UNELCO tests emergency response with full-scale fire drill

UNELCO ENGIE has reaffirmed its commitment to workplace safety and emergency preparedness after conducting a full-scale fire emergency drill at its Tagabe Power Station.

The annual exercise, held on Wednesday, June 24, brought together the Port Vila Fire Service, ProMedical first responders, and CAPSE, a specialist organisation in risk prevention, emergency preparedness, and fire safety training.

The exercise simulated a fire outbreak within the power station, allowing emergency responders and UNELCO staff to test their response under realistic conditions.

According to UNELCO, the drill “was carefully planned to test UNELCO’s emergency response procedures under realistic conditions.”

During the simulation, two employees were designated as casualties and received treatment from ProMedical teams acting as on-site first responders, while firefighters were deployed to contain and stabilise the simulated fire. All employees were also evacuated in accordance with the company’s safety procedures.

UNELCO said the exercise went beyond responding to the simulated incident, providing “an important opportunity to assess the effectiveness of alert systems, evacuation procedures, communication channels, and coordination mechanisms between UNELCO teams and external emergency services.”

The company said the drill also helped identify areas where emergency preparedness and response capabilities could be further strengthened.

“Regular emergency drills are an essential investment in preparedness and prevention,” the company stated.

“By continuously reviewing procedures, training personnel, testing equipment, and strengthening partnerships with emergency services, the company enhances its ability to respond efficiently and effectively should a real emergency occur.”

UNELCO said initiatives such as the annual fire drill demonstrate its ongoing commitment to safety across its operations.

“Through initiatives such as this, UNELCO reaffirms its commitment to the safety of its employees, partners, and surrounding communities,” the company said.

It added that “maintaining a strong culture of safety remains a core priority for the company, ensuring that teams are prepared and ready to respond to any emergency situation.”

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