OHS DEPARTMENT COLLABORATES WITH VAAL TRIANGLE FIRE SERVICES TO CONDUCT FIRE SAFETY DEMONSTRATIONS
By Themba Nyovane 25 August 2022
Students participating in demonstrations conducted by OHS department and VTFS
On Wednesday, 17 August 2022, the VUT Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) department collaborated with the Vaal Triangle Fire Services (VTFS) to host an outdoor fire safety demonstration to VUT Safety Management students.
The aim of the demonstration was to equip students with skills such as:
- Using correct fire equipment in case of an emergency,
- Raising the alarm and implementing a safe working environment,
- Gaining in-depth knowledge about the different fire types, and
- Preventing a fire outbreak
The primary audience for the demonstrations were final year Diploma in Safety Management students.
Safety Officer, Mr Mokgele Tsiu stated that it is important for students to know the importance of safety measures as most would be exposed to safety hazards within the working environment and business sector.
To illustrate the point, Mr Rodney Baird a VTFS representative demonstrated to students on how to use fire equipment correctly within residences; this includes using fire extinguishers, raising alarms, and preventing fire blazes. Mr Baird, added that discovering a fire early increases the chance of containing or even extinguishing it. He added that raising the alarm by reporting the fire outbreak quickly and decisively to protection services will help to reduce the damage.
Mr Rodney Baird a VTFS representative
Students were urged to avoid incorrect usage of fire equipment without any fire emergency. The application of fire hazards is crucial for any organization, and designated signs should be followed. Therefore, it is incumbent upon students to protect fire equipment that has been installed for their safety and should use it when a fire has been reported or is suspected.
Mr Baird also explained that their role within VUT facilities includes installation of fire extinguishers on premises and auditing of the fire equipment.
In closing, the VUT OHS department shared safety tips for consideration in case of fire:
- Students must always have emergency telephone numbers
- Students need to be aware of emergency assembly points around the site and campus, and
- Students should never play with or damage firefighting equipment.
