Waste management specialist B&M has launched its very own ‘first response’ fire engine.
The Wirral headquartered firm has invested £40,000 in the vehicle, which has been specially converted from its original use as a mobile drainage cleaning unit.
B&M has worked closely with the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service’s (MF&RS) Training and Development Academy to adapt the appliance and also provide full fire safety training for a number of staff.
The bright-red fire engine is a proactive response by B&M to implement stringent fire control systems at its Bromborough waste and recycling centre. Any on-site fires can now be dealt with confidently and competently by trained staff prior to attendance by the Fire and Rescue Service.
Mick Ashall, Director at B&M, said: “This innovative piece of equipment offers our very own instant response should a fire arise, and given Government cut-backs this protects both the health and safety of our staff and local environment, and business continuity as a whole.
“B&M is a responsible company and we understand the potential fire and health hazards surrounding waste materials. Therefore we felt it vital to raise our own levels of safety and of the training of our employees.
“We are grateful to the support of the MF&RS, who advised us on the project and have provided excellent training to our designated fire marshals. While our staff do not have the skills or knowledge of trained firefighters, they now have the ability to provide an immediate response before handing over to the professionals.
“Fire safety and response is crucial across the industry and we are looking to replicate this model of Fire Control systems at our Manchester site in the near future.”
MF&RS visited B&M Waste Services to review the converted appliance and identify the types of fires and potential risks to operatives. A bespoke training plan was created and delivered to nine B&M fire marshals, which included risk management, theory and practical use of the appliance.
Suzanne Waite, from the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service Training and Development Academy, said: “The bespoke training delivered has given the Fire Marshals the knowledge, understanding and skills to prevent or reduce the risk of incidents, such as fires, occurring on the site. This, in turn, helps us work towards the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service mission statement of ‘Safer Stronger Communities, Safer Effective Firefighters’. Hopefully, MF&RS and B&M Waste Management will continue to work together to build a professional working relationship.
“We provide a range of training and courses at the Training and Development Academy. Any business interested in the Fire Marshal or any other course can contact us on 0151 2965000 or visit our websitewww.merseyfiretraining.co.uk”
B&M’s new fire engine has been converted to provide:
Mick Ashall added: “We still have plenty to do and remain in close contact with the Fire and Rescue Service for both training and site reviews, along with advice and guidance from our insurers.”
