In an emergency, every person on site must reach the designated muster point quickly and be accounted for. If the roll call is inaccurate, emergency services may risk their lives searching for people who are not actually missing. Knowing where to go and what to do during an evacuation is essential for everyone on site, including visitors and delivery drivers.
Key Hazards
Missing persons unaccounted for delaying emergency service response
Workers going to the wrong muster point causing confusion
Visitors and delivery drivers not included in the site roll call
Re-entry into a dangerous area before the all-clear is given
Control Measures
Ensure the muster point location is clearly signed and communicated during every site induction.
Maintain an accurate daily register of all persons on site including visitors and delivery drivers.
Conduct practice emergency drills at least every six months or when the site layout changes significantly.
Appoint trained fire wardens and marshals to sweep areas and direct people to the muster point.
Use a head count and register check at the muster point to confirm all persons are accounted for.
Brief visitors on the muster point location and emergency procedure before they enter the work area.
Ensure the muster point is at a safe distance from buildings, plant, and stored materials.
Do not allow anyone to re-enter the site until the site manager gives the formal all-clear.
Review and update the emergency plan whenever the site layout or access routes change.
Remember
Go directly to the designated muster point when the evacuation alarm sounds
Every person on site must be included in the roll call including visitors
Do not re-enter the site for any reason until the formal all-clear is given
Know the location of your muster point from your first day on site
Practice drills must be carried out at least every six months on active sites
Applicable Legislation: Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 · CDM 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · MHSWR 1999