Lodwar, 20th May, 2024

The County Government of Turkana has rolled out a workplace safety program aimed at equipping staff with essential fire response skills across all departments.

The program, to be spearheaded by the Municipalities and Urban Areas Management unit, is expected to enhance safety and preparedness for possible fire outbreaks at the workplace.

The first session of the program was conducted with staff from the Department of Finance where participants were trained on evacuation protocols, personal safety measures, basic first aid, effective communication during fire outbreaks, and proper use of designated fire exit paths and gathering areas.

Chief Officer for Municipalities and Urban Areas Management, Epae Derrick, highlighted the significance of the training sessions, stressing that fire incidences in the workplace were a real possibility.

“We aim to ensure that every staff member is well prepared to handle fire emergencies when they occur at the workplace. The participative approach used in the training maximizes the retention and application of the skills learned,” Chief Officer Epae Derrick explained.

On his part, Chief Officer for Finance, James Ilikwel, lauded the initiative saying that the department will fully implement the recommended safety measures by the trainers.

According to Chief Ilikwel James, all safety areas will be properly marked and exit routes from fire emergencies at the Finance office will be made accessible as advised.

This marks the first time the County is undertaking fire safety training, aligning with Occupational Safety Standards. The training will be rolled out to all departments before the lapse of the current 2023-2024 year.