Fire & Safety Officer Olympia

Olympia Events is more than an exhibition venue, conference centre and live‑event space – it’s an inspiration. Against a backdrop of grand Victorian architecture, the seven connected spaces inspire engagement and enjoyment. Olympia Events is recognised in the industry for exceptional levels of customer service and support, and our numerous awards are testament to our clients' satisfaction. Beyond the walls of our venue, Olympia is on the ground, working to invest in people, strengthen our communities, and protect the environment. Olympia Events is undergoing a period of change. In 2017, the venue was bought by a consortium led by Yoo Capital and Deutsche Finance international. Work is currently underway to transform the wider estate into a cultural hub of which Olympia Events will be the central part. Once complete, the estate will include a new theatre, music venue, two hotels, over 30 eateries, world‑class office space and over two acres of public realm.

Job Purpose

To provide advice and guidance on all Fire and Safety policies, processes and procedures. Provide advice on all safety aspects relating to event floor plans, to the Venue Management Department. Carry out fire and safety inspections as required and complete preliminary investigations of all accidents and incidents within the venue. Provide first aid, at the appropriate level set by the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• To convey and display the Company core values of Confident, Attentive, Imaginative and Vibrant.
• Support the venue management and other departments within the Olympia venue, in all matters of fire safety and workplace safety, and provide regulatory advice as and when required.
• Comply with the current department service level agreement (SLA).
• Monitor, so far as is reasonably practicable, that safe working practices are being followed at all times, liaise with the event organiser’s safety team, reporting any safety breaches that are observed.
• Carry out safety briefs to all event organisers and their security teams as and when required.
• Ensure that appropriate safety signage is in place for the open period of any event.
• Support the Group Health and Safety Manager and Senior Fire & Safety Officer by undertaking workplace inspections, to ensure contractor compliance in accordance with the Olympia Events rules and regulations.
• Monitor health and safety compliance during build up, open and break down phases of all events.
• Inform the event organisers if any safety breaches are observed.
• Ensure a daily event safety check sheet is completed.
• Ensure that the appropriate levels of fire extinguishers are in place for each event.
• Always maintain a communication link to the Olympia control room and duty manager.
• Carry out a daily brief and supervise the duties of all Fire/First Aid auxiliaries when required, as per the requirements of the event.
• Liaise with the appropriate enforcement/licensing authorities as appropriate on issues relating to event fire and safety for all events, as and when required.
• Conduct fire risk assessments/inspections and any other associated risk assessments as required.
• Carry out all scheduled testing, inspecting and servicing (where required) of the venue fire safety lifesaving systems and equipment in accordance with the current fire safety regulations.
• Monitor the test programme for sprinklers, fire alarms, automatic fire detection (AFD), public address systems and emergency lighting.
• Complete preliminary accident and incident investigations as required.
• Manage the issuing of all hot work permits within the venue and monitor all hazardous work activities.
• Take the lead and ensure the required level of first aid/medical cover is in place, as per the risk assessment for the venue and for events.
• Carry out all fire briefs and induction training of new employees and contractors working within Olympia as and when required.
• Carry out annual fire safety training (theory and practical) for all Olympia employees and Olympia service partners.
• Assist in carrying out any other health and safety duties as required by the Group Health and Safety Manager and Senior Fire & Safety Officer.
• Respond as part of the venue IRT team for all emergency situations as per the Olympia emergency procedures.

Person specification

• Self‑motivated with the ability to positively influence and motivate others.
• Good communication skills, both oral and written.
• Good team player, with a practical approach to problem solving and creating solutions.
• Is driven and continually strives to improve (Personal Development Plan).
• Good IT skills, specifically on Microsoft Office (Word and Excel).
• Possess appropriate qualification relating to the role of Fire & Safety Officer, in all areas of H&S, Fire Safety and First Aid (NEBOSH General H&S, NEBOSH Fire, IOSH, NVQ, FAAW/FREC 3).
• Previous experience in the exhibition/leisure industry is advantageous.
• Good Knowledge of the events industry eGuide is advantageous.

Sustainability Responsibilities

• Continuously improve your knowledge of Olympia Events’ sustainability programme – the ‘Grand Plan’.
• Complete all training provided and promote sustainability practices to meet our Grand Plan objectives.
• Follow and promote all sustainable workplace policies and procedures and seek ways to make your department more sustainable by taking an active role to initiate change.

Olympia Events is fully committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children, young people and adults at risk (vulnerable groups) that attend our premises. As a consequence, Olympia Events may require any successful applicant to complete a DBS Check prior to working in our business. Olympia Events is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and expects all its people to have a positive commitment to EDI by treating others fairly and not committing any form of discrimination, victimisation or harassment and to promote positive working relationships amongst employees and stakeholders. This Job Description is not intended to be exhaustive; the duties and responsibilities may therefore vary over according to the changing needs of the business.