did caller appear familiar with the premises?

Immediately inform.

Origin of call Caller Language Used

Local; Call Box; Long Distance; Male; Young Adult; Female; English; Afrikaans; Black
Internal Other mature; Teenager (which?); European (which?)

Accent Voice Characteristics Speech

English (SA); English (UK); Loud; Soft; High-pitched; Deep; Fast; Slow; Distinct; Stutter;
Afrikaans; Black; Asian; Other Pleasant; Raspy, Flat; Muffled; Distorted; Nasal; Lisp;
Clear; Slurred; Other Intoxicated; Educated; other

Manner Background Noises

Calm; Angry; Rational;
Irrational; Coherent;
Incoherent; Deliberate;
Emotional; Laughing; Agitated;
Abusive; Foul language
Street traffic; Trains; Aircraft;
Factory; Office machines;
Voices; Music; Animals; Party
noises; Bedlam; Quiet; Other

As soon as you are relieved, complete this form to the best of your ability. Write down anything else
you can think of. Give your opinion, if possible, as to whether or not it was a hoax. Do not discuss the
incident with anyone else.

Date: ______________________ Signature: ______________________

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 STUDY UNIT 3
EVACUATIONS

LEARNING OUTCOMES

On completion of this study unit the student will….

♦ Explain the different types of evacuations

♦ Explain the action that an officer may take when employees refuse to evacuate.
♦ Explain the evacuation drills during the event of a fire
♦ Discuss general evacuation procedures.
♦ Explain the evacuation drill during the event of a bomb threat.
♦ Discuss procedures during the event of a medical emergency.
♦ Explain a typical standard operating procedure applicable to evacuation.
♦ Identify and explain the meaning of emergency signs applicable to emergencies.

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1. Types of evacuations

Evacuation normally causes a certain amount of panic. The decision to order an evacuation
must be taken with great care. In most instances only a partial evacuation may be necessary.

1.1 Partial Evacuation

This action is necessary where a suspicious object is found or when a specific place was indicated
by a person making a bomb threat. It will also be ordered where a fire is localized and can be
easily contained. The term partial evacuation means the following:

Only the area that is affected by the emergency is evacuated. Other areas not affected will not be
evacuated. This limits the risk of injury to personnel and the damage to property.

Advantages of partial evacuation

♦ The risk of injuries are minimized.

♦ Employees are available to effect searching of the area and to assist.
♦ Essential services can continue.
♦ Employees must remove all personal belongings e.g. handbags, lunch boxes, etc.

1.2 General evacuation

The decision to order a general evacuation is a difficult one to take because of the
accompanying responsibility and the problems it may cause. The term general evacuation
means the following:

All of the areas that are affected by the emergency as well as those that are not affected are
evacuated. The whole company, personnel and visitors will have to evacuate the premises.

1.3. Disadvantages of General Evacuation

♦ Employees can be injured in the rush to evacuate, particularly if they are not well
trained.
♦ In the event of a bomb threat the possibility exists that another similar device could be
placed outside the building.
♦ Employees and supervisors are not available after the evacuation to help search the
premises.
♦ Loss of production can have an adverse financial effect.

22
 EXAMPLE FIRE PLAN GENERAL STAFF

1. IF YOU DISCOVER A FIRE

Can you safely extinguish the fire

without risk to yourself?

YES NO

Sound the alarm by breaking Sound the alarm by

the nearest fire break-glass breaking the nearest fire
panel. break-glass panel.

Use the relevant extinguishers

Close any windows and doors

immediately surrounding the
Black Label: fire
Red Label:
Water CO2
Use for general Use with
fires, but not electrical Evacuate the building as
near electrical appliances. Not quickly as possible,
appliances suitable for encouraging others to leave
textile, wood, also and closing any doors
paper etc. fires through which you pass

Proceed to Fire Assembly

Point

23
2. Mobility Impaired or Other Impaired Persons During an Evacuation

Persons suffering mobility impairment or other impairment that would impact, or could possibly
impact, on their safe and speedy evacuation have a legislative obligation to communicate the
nature of the impairment to the emergency team leader or their supervisor prior to any event
which may require evacuation.

The emergency team leader should discuss with the individual concerned the procedures to be
taken if they are present during an evacuation. In any case, the impaired person should be made
aware of the need to evacuate by whatever means is reasonable and effective.

Measures taken to evacuate an impaired person will reasonably be expected to depend on the
nature of the impairment and the circumstances of the emergency or evacuation. Assistance may
be required in locating and using the normal exits, or the emergency may restrict or negate the
ability to use a suitable exit.

Persons with an impairment not affecting their mobility at all, (e.g. not to do with walking, eyesight,
ability to direct themselves) and once made aware of the need to evacuate, should reasonably be
expected to make their own way to the evacuation exits and assembly areas.

Where the impairment of an individual only partially affects their ability to respond to an evacuation
(e.g. impaired vision or the need to use crutches) and the emergency team leader or supervisor
is aware of the situation, an able-bodied person should be nominated to guide or assist the
impaired individual to the evacuation exit and assembly area.

If those in authority are unaware, they should be notified immediately, or failing the ability to do so,
an able-bodied person should assist the impaired person. The evacuation of this individual should
not hinder the passage of more able-bodied people, and is more safely conducted after the
majority have passed. If possible a ‘Buddy System’, where both parties have practiced together the
response to a call to evacuate, should be considered.

If the mobility restriction is severe (e.g. the person uses a wheelchair), the response to the
evacuation call will depend upon the nature of the emergency or evacuation. Where a suitable exit
is safely available, the person may prefer to affect their own egress and attendance at an
assembly area.

If for any reason the exit is unavailable, the individual should be accompanied to a pre-arranged
safety point from where, if necessary, their evacuation can be procured, preferably by suitably
trained persons. (e.g. Fire Brigade personnel) A responsible person should be nominated to
assist and remain with the impaired person, and provide comfort and reassurance if needed. A
‘Buddy System’ should be considered.

At no time should a severely impaired person be exposed to unnecessary distress. Evacuation by

carrying should only be considered if there is imminent danger, and other options are not available.
This method should be conducted by suitably trained personnel where possible.

3. Evacuation drills during the event of a bomb threat

Until proven otherwise, all threats are to be treated as real. During working hours the emergency
team together with management staff should evaluate the threat and consider actions/evacuation.
This may be done in conjunction with the police and facilities management staff if they are
available Every company will have its own procedure and the decision to search or evacuate will
be made by the emergency controller

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4. Refusal to comply with evacuation drills

Under legislation, all persons in the workplace must obey directions given by an emergency team
leader during an evacuation or in the conduct of their duties. Failure to do so is a serious offence,
and once a person has been clearly advised that they are required to evacuate, the refusal must
be reported to the team leader who will advise the Officer-in-Charge of the Emergency Services.

The Officer at their discretion may take the appropriate action under law to remove the person.
(Emergency Services personnel are legally able to use whatever means available that is
reasonable and necessary in order to ensure the safety of all persons during an emergency or
evacuation.) The Officer-in-Charge may lay charges for the breach of law. Similarly, the offence
must be reported to the company director/supervisor. Disciplinary actions are dependent on the
nature of the offence and at the discretion of the organization.

5. Golden rules to consider during an evacuation are as follows:

♦ Stay calm;
♦ Do not run (walk briskly);
♦ Keep to the left of emergency escape routes;
♦ Assist disabled persons;
♦ Do not use lifts;
♦ Ladies must remove their high heel shoes;
♦ Do not flock together and walk in single file;
♦ Close doors behind you;
♦ Switch off electricity;
♦ Report to the assembly point;
♦ Do not go back into the building before the all clear signal.
♦ In case of a fire evacuation – close all windows and doors
♦ In case of a bomb threat -open all windows and doors

6. Standard operating procedures

This is only an example of a work instruction to respond to emergencies. Please note that the
instructions of each company and or security site will be different.

♦ Step 1: Identify type/nature of emergency.

♦ Step 2: Determine seriousness of emergency.

♦ Step 3: Determine immediate threat.

♦ Step 4: Respond to the emergency according to the site Emergency Preparedness

Plan.

♦ Step 5: Stabilize the situation, if possible.

♦ Step 6: Report immediately to Manager/Supervisor, and Site Manager/Supervisor.

♦ Step 7: Make an entry in the Occurrence Book.

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7. Victim support

Victim Support helps people to cope in the aftermath of a crime. A primary victim is someone who
has suffered physical harm, emotional trauma and/or personal or property loss from criminal activity
or emergency.

• People can suffer greatly in the aftermath of crime or emergency and may experience a range
of reactions, depending on the severity of the incident. Below is a list of Government services
which can assist them:

♦ Accident Compensation Corporation;

♦ Department of Child, Youth and Family Services;
♦ Ministry of Justice;
♦ Ministry of Social Development;
♦ District Health Boards (and the hospital and health services they provide);
♦ Police.

There are certain rights that cannot be limited at all, even during a state of emergency. Some of
these are:

• the right to human dignity

• the right to life
• the right to equality (race and sex only)
• right to refuse medical treatment
• You must treat a victim with courtesy and compassion, and with respect

8. Medical support

Emergencies of a medical nature need not involve more than one victim. Your actions during
the crucial first minutes following serious injury can save lives. The following should be your
priorities until help arrives:

♦ Summon Emergency Medical Help, Police officers will be dispatched, the Health Clinic
will be dispatched and an ambulance requested. Stay with the victim while someone
else calls for help.
♦ Breathing: If necessary, begin mouth-to-mouth breathing which is explained in the
program “Conduct basic first aid.
♦ Circulation: Check for a pulse. If no pulse, begin CPR (if knowledgeable).
♦ Bleeding: Apply direct pressure and elevation to stop persistent bleeding. Use the cleanest
cloth you can find.
♦ Neck or spinal injuries: Do not move victim unless absolutely necessary.
♦ Other health problems: Check victim for emergency medical ID tags and/or medications.
When medical help arrives turn this information over to them.
♦ Do not give food or liquids: An unconscious or semi-conscious victim cannot
swallow and could suffocate.
♦ STAY CALM: Reassure the victim and stay calm yourself.

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EXAMPLE OF AN EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLAN

27
9. Emergency Signs/signals

In the event of an evacuation employees should adhere to the following signals. The signals
will indicate assembling points, fire exits etc.

Disabled fire exit arrow right Disabled fire exit arrow down right

Fire exit arrow down Fire exit arrow up

Fire exit arrow down left Fire exit arrow up right Fire exit arrow up

Keep fire exit clear

Assembly point

Alarm sign

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 UNIT STANDARD
Conduct evacuations and emergency drills
SAQA US UNIT STANDARD TITLE
ID
242825 Conduct evacuations and emergency drills
ORIGINATOR ORIGINATING PROVIDER
SGB Security
QUALITY ASSURING BODY
-
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 08 - Law, Military Science and Security Safety in Society
ABET UNIT STANDARD OLD NQF LEVEL NEW NQF LEVEL CREDITS
BAND TYPE
Undefined Regular Level 4 NQF Level 04 4
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START REGISTRATION END SAQA DECISION
DATE DATE NUMBER
Reregistered 2009-11-03 2012-06-30 SAQA 0160/05
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2013-06-30 2016-06-30

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD

The person credited with this unit standard will be able to identify and determine the type of an emergency
and assist with the evacuation of people during the emergency. The person will also be able to respond to and
use emergency signals within their own area of responsibility.

The qualifying learner will be capable of:

• Identifying the emergency situation.

• Assisting with an evacuation drill.
• Responding to emergency signals in own area of responsibility.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

• Communication at NQF Level 3.
• Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 3.

UNIT STANDARD RANGE

Emergency signals may include but are not limited to:
• Alarm, silent panic, duress, telecomm, medial, fire.

Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria:

SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1
Identify the emergency situation.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1
The nature of the emergency is identified to inform further action.

29
ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2
The emergency is prioritised and graded in order to determine evacuation drills and or emergency signals to be
used.

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3
Information regarding the emergency is collated for relaying purposes.
ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE
Relaying purposes includes the referral to the designated responsible individual.

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4
Continued threat and risk assessments are conducted in own area of responsibility.

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5
Crime reduction information is collated in accordance with confidentiality guidelines and procedures.

SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2
Assist with an evacuation drill.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1
Emergency and non-emergency signals and incidents are responded to in accordance with workplace
procedures.

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2
Confrontations during an evacuation drill are dealt with in accordance with proportionality of force principles.
ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE
Confrontations refer to both: potentially lethal and non-lethal confrontations.

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3
Manners in which to provide victim support are explained in line with legal prescripts.
ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE
Legal prescripts include but are not limited to Chapter Two: Bill of Rights in the South African Constitution.

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4
Emergency services and official institution liaison are identified for actioning according to contingency plans.

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5
Administrative requirements pertaining to emergencies are described in terms of reporting functions and their
influence on the criminal justice system.
ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE
Administrative requirements could include but are not limited to: report completion, giving evidence in court.

SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3
Respond to emergency signals in own area of responsibility.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1
Physical responses to emergency signals and or incidents are explained in terms of their influence on the
safeguarding of assets.
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ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE
• Physical responses may include but are not limited to: movement and approach, techniques on approaching,
premises, buildings and rooms.

• Assets include but are not limited to the public, clients, public and client property.

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2
Emergency signals are reacted to in accordance with standard operating procedures and within the required
time frame.

UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS

• An individual wishing to be assessed (including through RPL) against this Unit Standard may apply to an
assessment agency, assessor or provider institution accredited by the relevant ETQA, or an ETQA that has a
Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.

• Anyone assessing a learner against this Unit Standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant
ETQA or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.

• Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this Unit Standard or assessing this Unit
Standard must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of
Understanding with the relevant ETQA.

• Moderation of assessment will be conducted by the relevant ETQA at its discretion.

UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE

• Use and maintenance of emergency equipment.
• Emergency techniques (search, fire fighting, first aid, recognition procedures, radio and telephone
procedures).
• Differences between emergency and non-emergency situations.
• Police and emergency services and structures.
• Risk and threat assessment procedures.

UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME

N/A

UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES

N/A

Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO):

UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING

Identify and solve problems related to the prioritising/grading of emergencies and safety incidents.

UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING

Organise oneself and one's activities so that the safe, clam and orderly evacuation of people is conducted.

31
UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING
Collect, organise and critically evaluate information related to the emergency in order to prioritise the
information correctly.

UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING

Communicate effectively when assisting in the evacuation of people from the scene.

UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING

Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems whereby the effective implementation
of evaluation plan will minimise the threat to lives and property.

32
 LEARNER WORKBOOK SECTION
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT (OPEN BOOK EXAM)

CONDUCT EVACUATIONS AND EMERGENCY DRILLS

UNIT STANDARD 242825

Full Name and Surname: ___________________________________________

ID Number: ___________________ Date of Assessment: ______________

Name of Assessor: _______________________________________________

Learner Signature: _______________ Assessor Signature: ______________

Pass mark is 70% (82 out of 118)

Competent: Not Yet Competent:

SKILLS PROGRAM 2
BOOK 2
33
1. Fill in the missing words: (3 Marks)
An emergency has been defined as "an _____________ that can harm the __________________
requiring _______________________ action".

2. What is the aim of emergency planning? (2 Marks)

3. List the 3 (three) goals of emergency planning. (3 Marks)

4. List the 3 (three) types of emergencies. (3 Marks)

5. List 5 (five) examples of emergencies. (5 Marks)

6. List 4 (four) reasons why security guards should be involved in emergency planning. (4 Marks)

7. List the 5 (five) steps in risk assessment. (5 Marks)

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8. List the 5 (five) steps in the emergency planning process. (5 Marks)

9. What is the title of the person in charge of any emergency on site? (chain of command)
(1 Mark)

10. List 5 (five) responsibilities of the emergency controller. (5 Marks)

11. List 5 (five) responsibilities of the emergency team. (5 Marks)

12. List 3 (three) of the duties of the co-ordinators. (3 Marks)

13. Communication with external sources of response/support is essential. List 5 (five) of these
agencies/external sources. (5 Marks)

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14. Depending on the emergency and the time available, shut down procedures should make
provision for quick and basic steps to be followed in a limited time frame. List 5 (five) of these
steps. (5 Marks)

15. When given the order to evacuate, where should personnel evacuate to? (1 Mark)

16. List 5 (five) functions of assembly points. (5 Marks)

17. Name 5 (five) specific responsibilities of security officials during emergencies. (5 Marks)

18. Is the following statement true or false? (1 Mark)

Lawsuits cannot be brought against security company for the inappropriate actions of staff, in
particular security personnel, in handling disturbance issues (e.g., altercations, rowdy behaviour and
fights), in ejecting customers, and in making arrests.

19. List 3 (three) threats security staff are often exposed to while dealing with emergency functions.
(3 Marks)

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20. What information will a security officer record in the occurrence book? (5 Marks)

21. When receiving a bomb threat you should encourage the caller to give certain information. List
4 (four). (4 Marks)

22. Name 2 (two) types of evacuation. (2 Marks)

23. Give 2 (two) advantages of partial evacuation. (2 Marks)

24. List the steps that general staff will follow when they discover a fire which they cannot
extinguish. (4 Marks)

25. Is the following statement true or false? (1 Mark)

Persons suffering mobility impairment or other impairment that would impact, or could possibly
impact, on their safe and speedy evacuation have a legislative obligation to communicate the
nature of the impairment to the emergency team leader or their supervisor prior to any event
which may require evacuation.

26. Who will make the decision to evacuate in case of a bomb threat? (1 Mark)

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27. May a person refuse to comply with emergency instructions? (1 Mark)

28. List 8 (eight) golden rules to consider during an evacuation. (8 Marks)

29. What are the standard operating procedures for emergencies in general? List the 7 steps.
(7 Marks)

30. What is a “primary” victim? (1 Mark)

31. List 5 (five) rights that cannot be limited at all, even during a state of emergency. (5 Marks)

32. List 3 (three) “priorities” when giving medical support during emergencies. (3 Marks)

38
33. What does an emergency signal/sign indicate? (2 Marks)

34. What do the following signs mean? (3 Marks)

a)

b)

c)

TOTAL MARKS ___________________

118

39