CFRA – Fire and Rescue Service Operational guidance Operational Risk Information, 2012

Foreword

The availability of relevant and timely information is recognised as critical to the successful management of all operational incidents attended by any Fire and Rescue Service in England. The Fire and Rescue Service Operational Guidance – Operational Risk Information provides robust yet flexible guidance on developing and maintaining a consistent approach to managing, processing and using strategic and tactical operational risk information that can be adapted to the nature, scale and requirements of the individual Fire and Rescue Service. It is anticipated that this guidance will promote common principles, practices and procedures that will support national resilience and interoperability and enable the Fire and Rescue Service and other emergency responders to resolve operational incidents safely and efficiently. The Chief Fire and Rescue Adviser is grateful for the assistance in the development in this guidance from a wide range of sources, including the Fire and Rescue Service and other emergency responders.

Preface

The objective of the Fire and Rescue Service Operational Guidance – Operational Risk Information is to provide a consistency of approach that forms the basis for common operational practices, supporting interoperability between Fire and Rescue Services and other emergency responders. These common principles, practices and procedures are intended to support the development of safe systems of work on the incident ground and to enhance national resilience. Operational Guidance issued by the Department for Communities and Local Government promotes and develops good practice within the Fire and Rescue Service and is offered as a current industry standard. It is envisaged that this will help establish high standards of efficiency and safety in the interests of employers, employees and the general public. The Guidance, which is compiled using the best sources of information known at the date of issue, is intended for use by competent persons. The application of the guidance does not remove the need for appropriate technical and managerial judgement in practical situations with due regard to local circumstances, nor does it confer any immunity or exemption from relevant legal requirements, including bylaws. Those investigating compliance with the law may refer to this guidance as illustrating an industry standard. It is a matter for each individual Fire and Rescue Service whether to adopt and follow this operational guidance. The onus of responsibility for application of guidance lies with the user. The Department for Communities and Local Government accept no legal liability or responsibility whatsoever, howsoever arising, for the consequences of the use or misuse of the guidance.