Chapter 7 Preventing Losses from Accidents and Emergencies

Accident Responsibility  Security managers are often responsible for accident prevention programs as one means to prevent losses and protect assets.

OSHA  Since the passage of OSHA, the security function has gradually expanded to include specific safety responsibilities.  OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, was established to administer the Occupational Safety and Health Act.  The Act seeks to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for every employee in the nation.

OSHA Record Requirements  Employers covered by the Acts are required to:  (1) keep a log of all occupational injuries, accidents and illnesses.  (2) compile an annual summary of the log’s information.

Accident Causes and Preventions  95% of all accidents (on or off the job) are caused by human error, especially lack of safety consciousness.  Accidents can be prevented by:  (1) removing hazards.  (2) using protective equipment.  (3) making employees aware of hazards that cannot be removed.  (4) following good housekeeping practices.

Civil Disturbances, Riots and Strikes  In the event of civil disturbances, riots or strikes, the security manager is responsible for maintaining order and protecting lives and assets.

Bomb Defense  Access control.  Orderliness.  Regular inspections.

Bomb Threats  To be prepared for a bomb threat:  (1) teach personnel how to talk to person making threat and whom to notify.  (2) determine who makes decision on whether to evacuate and, if evacuation is necessary, how personnel are to be informed and what they are to do.  (3) have a plan that specifies how to search for bomb and what to do if one is found.

Bomb Threats  The receiver of a bomb threat should:  Keep the caller talking as long as possible.  Try to learn as much as possible about bomb, especially when it will go off and where it is located.  Try to determine caller’s sex, age, accent and speech pattern, and whether the person is drugged or drunk.  Listen for background noises.  Immediately notify appropriate person(s) of call.

Fire Elements  The fire triangle consists of 3 elements necessary for burning:  (1) heat.  (2) fuel.  (3) oxygen.

Fire Classification  The National Fire Protection Association has established 4 classifications of fires:  Class A--ordinary combustible materials such as paper, packing boxes, wood and cloth.  Class B--flammable liquids such as gasoline or oil.  Class C--energized electrical installations, appliances and wiring.  Class D--combustible materials such as magnesium, sodium and potassium (exotic metal fires).

Fire Prevention  Fires can be prevented by:  (1) reducing fire-loading.  (2) properly storing and handling flammable materials.  (3) enforcing no-smoking regulations.  (4) using proper wiring.  (5) following good housekeeping practices.  Access controls can lesson the chance of arson.

Fire Equipment  Protection from fires is provided by:  (1) detectors and alarms.  (2) properly marked and sufficient exits, fire doors and fire escapes.  (3) fire-resistive safes and vaults.  (4) fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems and an adequate, accessible water supply.

Fire Detectors  Ionization detectors respond to invisible particles of combustion.  Photoelectric detectors respond to smoke.  Infrared detectors respond to flame.  Thermal detectors respond to heat, usually temperatures in excess of 125 degrees F.

Water and Class A Fire Extinguishers  These should never be used:  (1) on energized electric equipment (Class C fires), because the electric charge can follow the water stream to the holder, causing instant electrocution.  (2) on a Class B fire, because it can splatter the burning oil or gasoline, spreading the fire to a larger area instead of extinguishing it.

Fire Loss Protections  Always call for help before attempting to extinguish a fire.  Teach employees what to do in case of a fire.  Have and practice a plan for evacuation, shutting doors and windows and using stairs rather than elevators.

Responsibilities with a Fire  Security manager responsibilities with a fire:  Have a plan, take charge and stay calm.  Take immediate action to protect lives first, assets second.  Sound the alarm; alert fire department.  Attempt to control blaze if not out of hand.  Turn central air and machinery off, leave lights on.

More Fire Responsibilities  Close all doors and elevators.  Ground all elevators.  Provide traffic control.  Direct fire fighters to location of fire.  Time permitting, remove highly combustible stock and valuables.  Cover expensive merchandise or equipment, such as computers, with a tarp to prevent water damage.  Move company cars and other vehicles away.  Administer first aid.

Natural Disaster Plans  Papi’s 4-step approach:  (1) Risk assessment.  (2) Prioritize risks.  (3) Prepare for various scenarios.  (4) Prepare a recovery plan.  Natural disasters necessitating a contingency plan might include floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and/or earthquakes.

Summary Questions  Why is accident prevention a security responsibility?  What is OSHA and how does it relate to private security? What record does OSHA require?  What causes the vast majority of accidents? How can they be prevented or reduced?

Summary Questions  What is security’s role during civil disturbances, riots and strikes?  What are the primary defenses against bombs?  How can a bomb threat be prepared for? Received? Acted on?  What 3 elements are required for a fire to occur?

Summary Questions  How are fires classified?  How can fires be prevented?  What equipment can help protect lives and assets from fire?  What types of fire detectors are available?  When should water and a Class A fire extinguisher not be used?  What procedures help protect against loss by fire?  What are the security manager’s responsibilities in the event of a fire?  What natural disaster plans should be formulated?