1. Purpose
This outlines the responsibilities of all CIC premise users—including Executive Committee (EC) members, volunteers, worshippers, hall hirers, contractors, and visitors—in ensuring electrical safety, physical security, hazard reporting, and emergency response across the Canberra Islamic Centre (CIC) and Sabah Al Ahmad Masjid facilities.
It complements the CIC Basic Security Policy & Procedures and supports CIC’s commitment to maintaining a safe, compliant, and welcoming environment.
2. Scope
These responsibilities apply to all users of:
- CIC Multipurpose Hall and ANIL Library
- Sabah Al Ahmad Masjid (including classrooms, offices, women’s prayer hall, burial facility)
- Courtyard, gardens, and children’s play gym
- Kitchen and dining facilities
- Carpark and external grounds
- All electrical, mechanical, and safety systems
3. Electrical Safety Responsibilities
All CIC premise users must ensure electrical devices are used safely and turned off when not required.
3.1 Devices to Turn Off After Use
- Air conditioners (AC)
- Lights (hall, masjid, classrooms, toilets, offices)
- Kitchen appliances (stove, oven, microwave)
- Hot water urns and kettles
- Audio systems and projectors
- Fans and heaters
3.2 Safe Use Requirements
- Do not overload power outlets.
- Report any sparking, overheating, or unusual odour immediately.
- Ensure cables are not stretched across walkways.
- Do not operate damaged appliances.
3.3 EC Member Responsibilities
- Conduct end-of-day checks for all electrical devices.
- Ensure kitchen appliances are fully powered down after events.
- Maintain a register of electrical faults and repairs.
4. Physical Security Responsibilities
4.1 Exit Doors & Gates
All users must:
- Ensure exit doors are not obstructed.
- Keep emergency exits unlocked during events.
- Close and secure doors after use.
- Notify EC members if any door or lock is damaged.
4.2 Main Gate & Perimeter
- EC members must ensure the automated gate is functioning.
- Visitors must not attempt to force open gates.
- Any suspicious activity near the perimeter must be reported.
4.3 Sensitive Areas
- Storage rooms, offices, and equipment rooms must remain locked.
- Only authorised persons may access restricted areas.
5. Responding to Visitors in Sensitive Situations
CIC users may encounter visitors experiencing distress, conflict, or health emergencies.
5.1 When to Call Authorities
Call Police (000) or Ambulance (000) if:
- A person is violent, threatening, or aggressive.
- A person is experiencing a medical emergency.
- There is a serious mental health concern.
- A crime or suspicious behaviour is occurring.
5.2 De-escalation Principles
- Remain calm and respectful.
- Do not physically intervene unless someone is in immediate danger.
- Alert EC members immediately.
- Move children and vulnerable people away from the situation.
5.3 EC Member Responsibilities
- Take charge of emergency communication.
- Ensure volunteers assist in crowd management.
- Record the incident for follow-up.
6. Security Environment Awareness & Risk Management
All users share responsibility for identifying and reducing unacceptable risks.
6.1 Identifying Risks
Examples include:
- Suspicious behaviour or unknown persons loitering
- Unattended bags
- Vehicles parked in unusual locations
- Overcrowding or unsafe crowd movement
- Electrical faults or burning smells
- Water leaks or structural damage
6.2 Minimising Residual Risk
Users must:
- Report hazards immediately.
- Follow EC instructions during incidents.
- Keep walkways clear.
- Ensure children are supervised.
- Avoid creating new risks (e.g., leaving chairs blocking exits).
6.3 EC Responsibilities
- Conduct regular risk assessments.
- Implement corrective actions.
- Maintain communication with ACT authorities when required.
7. Hazard Reporting Procedure
Hazards may cause harm to people, buildings, or the environment. All users must report hazards promptly.
7.1 Examples of Hazards
- Broken chairs, desks, or doors
- Loose cabling or exposed wires
- Damaged floor tiles or torn carpet
- Water leaking from air conditioning units
- Strong odours or smoke
- Slippery surfaces
7.2 How to Report
Visitors and EC members must:
- Notify an EC member immediately in person; and/or
- Send an email to info@canberraislamiccentre.org.au with details.
7.3 EC Follow-Up
- Assess the hazard within 24–48 hours.
- Engage contractors if required.
- Record the hazard and corrective action.
8. Incident Reporting by Visitors
Visitors must report incidents such as:
- Injury or medical emergencies
- Aggressive behaviour
- Vandalism or property damage
- Fire or smoke
- Child safety concerns
Reports can be made:
- Directly to EC members
- Via email: info@canberraislamiccentre.org.au
EC members will:
- Record the incident
- Determine follow-up action
- Contact authorities if required
9. Child Safety Responsibilities
CIC is committed to implementing the ACT Child Safe Standards.
9.1 Responsibilities of All Users
- Supervise children at all times.
- Report any child safety concern immediately.
- Ensure no unauthorised person removes a child from the premises.
- Respect cultural safety and inclusion.
9.2 EC Responsibilities
- Implement the 10 Child Safe Standards.
- Promote zero tolerance for child abuse.
- Ensure volunteers and staff understand their obligations.
10. Communication & Awareness
- Safety messages will be shared via announcements, signage, and email.
- Volunteers will be briefed before major events.
- Emergency contact numbers will be displayed in key areas.
11. Review
This document will be reviewed annually or after any significant incident.
See above contents in PDF File: CIC Facility Safety and Risk Management Responsibilities
Also see: Safety, Security & Emergency Preparedness
and our Child Safe Standards Scheme.