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Joint Health & Safety Policy for a Nova Scotia Fire Department

Purpose:

This policy establishes guidelines for the health and safety of all firefighters and staff within the Nova Scotia Fire Department. It outlines the department’s commitment to providing a safe and healthy working environment.

Scope:

This policy applies to all firefighters, staff, volunteers, and contractors associated with the Nova Scotia Fire Department.

General Principles:

  • Prevention: The department is committed to preventing accidents and injuries.
  • Consultation: Firefighters and staff will be consulted on health and safety matters.
  • Training: All personnel will receive adequate training on health and safety procedures.
  • Investigation: All accidents and incidents will be investigated to prevent recurrence.
  • Compliance: The department will comply with all applicable health and safety regulations, including those specific to firefighting operations in Nova Scotia.

Specific Requirements:

  1. Risk Assessment:

    • Regular risk assessments will be conducted to identify and evaluate potential hazards, including those specific to firefighting operations.
    • Appropriate control measures will be implemented to eliminate or minimize risks.

  2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

    • The department will provide appropriate PPE, including fire turnout gear, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and other necessary equipment.
    • Firefighters must wear PPE as required.

  3. Workplace Environment:

    • Fire stations and other facilities will be maintained in a clean and orderly condition.
    • Adequate lighting, ventilation, and temperature control will be provided.

  4. First Aid:

    • First aid kits will be readily available in designated areas.
    • All firefighters will be trained in basic first aid procedures.

  5. Emergency Procedures:

    • Emergency procedures, including evacuation plans and contact information for emergency services, will be developed and communicated to all personnel.
    • Regular drills will be conducted to ensure personnel are familiar with emergency procedures.

  6. Hazardous Substances:

    • The handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous substances will be managed in accordance with relevant regulations.
    • Firefighters will receive training on the safe use and handling of hazardous substances.

  7. Mental Health:

    • The department recognizes the importance of mental health and will provide support to firefighters and staff who may be experiencing stress or other mental health issues.

  8. Violence Prevention:

    • The department will implement measures to prevent workplace violence, such as training firefighters and staff on de-escalation techniques and developing protocols for responding to threats.

  9. Reporting Accidents and Incidents:

    • All accidents and incidents must be reported to a supervisor or designated representative.
    • Investigations will be conducted to determine the cause of the incident and to prevent future occurrences.

  10. Respiratory Protection:

  • The department will have a respiratory protection program in place to ensure that firefighters are properly trained and equipped to use SCBA and other respiratory protection devices.
  1. Thermal Imaging Cameras (TICs):
  • The department will have a policy for the use of TICs to enhance situational awareness and reduce the risk of thermal injuries.
  1. Vehicle Safety:
  • The department will have policies and procedures in place for the safe operation and maintenance of fire apparatus.
  1. Post-Incident Rehabilitation:
  • The department will implement a post-incident rehabilitation program to ensure that firefighters receive proper physical and psychological recovery after incidents.

Employee Responsibilities:

  • Comply with all health and safety rules and procedures.
  • Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to a supervisor.
  • Use PPE as required.
  • Participate in safety training and drills.
  • Take reasonable care of their own safety and the safety of others.

Management Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement health and safety policies and procedures.
  • Provide adequate resources for health and safety initiatives.
  • Ensure that personnel receive appropriate training.
  • Investigate accidents and incidents.
  • Monitor compliance with health and safety regulations.

Review and Updates:

This policy will be reviewed annually or as needed to ensure its continued effectiveness. Any changes will be communicated to all personnel.

Disclaimer:

This is a general template and may not address all specific health and safety requirements for your fire department. It is recommended to consult with legal and health and safety professionals to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations in Nova Scotia.

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Health & Safety Forms

Workplace Accident Investigation Policy (Generic) [Citation].docx (2.0 MB)

WCB Policy Man - PDF.pdf (1.9 MB)

Injury Report - WCB Nova Scotia.pdf
 (1.4 MB)

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Business Toolkit_April 2015.pdf (890.5 KB)

Sample Workplace Inspection Checklist R.pdf (386.5 KB)