In observance of South Africa’s National Month of Deaf People, September 2023, we at Elite Fire Protection are enhancing fire safety awareness. Addressing a critical and obvious gap in South Africa, our inclusive Fire Safety Tip Checklist educates employers, landlords and Property Managers in the workplace about the unique needs of the hearing impaired. Prioritise safety and inclusivity.
Join us in spreading this life-saving information!
Fire Safety Checklist
| SAFETY TIPS | Tick Applicable |
| Sounder beacons are installed (fixed or movable)* | |
| Sounder beacons are in private & quiet spaces such as toilets/bathrooms, prayer or sick rooms, and isolated meeting rooms. | |
| Sounder beacons are in public areas such as canteens and kitchens | |
| Sounder beacons are installed in loud environments within the warehouse* | |
| Fire Marshall’s have been informed of people with hearing impairment | |
| Evacuation training has been provided to people with hearing impairment | |
| Fire Safety signs are visible and have been explained | |
| A buddy system has been established for emergencies | |
| Person(s) with hearing impairment informs line manager daily of presence or absence at work. | |
| Instructions are displayed and visible in a lift with clear instructions on what to do in an emergency |
Important Recommendation to Consider
- If you do not have any people with hearing impairment in your workplace, be mindful of visitors that enter your premises or future employees that may be employed by your company.
- Property Managers and landlords should be aware that while a current office or warehousing tenant may not have employees with hearing impairment, future tenants may and it is therefore worthwhile to consider installing.
- Establish a buddy system in the event of an emergency. Ensure your employee knows who their colleague is that will be assisting them.
- Fire Marshalls are important to guide people out of the building. It is important for them to know who the person(s) is with hearing impairment.
- Always use stock from a reputable supplier to ensure effective devices are purchased and installed.
- Ensure fire equipment is serviced at regular intervals as per the regulations.
Please note that visual alarm signals need to be used to supplement audible alarm signals in situations in which the latter are likely to be ineffective, but normally ought not be used on their own.
