Control measure
Apply cordons and control for utilities or fuel
Control measure knowledge
For generic information on cordons and control, refer to National Operational Guidance: Incident command - Structuring an incident.
Numerous cordon distances are appropriate for electricity, gas and fuel. Guidance about distances relevant to electrical sources are included in the control measure - Safe System of work: High-voltage electricity.
Cordon distances for gas and fuel are given in National Operational Guidance: Hazardous materials.
Pre-planning is a key part of determining safe distances for different scenarios involving utility or fuel supplies, providing responding fire and rescue service personnel with accurate and relevant information. Depending on the nature of the utility or fuel incident, specialist advice from utility suppliers and ongoing liaison with on-site specialists, where available, will be required to ensure cordons are suitable and adequate.
In the petrochemical industry, cordon distances can be assessed by calculating the heat flux for different petrochemical products and storage facilities. These calculations are normally undertaken by consultants and experts in the field as part of pre-planning risk assessments and to identify suitable rendezvous points (RVPs), holding points, etc.
Strategic actions
Fire and rescue services should:
- Ensure that Site-Specific Risk Information (SSRI) identifies locations at utility and fuel sites that are likely to provide suitable cover from on-site hazards; this may be a combination of distance and/or substantial cover
Tactical actions
Incident commanders should:
- Implement cordon control to maintain the appropriate cordons or safe approach distances for the utilities or fuel present
- Identify suitable cover from hazards at utility and fuel sites
TRAINING SPECIFICATION
Knowledge and understanding
| Control measure element | Learning outcome |
|---|---|
Apply cordons and control for utilities and fuel |
Understand:
Refer to – Establish appropriate cordon controls – Incident command training specification |
Practical application
| Control measure element | Learning outcome |
|---|---|
Apply cordons and control for utilities and fuel |
Demonstrate the ability to:
Refer to – Establish appropriate cordon controls – Incident command training specification |
- Control measureSeek specialist advice or assistance for dealing with utilities or fuel
- Control measureIsolate utility or fuel supply to the premises