BOV Fire Marshals receive fire safety training

Bank of Valletta fire marshals recently received fire-safety training. This consisted of an in-depth course on fire risk assessment at the place of work, as well as in the use of fire-fighting equipment.

The training programme focused on fire hazards that may be present at the workplace and basic fire prevention techniques. This was followed by practical sessions about the evacuation of premises as well as the use of fire-fighting equipment such as portable fireextinguishers and hose-reels.

“At Bank of Valletta, the health and safety of both our people and customers is of utmost importance,” explained Alfred Debattista, manager Health and Safety. “The bank appoints fire marshals at every branch and unit across our retail network. Our traning regime is aimed at ensuring that they have the necessary knowledge to ensure the working environ- ment is safe and hazard free. In addition, we ensure that should a fire occur, the appointed officials are well-equipped to lead their colleauges and customers to safety. Through regular training, we ensure that they have the necessary skills and are conversant with the most efficient procedure to ensure the safety of the people on the premises, advise the authorities and if safe to do so, attempt to extinguish the fire.”

Mr Debattista also confirmed that all Bank of Valletta units are equipped with state-of-the-art fire detection sensors and different types of fire-extinguishers to be able to tackle different classes of fires. “The bank also holds regular fire evacuation drills at BOV Centre in Santa Venera and across its retail network, so as to ensure that everyone is familiar with escape routes and standard safety procedures,” he concluded.