In an emergency, every second counts. Having quick access to comprehensive and accurate information can be the difference between timely intervention and a delayed response. This is why Premises Information Boxes (or secure information boxes) have become a regulatory requirement, and why the development of a ‘PIBs plan’, or Emergency Response Pack, is so important to building safety.

What is a PIB?

Designed by Gerda Security Ltd, PIBs provide a secure and accessible place for storing vital information that the Fire and Rescue Service can use to understand the layout and specific risks of a building quickly.

What is a PIBs Plan?

A PIB (Premises Information Box, alternatively a ‘secure information box’) provides immediate access to vital information for the Fire and Rescue Service. The PIB is key to the strategic planning and execution of emergency operations, ensuring that responders have the data they need to respond appropriately at their fingertips in an emergency.

Detailed PIB plans are stored in a secure, but easily accessible, location with the use of a Gerda Security PIB. The PIBs plan includes layouts, hazardous material details, access points, and other critical information that aids firefighters in executing their duties effectively and safely.

The Importance of a PIBs Plan for Accountable Persons

For principal accountable persons and accountable persons within the UK, understanding and implementing PIB plans is crucial for compliance and safety. These plans are carefully designed to ensure that during an emergency, response teams are not hindered by lack of information, allowing them to make informed decisions swiftly.

The Components of a PIBs plan

A PIBs plan, developed with Gerda Security’s 18 years of experience in creating Emergency Response Packs for firefighters, includes critical elements to aid effective emergency response. These elements are designed to provide comprehensive, actionable information upon arrival at the scene, ensuring that emergency services can operate efficiently and safely. Here’s what is included:

Building Layouts and Access Points

• Detailed floor plans and vertical sections of all floors (with flat numbers) provide a precise overview of the building’s structure.
• Quick-reference materials that offer immediate orientation to the site, including a summary of key access points, and initial safety assessment notes.

Resident Safety Information

• Comprehensive details regarding the building’s occupancy, including any special considerations for residents with mobility issues or other vulnerabilities.

Fire Fighting Facilities and Equipment

• Detailed information about specific firefighting equipment located on-site, such as types and locations of hydrants, extinguishers, fire blankets, and specialised suppression systems.

Significant Fire Safety Issues

• An overview of major fire safety concerns specific to the building, such as areas prone to higher risks or previous incidents.
• Clearly marked locations and detailed descriptions of hazardous materials are included to facilitate quick identification.

By incorporating these detailed components into a PIBs plan, Gerda Security ensures that emergency responders have access to vital, structured information that enhances their ability to protect lives and property effectively.

Creating and Maintaining PIB Plans

Developing a PIBs plan requires a thorough understanding of the building’s design and potential fire safety risks. It is essential for accountable persons to collaborate with fire safety experts and local fire services to ensure that all aspects of the building are covered. Regular updates and reviews of the PIB plans are also crucial, as changes to building layouts or functionalities can affect the accuracy of the information provided to emergency services.

By maintaining an up-to-date and readily accessible PIBs plan, buildings not only enhance their compliance with safety regulations but also contribute significantly to the safety and well-being of their occupants and emergency personnel.

The PIB Code of Practice

The PIB code of practice, created by the FIA and NFCC, is a set of guidelines that outlines the best practices for setting up and maintaining a PIB. It ensures that all necessary information is available in a standardised format, making it easily accessible and usable by emergency personnel.

This code of practice covers:

• Documentation Standards: What documents should be included and how they should be presented and updated.
• Installation and Location: Guidelines on where the PIB should be installed to ensure visibility and accessibility.
• Maintenance Protocols: Establishing bases for regular checks and updates to the PIB’s contents to ensure information is current and accurate.

The Gerda Security Products Emergency Response Pack Service is compliant with the FIA and NFCC Code of Practice, and the PIB plans used in the document as examples are Gerda Security Product plans. Choosing Gerda’s Emergency Response Pack service ensures compliant and efficient PIB plans.

Does Your Building Need an Updated PIBs Plan?

Implementing a robust PIB plan is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of the premises in the event of a fire or other emergencies. Further, this organised information for emergency responders is mandatory for regulatory compliance. With a well-maintained PIB, accountable persons can significantly enhance the efficacy of emergency responses.

At Gerda Security, we are dedicated to helping you develop and maintain a PIB plan that exceeds the highest standards of clarity and compliance. By partnering with us, you ensure that your building’s safety protocols are thorough and effective.

Reach out to Gerda Security today for more detailed information on how to implement and maintain effective PIB plans tailored to your specific needs. Ensure your building is equipped with the necessary tools to enhance safety and facilitate efficient emergency responses.