Trainer states to trainees evacuation drills are an important part of staff training in emergency responses and there is a need to conduct an ‘initial’ drill as well as ‘on-going’ drills (covered later).
Trainer explains to trainees the initial drill is vital to:
Test the evacuation plan – does it work? Does it operate as intended, expected or planned?
Trial the primary evacuation routes – to ensure they are viable
Time how long it takes to evacuate the building or area – to determine if time taken is acceptable
Allow staff to implement their allocated roles and discharge their nominated responsibilities – to gain experience with what they are expected to do
Discharge duty of care obligations – to prove the venue took appropriate action regarding foreseeable harm
Observe implementation of procedures – with a view to revising and or confirming plans.