KUCHING, May 3: The Emergency Response Team (ERT) must always be prepared and ready to go when crisis strikes.
The role of an organisation’s ERT is crucial as they are the first to take immediate action in the event of an emergency, said Sarawak Fire and Rescue (Bomba) director Khirudin Drahman.
“The efficiency and effectiveness of ERT in any organisation will actually determine the severity of the incident.
“This applies not just to the organisation itself, but also its surrounding. When organisations are not ready to deal with emergencies, which can happen anytime and anywhere, that will make the situation worse,” he pointed out at the Bomba Fire Safety Organisation competition recently.
Expressing gratitude to the 500 participants from 53 agencies that took part in the competition, Khirudin said these organisations had shown the support and commitment in assisting Bomba by setting up their respective ERT.
“They have showed the commitment in minimising the chance of an untoward incident from happening. Fast action response is a must because during any emergency, even a small incident can turn into a crisis if no proper actions are taken to control it,” he continued.
The competition also acted as a platform to measure the organisation’s competence in ERT.
Previously, ERT’s competencies were not assessed, but now, with yearly competitions, the teams are able to see their own strength and weaknesses, which they can also improve on. At the same time, the meet enabled ERTs to share ideas with friends and colleagues within or outside their organisations.
“In addition, ERT is also a sort of recognition entrusted by employers to their employees for being the ‘important’ persons who know how to safeguard the assets from fire incidents or accidents in their respective organisations. In return, this will motivate the employees,” Khirudin said.
During the competition, Bau Palm Oil Mill (BAPOM) ERT team emerged as the overall champion.
The team was also placed first in the fireman lift and “kawad campuran basah 300 kaki” (mixed-marching), while Kuching Port Authority was the champion in fire operations and equipment.
Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation placed first in the iron man category. — DayakDaily
