RMAFC Strengthens Workplace Safety with Fire Training for Staff
Oru Leonard
The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has strengthened its workplace safety measures with a fire safety training programme designed to equip staff with the knowledge and skills required to prevent and respond effectively to fire emergencies.
The training was held at the M.B. Shehu Auditorium, RMAFC Headquarters, Abuja, as part of efforts by the Commission to promote a safety-conscious workforce and protect lives and property.
Declaring the training open, the Chairman of RMAFC, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, represented by the Secretary to the Commission, Comrade Tosin Johnson Adeyanjo, called on staff to heighten their awareness and preparedness towards fire prevention and emergency response.
Shehu stressed that fire incidents could occur unexpectedly and have devastating consequences if not properly managed.
He urged staff to take the lessons from the training seriously and apply them both at the workplace and in their homes.
“Fire safety is a shared responsibility and everyone has a role to play in preventing fire outbreaks and responding appropriately when they occur,” he said.
The RMAFC Chairman also reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining a safe working environment, urging personnel to exercise caution in the use of electrical appliances, the handling of combustible materials and compliance with established emergency procedures.
The Director, Technical Services Department, Mr. Osanyamen Olaye, who organised the training, said the initiative was aimed at equipping staff with practical knowledge of fire prevention and emergency response.
Olaye noted that many fire disasters could be prevented when people are adequately informed, prepared and conscious of their environment.
He said the Commission remained committed to ensuring that its personnel were properly equipped to prevent and respond to fire emergencies.
According to him, the training was designed not only to create awareness but also to build a safety-conscious workforce capable of taking appropriate action during emergencies.
He encouraged participants to pay close attention to the training and share the knowledge acquired with colleagues in their respective departments.
Officials of the Federal Fire Service, who conducted the training, educated participants on the causes and classification of fire outbreaks, preventive measures, safe evacuation procedures and the appropriate use of fire extinguishers.
The training also introduced participants to the fire triangle—heat, fuel and oxygen—and explained how removing any one of the three elements can help to extinguish a fire.
The trainers emphasised the importance of good housekeeping, responsible use of electrical appliances, proper storage of flammable materials and regular maintenance of fire safety equipment.
Staff were also cautioned against attempting to fight fires that had progressed beyond the incipient stage, with emphasis placed on immediate evacuation and contacting the Fire Service whenever necessary.
The programme featured practical demonstrations on different types of fire extinguishers and their appropriate applications, as well as guidance on emergency exits, fire safety equipment and general workplace preparedness.
Some participants commended RMAFC for organising the training, pledging to apply the knowledge gained and promote fire safety awareness among their colleagues.
The event was witnessed by the Deputy Director, Technical Services Department, Mr. Okon Ante, and Deputy Director, Administration, Mr. Ebenezer Jaiye Igbekele, among other officials of the Commission.
