Development of standard operational procedures for the special response unit

Abstract

The frequency of occurrence of Natural and Man made Disasters and Emergencies that affects human life and properties have increased during last few years in Sri Lanka and all over the world. Preparedness for the disaster has become vital important since eradication or total prevention is always impossible. Awareness among the general public and quick response for the disasters and emergencies will minimize loss of human lives and damages to the properties. With the aim of responding to disasters and emergencies within a short period of time it was decided to establish a Special Response Unit in Colombo manning with the trained fire officers of the Colombo Fire Brigade. The members of the Special Response Unit have been trained well in locally and overseas with experience of using high technology apparatus for wide range of disasters and emergencies. Further the need of having standard operational procedures for possible disasters and emergencies was identified. Urban search and rescue, Basic life support for casualties of a large disaster, hazardous chemical incidents, road traffic accidents will be the incidents which has to be responded by the members of the Special Response Unit. Several cases were studied to find the weakness of the current system and essential improvements to be done. The prepared SOPs were validated by the Chief fire officer, members of the Special Response Unit and high rank officers at the fire station.