Barcelona's Torre Mapfre recently conducted a large-scale fire drill, evacuating nearly 1,400 workers from the 40-storey building. The exercise simulated an electric vehicle fire in the basement, testing emergency response protocols and inter-agency coordination.
The drill, organised by Catalan Civil Protection and Mapfre, aimed to evaluate the building's Self-Protection Plan (PAU). This plan outlines specific procedures for emergency situations. It also assessed the coordination among various emergency bodies and checked communication protocols. The scenario involved a charging electric vehicle catching fire on the building's first basement level, known as plant -1.
Emergency teams also practised evacuating a person with reduced mobility from the 17th floor. This specific element tested protocols for assisting and evacuating individuals in emergency situations, ensuring accessibility is considered. The drill began with a call to the 112 emergency number, subsequently activating full emergency procedures for the entire building.
Emergency Services Coordination
Multiple agencies participated in the operation, including the Barcelona Fire Service, Catalan Fire Service, Barcelona Urban Guard, Catalan Police, and Catalan Civil Protection. The Barcelona Fire Service deployed a full intervention group. This included two fire engines, a ladder truck, an ambulance, and a command vehicle, demonstrating a significant response.
Their functions focused on overall emergency coordination, accessing and securing the affected zone, extinguishing the simulated fire, and rescuing affected individuals. They moved people to safe zones for medical attention and assessment. The Catalan Fire Service supported their Barcelona counterparts with one crew and a Control Operator Specialist Technician from the Metropolitan North Emergency Region Control Room. This collaboration aimed to improve communication and understanding between command centres.
Urban Guard and Police Roles
The Barcelona Urban Guard assigned officers from the Sant Martí Territorial Unit and UREP. They provided critical operational support, especially in regulating traffic and mobility to guarantee clear access for emergency teams. The Urban Guard also maintained perimeter security around the building.
Additionally, they collaborated in managing the building's evacuation and assisting the public. The Catalan Police mobilised to perform public order actions alongside the Urban Guard, ensuring safety and crowd control. Catalan Civil Protection deployed two technicians who acted as observers during the exercise, monitoring the overall execution.
High-Rise Safety in Barcelona
Torre Mapfre, located at Carrer Marina 16 in the Sant Martí district, is one of Catalonia's tallest buildings. It stands 40 storeys high, housing numerous businesses and workers. Regular drills like this are critical for maintaining high safety standards in Barcelona's commercial high-rises. They help protect the thousands of people who work in these structures daily.
These exercises improve the readiness of emergency services and building management. They ensure a smooth and effective response to potential future incidents, from initial alert to full evacuation and rescue. Such drills are vital for the safety of Barcelona's residents and workers, particularly in densely populated urban areas.
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Originally published by Barcelona City Council Press Room. Read original article.
