When Trouble Comes, Who Knows What To Do?
*Why HSE must become a culture in Nigerian facilities By Kenny Akintola There is one question Nigerians are very good at asking after an accident: “Who is responsible?” But perhaps
The recent violent incident at Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX in Lekki leaves facility managers, property owners, school administrators, security companies and business owners reflecting on preparedness. The attacker, armed with a machete and knife, made two victims - a security officer and another security personnel was also injured. This tragic event serves as a wake-up call for those responsible for facility management, health and safety, security and building operations to ask themselves if their people know what to do in such a situation.
It is crucial to move beyond simply asking "who is responsible" and focus instead on "what we did to prevent it" and "were we prepared for it?" The incident highlights the importance of preventive action in HSE (Health, Safety and Environment). It should not be limited to merely having policies, risk assessments, emergency procedures, first-aid boxes, fire extinguishers and training scheduled.
Rather, it should be ingrained as a culture within the organization. Good HSE means preventing incidents before they happen by ensuring security personnel are trained, emergency exits are clearly marked, escape routes are unobstructed, emergency lights and fire alarms are functional, CCTV cameras are operational, staff know how to raise an emergency alarm, at least some people on every shift know first aid, management knows the nearest emergency medical facility, and multiple individuals are prepared to handle various emergency situations.
The training should not be limited to certifying staff for an inspection but should be practical, continuous and reinforced through drills and understanding of individual responsibilities.
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