Critical contact number
Control Measure Knowledge
The PECS code of practice requires the provision of a critical contact number in addition to the primary, secondary and alternative routings that are used for the connection of emergency callers. The critical contact number will only be used for call handling agent operator centre managers to contact fire controls in the event of spate conditions, equipment failure or other problem so that corrective action can be agreed.
It is important that fire control personnel are aware of the arrangement in place and how it may be used by the call handling agent.
Methods of receiving calls on the critical contact number in the event of a system failure, or when operating in contingency conditions, should be considered. It may be appropriate for a mobile phone to be provided solely for use as the critical contact method between the call handling agent and fire control.
When using a mobile phone as the method for critical contact, consideration should be given to:
- The methods of recording information shared and any decisions and actions agreed; these conversations with the call handling agent will not be recorded
- The device is easy to identify
- The location of the device