Last updated : 2001/1/10

St. John Ambulance Brigade

General Regulations

FOREWORD

The St. John Ambulance Brigade in Hong Kong started the restructuring process in March 1993 with the object of bringing about long-term improvement to the efficiency and management of the Brigade; providing better service to the Community; and adopting a new set of Brigade Regulations applicable to local circumstances in view of the sovereignty change in 1997.

The new Command Structure and the local General Regulations of the St. John Ambulance Brigade (to replace the General Regulations overseas edition published in U.K. by the Order of St. John), prepared by the Planning Group, Headquarters Command, were adopted by the Commissioner's Conference on 26 June, 1996 and subsequently endorsed by the Council on 23 July 1996 for full implementation.

A revised version of the local General Regulations, prepared by the General Regulations Review Committee, was adopted by the Commissioner's Conference on 4 March 1998 for publication.

Regulations are subject to amendment from time to time, if necessary.  However, no amendment or abrogation of the Regulations shall be valid unless approved by resolution of the Commissioner's Conference.

It is the duty of each members of the Brigade to become acquainted with the Regulations and every Unit Head must ensure that those under him/her read, understand and observe the Regulations in force.

Leonard K.P. Chiu
Commissioner
St. John Ambulance Brigade
March, 1998

General Regulations

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Organisation Chart of St. John Ambulance Brigade, Hong Kong
Chart for Surgeon and Nursing Officer Deployment in Operational Commands

Chapter 1    Organisation of the Brigade
1.1    Supreme Command
1.2    Brigade Structure
1.3    Command Structure
1.4    Headquarters Command
1.5    Medical Command
1.6    Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories Command
1.7    Senior Ambulance Officer
1.8    Ambulance Officer
1.9    Non-Commissioned Officer
1.10    Ambulance Member and Nursing Member
1.11    President Rank
1.12    Class of Officers and Abbreviation
1.13    Deployment of Corps and Divisions
    1.13.1    Hong Kong Island Command
    1.13.2    Kowloon Command
    1.13.3    New Territories Command

Appendix 1 Chinese Translation

Chapter 2    Brigade Administration
2.1    Command
2.2    Region
2.3    Corps
2.4    Division
2.5    Annual Appraisal Report
2.6    Office Administration
2.7    Duties and Responsibilities
2.8    Grievance and Complaint
2.9    Transfer

Chapter 3    Management
3.1    Premises and General Management
3.2    Appointment and Discharge
3.3    Promotion
3.4    Acting Appointment
3.5    Retirement, Resignation and Rejoining
3.6    Competitions
3.7    Examination
3.8    Efficiency Requirements

Chapter 4    Planning
4.1    Finance
4.2    Planning and Development
4.3    Training and Recruitment
4.4    Public Relations

Chapter 5    General
5.1    Stores
5.2    Welfare
5.3    Ambulance, Transportation & Communication
5.4    Salaried Staff
5.5    Operations

Chapter 6    Surgeon
6.1    General

Chapter 7    Dental
7.1    Structure
7.2    Dental Team

Chapter 8    Nursing
8.1    General
8.2    Duties
8.3    Structures
8.4    Entry Qualifications for Nursing Officer
8.5    Entry Rank
8.6    Deployment

Chapter 9    Uniform
9.1    Wearing of Uniform
9.2    Wearing of St. John Blazer
9.3    Wearing of Mess Kit
9.4    Personal Appearance
9.5    Acting Rank
9.6    Lanyard
9.7    Backing of Rank Markings
9.8    Medals and Ribbons
9.9    Presentation of Insignia Ceremonies by Chief Executive of HKSAR
9.10    Dress: Presentation of Long Service Medals and Clasps
9.11    Order of Dress
9.12    Rank Markings

Chapter 10    Conduct & Discipline
10.1    Conduct - General
10.2    Discipline - General
10.3    Composition of Hearing
10.4    Hearing Procedure
10.5    Punishment
10.6    Right of Appeal

Chapter 11    Honours, Awards & Commendations
11.1    Type of Awards & Commendations
11.2    Criteria for the Awards & Commendations
11.3    Honours and Awards Committee
11.4    Command Official Function

Chapter 12    Emergency
12.1    General Conveyance and Treatment of Emergency Patients
12.2    Definition of Emergency Calls
12.3    Removal or Delivery of Patients
12.4    Carriage of Stretcher Cases
12.5    Admission or Collection of Patients to or from Hospitals
12.6    The Treatment of Violent Injury or Accident Casualties
12.7    The Treatment of Heart Attack Victims
12.8    Conveyance of Snake Bite Victims
12.9    Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome(AIDS)
12.10    Handling of Bleeding Cases
12.11    Ambulance Passengers other than Patients
12.12    Conduct of Ambulance Crew
12.13    Responsibilities in connection with Dead Bodies
12.14    Speed Restriction for Ambulances
12.15    Major Incident and Disaster Field Operation

Chapter 13    Inspection
13.1    General
13.2    Command / Regional / Corps / Divisional Inspection
13.3    Annual Inspection

Chapter 14    Flags
14.1    The St. John Flag
14.2    Raising and Lowering of Flags

Chapter 15    Saluting
15.1    General
15.2    Saluting Civil Officials
15.3    General Exemptions for Saluting
15.4    General Salutes
15.5    Saluting at Incidents
15.6    Method of Saluting

Chapter 16    Personal Responsibilities
16.1    Personal Particulars
16.2    Brigade Identity Card

Chapter 17    Injury, Death of a Member and Funerals
17.1    Injuries whilst on duty
17.2    St. John Representation
17.3    Death of a Serving Member
17.4    St. John Funerals
17.5    Local Custom Rites
17.6    Representation at Funerals of Members of Other Disciplined Services / Departments / Organisations

Chapter 1: Organisation of the Brigade

St. John Ambulance Brigade provides free ambulance service, first-aid assistance, primary health care education and youth activities to members of the public.

1.1    Supreme Command

The supreme command rests on Commissioner and deputized by Deputy Commissioner.

The Command hierarchy consists of 4 levels:

• Command level
• Regional level
• Corps level
• Divisional level

1.2    The Brigade Structure

The Brigade consists of 5 Commands:

• Headquarters Command (HQ Command)
• Medical Command (Med Command)
• Hong Kong Island Command (H Command)
• Kowloon Command (K Command)
• New Territories Command (NT Command)

Senior Assistant Commissioner (Administration) is responsible for the overall administration of the Brigade.

Senior Assistant Commissioner (Operations) is responsible for the overall control and management of H, K and NT Commands.

Each Command, HQ, Med, H, K, NT is headed by an Assistant Commissioner.

1.3    The Command Structure

5 Commands are further be divided into:

HQ Command

• Logistic Group
• Planning Group
• General Group

Med Command

• Surgeon Group
• Dental Group
• Nursing Officer Group

H, K, NT Command

• H, K, NT Administrative Region
• Ambulance Region
• Nursing Region
• Cadet Region

Each Group at HQ, Med Command or Administrative Region at Operational Commands is headed by a Chief Superintendent.

1.4    Headquarters Command

a)    HQ Command established by

Logistic Group - responsible for

Ambulance, Transportation & Communication
Competition & Examination
Training & Recruitment

Planning Group - responsible for

Finance
General Management
Planning, Development & Welfare
Public Relations

General Group - responsible for

Appointment
Operations
Brigade Band
Stores

b)    Head of Group is Chief Superintendent and deputized by a Senior Superintendent.

Logistic Group (LG)
Planning Group (PG)
General Group (GG)

Section Heads in LG, PG, GG are Superintendent.
Officers and Rank & File under each Group should be kept to a minimal as Chief Superintendent thinks fit.

Under the supervision of C.E.O., Brigade Services Officer is responsible for providing administrative support to all Commands.

1.5 Medical Command

a) Formed by professionals of specialized field, they are responsible for

• appointment
• advice on promotion
• public services
• consultation on medical, dental or nursing field
• health care promotion
• render advice on first-aid technique and ambulance equipment and carry out policies laid down by Medical Committee
• administrative matters of Medical Command

b)    Medical Command consist of

• Surgeon Group
• Dental Group
• Nursing Officer Group

Each Group is headed by a Chief Superintendent with Senior Superintendent deputized. Officers and Rank & File should be kept to a minimum as Chief Superintendent thinks fit.
They are responsible for overall administration of their respective ranks.

c)    Surgeon and Nursing Officer in Command / Regional / Corps / Divisional level should under the supervision and direction of their respective Unit Heads in operational commitment.

1.6    Hong Kong Island, Kowloon. New Territories Command

3 Operational Commands consist of 4 Regions each:

• Administrative Region
• Ambulance Region
• Nursing Region
• Cadet Region

a)    H, K and NT Administrative Regions consists of:

1. Ambulance, Transportation and Communication Section
2. Appointment & Records Section
3. Competitions & Examination Section
4. Finance Section
5. General Management Section
6. Operations Section
7. Stores Section
8. Training & Recruitment Section

b)    Administrative Region is headed by a Chief Superintendent with Senior Superintendent deputized.

Each Section is headed by a Superintendent, assisting Officers may vary in ranks and must depend on actual needs, keeping to a minimal number of Officers and Rank & File should be observed.

All matters arising from Operational Commands which need the attention of Commissioner should keep HQ Command promptly reported.

c) The rest are

• Ambulance Region
• Nursing Region
• Cadet Region

Each Region in H, K and NT Commands is headed by Chief Superintendent and supported by a number of Corps:

Hone Kong Island Command

• No.1 Ambulance Corps
• No.2 Ambulance Corps
• No.3 Ambulance Corps
• No.4 Ambulance Corps
• No.5 Ambulance Corps
  
• No.1 Nursing Corps
• No.2 Nursing Corps
  
• No.1 Cadet Corps
• No.2 Cadet Corps

Kowloon Command

• No.1 Ambulance Corps
• No.2 Ambulance Corps
• No.3 Ambulance Corps
  
• No. 1 Nursing Corps
  
• No.1 Cadet Corps
• No.2 Cadet Corps
• No.3 Cadet Corps

New Territories Command

• No.4 Ambulance Corps
• No.5 Ambulance Corps
  
• No.2 Nursing Corps
  
• No.4 Cadet Corps
• No.5 Cadet Corps
• No. 6 Cadet Corps

Each Corps is headed by a Senior Superintendent and deputized by a Superintendent with Assistant Superintendent as Divisional Head.

Formation of a Corps should read in conjunction with Chapter 2.3.

d)    Under each Corps, the establishment of a Division entitles an Assistant Superintendent to be Divisional Head, the number of Senior Ambulance Officer/Ambulance Officer depends on actual strength of rank and file.

It is ruled that a minimum of 12 Rank & File entitles 1 Senior Ambulance Officer or Ambulance Officer.

e)    The ratio of Sergeant, Corporal and Member of each Division should be 2 : 4 : 12 except HQ, Med Command and Administrative Regions of Operational Commands which depends on actual needs.

1.7    Senior Ambulance Officer

a)    This is an advanced rank for Ambulance Officer who has acquired valid

• St. John First-aid Certificate    and
• St. John Nursing Certificate

he/she should be an active member in the service for

• at least 2 years
• with satisfactory performance    and
• is recommended by his/her Unit Head

b)    Except President rank in which promotion will solely base on:

• the degree of financial support plus 1 year efficient service
• his/her high devotion to brigade functions

1.8    Ambulance Officer

a)    Direct appointment, with exemption in St. John First-aid and Nursing Certificates, may be offered to the following professions in Officer rank who are holding valid special qualifications:

1. Registered Medical Practitioner and Dentist
   (entry at Assistant Superintendent rank)
2. Registered Nurse and Enrolled Nurse
   (entry at Probationary Ambulance Officer rank)
3. Substantive Ambulance Officer of H.K. Fire Services
   (entry at Probationary Ambulance Officer rank)
   (no exemption in First-aid & Nursing Certificates)
4. Qualified Squad Drill Instructor at Arm Force
   (entry at Probationary Ambulance Officer rank)
   (no exemption in First-aid & Nursing Certificates)
5. Teacher- in-charge for Cadet
   (entry at Probationary Ambulance Officer rank)
   (no exemption in First-aid & Nursing Certificates)

b)    All Officers should join at basic Officer rank and must follow subsequent ranks for promotion. Surgeon and Dental Officer will enter at Assistant Superintendent rank with the aforesaid promotion chain.

c)    All probationary Officers are subject to one year probation and can be extended to three years depending on performance. During his/her probation period, he/she should acquire a valid St. John Nursing Certificate except Registered Nurse.

d)   All officers are required to possess at least 2 years' efficiency in the existing rank, as a pre-requisite for consideration to promotion. (added on 2 February 2000 as per Administrative Circular)

1.9    Non-Commissioned Officer

a)    Non-Commissioned Officer and Members at basic rank (excluding cadet members) can be promoted to Officer rank. Those who do not meet the conditions stipulated in Chapter 1.8, should pass or possess:

• St. John Ambulance Brigade Officer Course
• Valid St. John First-aid Certificate
• At least 3 years efficient service
• Highly recommended by Senior Officers

b)    Advantage for promotion to Officer rank will be granted to Non-Commissioned
Officer who pass or hold:

• St. John Non-Commissioned Officer course
• Valid St. John Lecturer Certificate
• Valid St. John Nursing Certificate

1.10    Ambulance Member and Nursing Member

a)    Members of the public who reach the age of 17 with good conduct and suitable physique as well as the holders of an approved First-aid Certificate or evidence of a subsequent award gained within the previous 36 months are eligible to apply for Joining:

• Ambulance Member for male
• Nursing Member for female

Nursing personnel must be in possession of an approved St. John Nursing Certificate within the calendar year following the year of joining.

b)    Secondary school students may join Ambulance, Combined or Nursing Cadet Divisions of H, K or NT Cadet Region.

c)    No person who has within the previous 12 months resigned from the Red Cross Society should be accepted as a member of the Brigade without the agreement of the local Red Cross Headquarters (this regulation is reciprocal).

1.11    President Rank

a)    All Presidents are free of responsibility over Brigade administration. The entry rank markings will be 2 pips.

b)    President deployed to respective levels should not exceed the following establishment, however, special request may be sought from Commissioner in order to recruit more than 3 Vice-Presidents at Command/Region/Corps/Division:

Brigade President:

Only person with prestigious social status and has excellent contribution to St. John over a long period of time may be invited at Deputy Commissioner rank with the approval of the Commissioner.

Command Senior President:

This unique post may more than one and is attached to Senior Assistant Commissioner (Administration) and Senior Assistant Commissioner (Operations).
Members of the public with high social status may be appointed as Command Senior President at Senior Assistant Commissioner rank by the Commissioner.

c)    All members of President rank, except Brigade President, are on condition to a 2-year appointment, consecutive service is subject to renewal.

d)    Rank Markings and Annual Subscription:
Annual subscription may be revised subject to Commissioner's approval.

e)    In exceptional cases, if required, the President may be appointed as Advisor, in addition to his existing title, at the discretion of the Commissioner. (added on 1 March 2000 as per Administrative Circular)

(The annual donation for Presidents was revised on 1 April 2000 as per Administrative Circular)

*    This is an advanced rank for all Divisional Vice-Presidents who have at least one year efficient service and be able to donate HK$15,000/annum will be considered for advancement to Divisional Senior Vice-President subject to the approval of the Commissioner.

^    The plain bar for President rank when attached with a Crown (Regional Vice-President) and three pips (Corps Vice-President) will be 0.3 cm width and punched at the shoulder seam. Plain bar for Divisional Senior Vice-President will be 1.25 cm width.

e) In exceptional cases, if required, the President may be appointed as Honorary Advisor, in addition to his existing title, at the discretion of the Commissioner. (added in December 1998 as per Administrative Circular No 1)

1.12    Class of Officers and abbreviation

The under-listed classification of Officers and abbreviation has been approved for general use:

Senior Commander refers to

Senior Officer refers to

Subordinate Officer refers to

Non-Commissioned Officer refers to

Rank & File refers to

1.13    Deployment of Corps and Divisions

1.13.1 Hong Kong Island Command

Ambulance Region

Nursing Region

Cadet Region

1.13.2    Kowloon Command

Ambulance Region

Transport Ambulance Division is under "Ambulance, Transportation & Communication Section" of Administrative Region.

Nursing Region

Cadet Region(The Cadet Region, Kowloon & New Territories Command restructured on 1 July 2000 as per Administrative Circular)

1.13.3    New Territories Command

Ambulance Region

Transport Ambulance Division is under "Ambulance, Transportation & Communication Section" of Administrative Region.

Nursing Region

Cadet Region(The Cadet Region, Kowloon & New Territories Command restructured on 1 July 2000 as per Administrative Circular)

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Appendix 1    Chinese Translation

[back to General Regulations Table of Contents 回到目錄]

Chapter 2:    Brigade Administration

Brigade Administration operates under the authority and direction of the Commissioner's Conference which is held bi-monthly with members at Assistant Commissioner rank and above. Commissioner will bona fide be the Chairman, Deputy Commissioner as Vice-Chairman, C. E. 0. as ex-officio member and the Executive Secretary as the Secretary. At any meeting of the Commissioner's Conference, five members present shall constitute a quorum.

All external communications and correspondences in relation to the Brigade should be signed by the Commissioner, or in his absence or being authorised, the Deputy Commissioner.

Internal Brigade affairs will be signed by Commissioner, or in his absence or being authorised, the Deputy Commissioner, Senior Assistant Commissioner or Assistant Commissioner.

2.1    Command

1. All external communications and correspondences in relation to Command affairs should be signed by Assistant Commissioner, or Chief Superintendent in his/her absence or being authorised.
2. Internal correspondences for Command affairs will be signed by Chief Superintendent.
3. Senior Superintendent can sign on behalf of Chief Superintendent in his/her absence.

2.2    Region

1. Internal correspondences for Regional affairs will be signed by Chief Superintendent.
2. Senior Superintendent can sign on behalf of Chief Superintendent.

2.3    Corps

1. Senior Superintendent can sign internal correspondences in relation to his/her Corps.
2. Superintendent can sign on behalf of Senior Superintendent in his/her absence or being authorised.
3. The maximum number for an Ambulance or Nursing Corps is 6 Divisions.

Formation of Corps should be approved by the Commissioner through proper channel with the recommendation of respective Assistant Commissioners.

2.4    Division

1. Assistant Superintendent can sign internal correspondences in respect of his/her Division.
2. Senior Ambulance Officer or Ambulance Officer can sign internal correspondences on behalf of Assistant Superintendent in his/her absence or being authorised.
3. At least 30 members are required to form a Division. The Commissioner may order to disband a Division whose membership size is less than 10 or the Division with inefficient records.
4. Formation of Division should be approved by the Commissioner through proper channel with the recommendation of Assistant Commissioner.

2.5    Annual Appraisal Report

a)    All personnel, except Senior Commanders, will be appraised annually. Appraisal reports will be completed at year end in the following manner and forwarded to C.E.O. after endorsement by the Reviewing Officer.

b)    Any adverse or outstanding reports are required to be substantiated by facts and be brought to the attention of respective Assistant Commissioners for comments who may interview the appraisees if the Assistant Commissioner thinks appropriate.

c)    Officers and members of operational Commands should meet the following criteria in order to entitle an "Efficient Service":

1. attend 12 Divisional meetings
2. pass Annual Re-examination
3. attend Annual Inspection
4. fulfil 30 hours duty
5. satisfy his/her superior Officers in the performance of duties

2.6    Office Administration

a)    All documents in the C.E.O. or Commissioner's Office which require the attention of Command will be forwarded to respective Assistant Commissioner who will direct the Chief Superintendent (Admin) of that Command to take action or refer the matter to Chief Superintendent (Ambulance) /(Nursing) /(Cadet) if necessary.

In the latter case, Chief Superintendent (Admin) will be kept informed of the outcome in writing by Section/Unit concerned.

b)    Matters from Corps/Divisional level require the attention or settlement of respective Assistant Commissioners should be submitted through proper channel:

• Senior Superintendent /Superintendent and
• Chief Superintendent (Ambulance) /(Nursing) /(Cadet)

and reach Chief Superintendent (Admin) for recommendation before further submitted to Assistant Commissioner for decision and endorsement.

c)    All confidential, restricted or matters need specific attention to a particular Officer or member must address by attention and send directly to whom concerned.

2.7    Duties and Responsibilities

Hereunder are the broad terms of reference in connection to duties and responsibilities for all Officer ranks in the Brigade, specific areas of such had been contained in this General Regulations for further reference.

a)    Senior Assistant Commissioner:

1. Overall command on policy and decision making, to ensure the Brigade administration, medical and operational functions always in good order;
2. assist the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner in Brigade management.
   

b)    Assistant Commissioner:

1. Officer- in-charge of the Command to assist the Deputy Commissioner in the
   planning, directing, co-ordinating and controlling of work over the Command
   under his/her control and ensuring it is carried out efficiently and expeditiously
   according to prescribed duties and orders;
2. To advise and assist the Commissioner on formulating and reviewing brigade policies, programme plans, priorities and long term planning needs;
3. To oversee career planning for junior Officers;
4. To provide financial forecasts and budget planning;
5. To advise Commissioner via Deputy Commissioner on the required staff deployments and post changes;
6. To assist in decision on routine complaints other than corruption;
7. To perform any other duties as may be assigned by the Commissioner or the Deputy Commissioner from time to time.
   

c)    Chief Superintendent:

1. Officer- in-charge of the Group/Region;
2. Controlling and ensuring the work of all Sections /Corps under his/her command is being carried out efficiently and expeditiously according to prescribed duties and orders;
3. Any other duties as may be assigned by Senior Commanders at Commissioner rank from time to time.

d)    Senior Superintendent:

1. 2nd in command of Group/Region and to deputise the Chief Superintendent in his/her absence;
2. Head of Corps when deployed in the field of Operation;
3. Monitor the routine management of the Group/Region, initiating and maintaining methods to monitor and measure the standards of performance in the Section/Corps;
4. To optimize, dispositing and control all existing resources in the Command;
5. Any other duties as may be assigned by the Senior Commanders from time to time.

e)    Superintendent:

1. To deputise Senior Superintendent in his/her absence;
2. As Deputy Head of Corps when deployed in the field of operation;
3. To assist the Senior Superintendent in the overall management of the Section/Corps;
4. To co-ordinate all Corps under his/her command for specific assigned task;
5. Any other duties as may be assigned by Officers at Senior Superintendent rank and above from time to time.

f)    Assistant Superintendent:

1. As Head of a Division and monitor the effective use of all equipment and the efficiency of all members within his/her division;
2. To execute laid down policies and instructions, policies for the smooth and efficient running of his/her division;
3. To promptly execute any other instructions given to him/her by his/her Senior Officers;
4. To deal with all administrative and personnel matters within the division;
5. To organise proper training for all members under his/her command.

g)    Senior Ambulance Officer/Ambulance Officer:

1. To command the division in the absence of the Assistant Superintendent;
2. To ensure the instructions from Head of Division are being carried out in an efficient and effective manner;
3. To co-ordinate and control the supply and maintenance of all first-aid stores and equipment in the division;
4. Undertaking any other duties as assigned.

2.8    Grievance and Complain

1. All personnel of the Brigade can ask for direct interview with any Senior Commanders or Senior Officers in case of grievances. He/She must first notify his/her Unit Head in writing for such request under confidential cover, indicating the expected date, time and venue (St. John premises) for the interview. There is no need to reveal his/her grievance during this written process.
2. All complaints, except suspected corruption case, from members of the public should be dealt with by HO Command with the assistance of related Command, if required.
3. All suspected corruption case will be handled with by ICAC.

2.9    Transfer

a)    Any Officer or member who wishes to transfer between Command/Region/Corps/Division may apply to his/her Unit Head under the following reasons:

1. genuine needs due to personal or domestic problem
2. residential consideration

b)    All transfers should be of good intent and benefit for the service of St. John Ambulance Brigade.

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Chapter 3:    Management

3.1    Premises and General Management

1. Overall management of Brigade/Command premises will rest on General Management Section of HQ/H/K/NT Command.
2. General Management Section is responsible for routine Brigade/Command administration.

3.2    Appointment and Discharge

a)    The Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner and Brigade President will be appointed by the Council.

b)    The Senior Assistant Commissioners, Assistant Commissioners and Chief Superintendents will be appointed by the Commissioner.

c)    The appointment of Assistant Commissioner rank and above should be bound by the following criteria:

1. Complete devotion and dedication to Brigade;
2. Avoid duplication of character for conflict of interest at such a supreme level;
3. Not simultaneously holding significant or equivalent appointment at -
   

Auxiliary Medical Service
Civil Aid Service
Government Flying Service (Auxiliary Team)
Hong Kong Red Cross
Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force
St. John Ambulance Association unless prior approval has been sought from the Commissioner.

d)    The school base for Cadet should be full time Form 1 student.

e)    Appointment & Records Section of respective Commands should keep an updated records of all ranks within their command.

f)    Membership of the Brigade will automatically lapse in the case of officers and members who are returned as non-efficient for two consecutive years. In the case of officers, the Commissioner must be informed.
Officers and members who are non-efficient for periods exceeding two years due to sickness, travelling, examinations or urgent private affairs may be retained in the Brigade on written application to the Commissioner through the usual channels. (added on 30 December 1998 as per Administrative Circular No 1)

g)    A person convicted for an offence which would be regarded by any reasonable person as in any way disgraceful under G.R. 10.1 f) shall not be eligible for joining, re-joining, or retention in the Brigade. (added on 30 December 1998 as per Administrative Circular No 1)

3.3    Promotion

HQ Command will arrange the Promotion Board once a year in June for the promotion of all ranks up to and including Senior Superintendent.(amended on 1 January 2001 as per Administrative Circular)

a)    The composition of Promotion Board consists of

Chairman:
- Assistant Commissioner (HQ/Med/H/K/NT)
(appointed by Commissioner)
Secretary:
- Senior Superintendent
(appointed by Commissioner)
Members:
- 2 Senior Officers
(appointed by Commissioner)

b)    HQ Command will call for vacancy half-yearly in March and September.

c)    A Promotion Board will be convened within 30 days immediately after the application deadline.

d)    Selected candidate (except President and Rank & File, who will be assessed mainly by annual reports) will be invited to attend an interview.

e)    All Officers and candidates attend or appear before the Promotion Board should wear uniform.

f)    The selected candidates will be assessed according to the following scores at the interview:

g)    Name of successful candidates will be promulgated in Brigade Order subject to the approval of Commissioner.

h)    Vacancies during the interim period may be dealt with by acting appointments at the discretion of the Unit Head.

3.4    Acting Appointment

a)    Members holding acting appointments shall have the same authority as the substantive holder of the appointment.

b)    There are two categories of acting appointments:

• with a view to substantive appointment/ promotion and
• for administrative convenience

c)    Satisfactory performance whilst acting for administrative convenience will not by itself justify any priority for promotion.

d)    A member who is holding an acting appointment proceeds on leave exceeding 7 working days will be ceased his acting appointment automatically. Unit Head concerned will nominate another acting appointment.

3.5    Retirement, Resignation and Rejoining (retitled on 30 December 1998 as per Administrative Circular No 1)

a)    Any members may retire from the Brigade at his/her own will. Age for normal retirement is 65 (except President rank), extension on a yearly basis upto the age of 70 (amended on 19 May 1999 as per Administrative Circular No 4) may be considered subject to certified health condition and Commissioner's approval on the recommendation of Deputy Commissioner or respective Assistant Commissioners. However, members not less than 10 years efficient service may also apply for retirement at the age of 45.

b)

1. Any members retired from the Brigade may not rejoin. Officers(amended on 10 January 2001 as per Administrative Circular) may retain the uniform and dress in official occasion, divisional inspection and annual parade upon retirement. However, their rank markings will remain as the last office and be worn with a letter "R" in the seam of the shoulder strap to indicate retirement.   Prior approval for wearing uniform must be sought from Commissioner.
2. In exceptional cases, if required, the retired officer may be appointed as Honorary Advisor at the discretion of the Commissioner. (added on 30 December 1998 as per Administrative Circular No 1)

c)    Members may resign from the Brigade on personal grounds. He/She may apply for rejoin at any time subject to vacancy available, and the past years of efficiency service would still be taken into account towards his/her personal record. Final approval rest on the Commissioner.

d)    Cadet members may join any Divisions at Ambulance or Nursing Region on and after the date of his/her 16th birthday, however, the past years of efficiency service at Cadet Division can only be counted as:

2 full years efficiency service at Cadet counted as 1 year efficiency service below the age of 16. One full year efficiency service of Cadet is counted as 1 year efficiency service in Adult on his/her 16th birthday provided that he/she possesses a valid Adult First Aid Certificate or /and Adult Home Nursing Certificates.(amended on 24 March 1999 as per Administrative Circular No 3)

Cadets members are only required to pass a re-examination in Basic First Aid/Basic Home Nursing in order to fulfil the efficiency requirement in relation to annual re-examination, retrospective from 1 January 1997.(amended on 24 March 1999 as per Administrative Circular No 3)

e)    On retirement, he/she should return his/her Brigade Identity card to Commissioner for cancellation. (amended on 10 January 2001 as per Administrative Circular)

f)    A "Retired Officers' List" will be kept on Regional Basis.

3.6    Competition

a)    Chief Superintendent of Management Group, Headquarters Command may instruct the formation of "Competition & Examination Committee" with the following composition and duties:

i)    Composition:

• Doctors
• Nurses
• Officers not in the medical or nursing profession.

ii)    Duties:

1. To standardize rules and regulations for all competitions within the Brigade, subject to revisions from time to time.
2. To set policy on the format of competitions and to set/select question papers for such competitions. Distribute the question papers under confidential cover to Competition and Examination Section of Operational Command concerned for exercising.
3. To set policy to promote the standards of such competitions.
4. To manage the Casualty Simulation Unit.

The term "Competitions" applies to First Aid, Nursing Squad Drill, Uniform and Equipment Inspection, Competitions for Ambulance, Nursing and Cadet Regions within the Brigade.

Head of "Competition & Examination Committee" should be Superintendent rank or above as appointed by the Chief Superintendent of Management Group.

Headquarters Command.

b)    The setting up of a Casualty Simulation Unit is to ensure fairness and uniformity of standard for all Brigade Competitions, and to assist in all competitions held by operational Command when requested.

Head of Casualty Simulation Unit is Assistant Superintendent rank, deputised by Senior Ambulance Officer or Ambulance Officer within a team of members of Rank & File.

c)    Any complaint regarding the contents, questions and result of the Competitions should first be referred to the Competitions & Examinations Section of the respective Commands for settlement within 7 working days after the Competition.

Further appeal can be lodged to the "Competition & Examination Committee" of
Headquarters Command for final decision.

3.7    Examination

a)    All Offices and members should pass the annual re-examination before annual inspection in First-aid. Nursing personnel should also acquire Nursing Certificate or certificate in Dental Surgery Assistant Training Course for Nursing Members of the Dental Group in addition to First-aid, before being qualified to continue his/her service.(amended on 1 January 1999 as per Administrative Circular No 2)   However, the following Officers and members may be exempted from the annual re-examination:-

1. Chief Superintendent rank and above
2. President rank(amended on 1 January 1999 as per Administrative Circular No 2)
3. Registered Surgeon and Dental Officer
4. Registered Nurse
5. Enrolled Nurse

b)    Nursing members who have joined a Division on an approved First-aid Certificate not gained in the year of joining, must take a Re-examination in First-aid, unless they obtain the Nursing Certificate or certificate in Dental Surgery Assistant Training Course in the year of joining.

c)    Nursing members of the Dental Group may be exempted from the annual re-examination in Home Nursing if she attend the annual re-examination in Dental Surgery Assistant Training Course.(added on 1 January 1999 as per Administrative Circular No 2)

3.8    Efficiency Requirements

1. With the exception of the year in which the St. John First-Aid Certificate is revalidated, Officers and Members must each year attend the annual re-examination. Nursing personnel should also pass the re-examination in St. John Home Nursing Course or Dental Surgery Assistant Training Course (for Dental Group only) annually.
   Presidents will not be required to pass the First Aid examination/re-examination in counting their efficient service, but they are encouraged to take up CPR Courses voluntarily. (amended & effective on 1 January 1999 as per Administrative Circular No 2)
2. Attend Brigade Annual Inspection/Corp/Division Inspection.(amended on 13 October 1999 as per Administrative Circular No 6)
3. Attend at least 12 Divisional meetings.
4. Carry out Brigade obligations to the satisfaction of supervising Officers and the Commissioner.
5. Carry out 30 duty hours each year, devoted to St. John service but does not include the weekly training nights.
6. Year of joining not later than 30th September.

[back to General Regulations Table of Contents 回到目錄]

Chapter 4:    Planning

4.1    Finance

1. Respective Finance Section is responsible for the administration of President Fund Committee of their Commands.
2. Finance Section prepares all accounts in connection with Command belongs including financial forecast submission.
3. Superintendent of Finance Section is an authorised person (together with an Officer at Chief Superintendent rank) to sign official cheque.

4.2    Planning & Development

HQ Command is responsible for planning and development of Brigade services, including planning of new offices and ambulance depots, and make recommendation to Commissioner.

4.3    Training & Recruitment

1. Training & Recruitment Section is to centralise all Brigade courses, i.e. Management Course, Paramedic Course, Officers Course and NCO Course with a view to ensuring the standard of the courses are up to the required standard.
2. Training & Recruitment Section is to ensure all recruits, Officers and members should possess valid St. John First-aid Certificate in order to be eligible for enrollment in the Brigade, except President rank.
3. Training & Recruitment Section is to ensure Members promoted to Officer rank should possess valid St. John First-aid Certificate. He/She must acquire valid St. John Nursing Certificate within one year of their Officer probation period, otherwise the period of probation will be extended.

4.4    Public Relations

All external relations affairs will be handled by HQ Command including:

• Liaison with press and journalist
• Image promotion of the Brigade
• Liaison with officials in handling honourable guests during visit.

[back to General Regulations Table of Contents 回到目錄]

Chapter 5:    General

5.1    Stores

a)    Requisition of store items should be made to Stores Section of respective Commands under the control of HQ Command.

b)    Stores Section should be responsible for:

1. the annual estimation of stores consumption;
2. Procurement of store items and ensure sufficient stock at hand for normal requisition;
3. Standardise, issue and replacement of Brigade uniform.

c)    Stores Classification:

1. Consumable item - refer to expendable stores issued from Consumable Stores Register, which require no further accounting procedure after issue.
2. Non-consumable item (Inventory Item) - refer to items of high value and durability, which should be recorded in the Inventory Register of respective Stores Sections for audit purpose and regular checking.

d)    Store Forms are used in accordance with the instructions of Chief Superintendent (General Group) of HQ Command, who is responsible for reviewing Store Forms on a regular basis.

e)    Register of Audit Controlled Forms should be properly kept under the control of Head of Stores Section.

f)    Voucher movements are restricted, subject to the approval of Chief Superintendent (General Group) of HQ Command as appropriate.

g)    Vouchers are authorised by Unit Heads who are responsible for certifying the correctness of the contents of all vouchers initiated from their units before being forwarded to their respective Stores Sections for requisition at the end of each month.

h)    Any surplus, damaged and usable items should be returned to Chief Superintendent (General Group) of HQ Command.

i)    Exchange of stores items should follow the normal procedure through Store Form.

j)    Loss or damages of Brigade property:

1. it should be investigated by the respective Unit Head and a full report be submitted to Commissioner through normal channel.
2. Chief Superintendent (General Group) of HQ Command will further investigate and make recommendation to the Commissioner.
3. Full compensation would take place when it is concluded that the member concerned is negligent and responsible for the loss or damages.

k)    Write-off of any Inventory Items requires the permission of Chief Superintendent (General Group) of HQ Command.

1)    Repair of equipment or equipment certified beyond economical repair should be the responsibility of company or agent concerned. Stores Section may contact them direct, any findings should keep Chief Superintendent (General Group) of HQ Command informed and seek instructions for further action.

m)    Stores Section of Operational commands should approach Chief Superintendent (General Group) of HQ Command for regular stores delivery under mutual agreement.

n)    Stores Survey Board is responsible for the determination of stores write-off, stores audit, formulate stores management system and confirm Inventory Item which is certified beyond economical repair.

Stores Survey Board will meet base on genuine need and comprise of:

- Chairman
Chief Superintendent (General Group) of HQ Command
- Members
Superintendents of Stores Section of Operational Commands.

o) An Uniform & Equipment Record Form should be recorded by all members whose uniform and accoutrement are issued by the Brigade Stores and be kept by assigned store-keeper of the unit concerned.

5.2    Welfare

a)    Welfare Section is responsible for making suitable arrangement for Brigade Officers and members on occasion of:

1. hospitalisation;
2. wedding;
3. funeral.

b)    Organising welfare activities including:

1. conducting social and recreational functions;
2. seeking privilege or sponsorships.

5.3    Ambulance, Transportation & Communication

1. Ambulance, Transportation & Communication Section bears the responsibility for ensuring ambulances/vehicles are in good working condition.
2. Carry out interior fittings of the ambulance/vehicle.
3. Ambulance equipment assessment and order placing.
4. Make ambulances/vehicles fleet available round the clock with the assistance of salaried ambulance staff and volunteers of their Commands.
5. Recommending modification or ordering of modern communication equipment for the better performance of ambulance duties.

5.4    Salaried Staff

With the assistance of Ambulance, Transportation and Communication Section of Operational Commands, C.E.O. is responsible for the overall supervision of Salaried Ambulance member and workman, and countersign the respective annual staff appraisal reports.

5.5    Operations

1. Operations Section should ensure the carrying out all Brigade duties satisfactorily at all times.
2. Receive orders and deploy manpower to meet the operational needs. Liaison with party concerned for duty commitment.

[back to General Regulations Table of Contents 回到目錄]

Chapter 6:    Surgeon

6.1    General

1. Surgeon Group of Medical Command is responsible for the overall administration, appointment, and promotion in Surgeon rank. It also responsible for carrying out laid down policies of Medical Committee in relation to Brigade administration.
2. Promotion of Surgeon rank will be based on contribution and meritorious service rendered to the Brigade.
3. Surgeon deployed to Command/ Regional/Corps/Divisional level should not be higher than the rank of their respective Head. They are under the direct supervision of their respective Unit Heads.
4. Surgeons at Divisional level should be Assistant Superintendent rank, the basic entry rank for Surgeon.
5. Each Command/Region/Corps/Division entitles 1 Surgeon for professional input. Additional requirement is subject to Commissioner's approval.

[back to General Regulations Table of Contents 回到目錄]

Chapter 7:    Dental

Dental Group of Medical Command is responsible for overall administration, appointment and promotion of Dental Officer and members of the Group. Chief Superintendent of Dental Group recommends Dental Officers and members for promotion.

Dental Group provides free dental service for the under-privileged and handicapped patients in the community of Hong Kong.

All operational Officers of the Group are registered Dental Surgeons with supporting Officers for administration and members for supporting services.

The entry rank for Dental Officer is Assistant Superintendent. Promotion will be based on contributions and meritorious service rendered to the Brigade.

7.1    Structure

a)    The Dental Group is under the command of Chief Superintendent who is the executive Head of Group.

b)    Head of Group is deputised by a Senior Superintendent who must be familiar with all aspects of running the Group. He/She is responsible for

1. General Planning
2. Clinic and Office Establishment
3. Strategy Formulation
4. Direction of Dental Service
5. Manpower against Patient Resources
6. Improvement of Clinical Facilities
7. Public Relations in Dental aspects
8. Personnel matters
9. Project Proposal and Organisation of Projects
10. Internal Competition & Awards in Dental aspects

c)    The authority is further assisted by 6 Superintendents, they are:

i)    Superintendent(Administration) responsible for:

• General administration of the Group
• Provision of appraisal reports and records
• Recruitment and retention of Officers and members
• Communications with clients (Charitable organisations and Institutes)
• Oversee patients' appointment
• Supervise all clinical and outdoor duties
• Checking of efficiency
• Arranging recreation and welfare activities

ii)    Superintendent(Clinical Management) responsible for:

• Administration of funds
• Budget estimation and preparation of report
• Tendering procedures
• House-keeping of clinic and office including repair and maintenance
• Checking store record
• Provision of inventory report (he/she will be assisted by a qualified Dental Nurse)

iii)    Superintendent(Training) responsible for:

• Theoretical and practical teaching of Dental Surgery Assistant techniques

iv)    Superintendent(Outreaching) responsible for:

• The promotion and marketing of dental service to the members of the public especially charitable organisations and institutes for the handicapped and underprivileged people
• Organising and delivering oral health lectures to the public

v)    2 Superintendent(Supplementary) are established posts to be filled whenever necessary.

d)    8 Assistant Superintendent posts (Duty I/C), they are:

i)    Assistant Superintendent (First-aid Training) responsible for:

• Assisting Superintendent(Training) in routine duties
• Providing first-aid training for all members and new recruits of the Group
• Arrangement of annual re-examination
• Provision of first-aid knowledge required in Dental office

ii)    Assistant Superintendent(Purchasing) responsible for:

• Assisting Superintendent(Clinical Management) in routine duties
• Purchase of dental and office materials and equipment

iii)    Assistant Superintendent(Secretary) responsible for:

• Assisting Superintendent(Administration) in routine duties
• Performing secretarial functions
• Preparing and distributing notices

iv)    Assistant Superintendent(Oral Health) responsible for:

• Assisting Superintendent(Outreaching) in routine duties
• Providing oral health training to the public

v)    Assistant Superintendent(Art Work) responsible for:

• Assisting Superintendent(Administration) in routine duties
• Providing art work and printing design

vi)    3 Assistant Superintendent(Supplementary) are established posts to be filled whenever necessary.

7.2    Dental Team

The Dental team for each clinical duty should comprises of at least 5 persons:

a)    One Superintendent (Dental Officer) to perform mouth examination and dental surgery.

b)    One Assistant Superintendent as Duty-in-charge and is responsible for the:

• preparation of clinic and pre-surgical sterilisation for each duty
• organising patients' record
• filling up forms and keeping punctuality record for staff
• writing summary and report of all treatments
• final check of the clinic before closing
• reappointment of patients
• arranging replacement for absent surgeons or members
• updating stores record
• offering service counselling for patients
• transport arrangement and setting up counters for outdoor duties

c)    At least two Dental Surgery Assistants at Senior Ambulance Officer or Ambulance Officer rank to assist the Dental Officer (Assistant Superintendent) in:

• maintaining treatment record
• taking of medical history
• surgical procedures
• cleaning of instrument and the clinic
• medical waste disposal
• dealing with clients, waiting room condition and general counselling

d)    One Ambulance/Nursing member for the handling of wheel chairs and driving the dental van for the transportation of patients and the Mobile Dental Unit.

[back to General Regulations Table of Contents 回到目錄]

Chapter 8:    Nursing

8.1    General

Nursing Officer Group of Medical Command is responsible for the overall administration, appointment and promotion in Nursing rank.

8.2    Duties

The duties of Nursing Officers are to provide nursing (or alike subjects) training, to conduct annual re-examinations for Officers and members of the Brigade, and to promote primary health care to the community of Hong Kong.

8.3    Structures

1. The Nursing Officer Group is headed by a Chief Superintendent with Senior Superintendent deputised at Command level.
2. Nursing Officers of various ranks will be deployed at Regional/Corps/ Divisional levels to discharge their duties under the supervision and direction of their respective Unit Heads.
3. In order to promote the primary health care and to train up the potential Nursing Officers, pupil nurses and student nurses are recruited as Nursing members to form a Nursing Officers Central Support Unit. The Unit is under the direct supervision of Nursing Officer Group of Medical Command.

8.4    Entry Qualifications for Nursing Officer

All entry for Nursing Officer should either be Enrolled Nurse (E. N.) or Registered Nurse (R. N.).

8.5    Entry Rank

The entry rank of Registered Nurse and Enrolled Nurse should be Probationary Ambulance Officer.

8.6    Deployment

Each Command/Region/Corps/Division entitles 1 Nursing Officer for professional input. Additional requirement is subject to the Commissioner's approval. The deployment is at the following levels:

[back to General Regulations Table of Contents 回到目錄]

Chapter 9:    Uniform

9.1    Wearing of Uniform

a)    Members on duty must be properly dressed in uniform and be presentable at all times.

b)    Members may wear uniform when proceeding between their residence and place of duty and vice versa.

c)    Officers may wear No.1 uniform for official functions and outside parties, including the attendance of Brigade Inspection of all kinds.

d)    Only Assistant Commissioner rank and above, and equivalent rank of President, are entitled to wear ceremonial dress for:

1. Inspections for Command/Region/Corps/Division;
2. Annual Inspection;
3. Annual Service of Dedication;
4. Remembrance Sunday;
5. Any other official function as may be required.

9.2    Wearing of St. John Blazer

1. Officers may wear St. John Blazer to attend dinner of all kinds in Command/Region/Corps/Division.
2. Officers who are invited to be guests of Command/Regional/Corps/Divisional functions may wear St. John Blazer.

9.3    Wearing of Mess Kit

1. Officers should wear Mess Kit for St. John Annual /Fellowship Dinner.
2. Officers who are invited to attend Dinner or function held by other uniformed/disciplined services may wear Mess Kit, as stipulated in the invitation card, prior to Commissioner's approval.
3. Male Officers should wear Peaked Cap when appear in open area, whereas Female Officers wear no Ladies Hat with Mess Kit, however, hair should be neatly trimmed, cosmetics may be used appropriate to the function with simple and tiny pairs of ear ring.

9.4    Personal Appearance

1. Uniform will be kept clean and neatly pressed. Leather equipment including footwear and metal work will be maintained and polished to a high standard at all times.
2. All male members on duty will be clean shaven. Beard and long side burns are not permitted. They may wear a small moustache providing it is neatly trimmed. The hair will be kept neat, well trimmed and short.
3. All female members on duty will keep their hairs neat and tidy and above the collar of the tunic. Cosmetics may be used in moderation but coloured nail varnish will not be worn. Simple tiny pairs of ear ring is allowed.

9.5    Acting Rank

Member on acting appointment will be entitled the substantial authority of the acting appointment during the period.

9.6    Lanyard

a)    All Officers, male and female, (including President, Surgeon, Dental Officer, Nursing Officer) wears black lanyard with single line around the right shoulder except Other Ranks in their No. 1 uniform only.

b)    Officer who have received Chief Executive of HKSAR Commendation will wear red lanyard in Ceremonial Dress and uniform.

c)    Officer who have received Commissioner's Commendation will wear black-white-cabled lanyard in Ceremonial Dress and uniform.

d)    The position of wearing should be:

1. dress up round the right shoulder passing down the right shoulder strap,
2. with the running end hidden off inside the left upper corner of the right breast pocket.

9.7    Backing of Rank Markings

9.8    Medals & Ribbons

1. Medals will be worn with Ceremonial Dress and No. 1 uniform (Summer uniform for female Officer).
2. Miniature medals will be worn with Mess Kit or evening dress only.
3. Medals will be worn with No. 1 uniform for Annual Inspection and respective units ceremonial function. Otherwise, only ribbons will be worn.
4. Ribbons will be worn on operational uniform.

9.9    Presentation of Insignia Ceremonies by Chief Executive of HKSAR

1. Honours will be announced annually. Presentation will take place in due course.
2. St. John recipients attending the investiture will wear No. 1 uniform of appropriate season (Summer or Winter uniform for female Officers). Decorations and medals should NOT be worn, but only ribbons.
3. Ribbons of medals worn at the investiture should include that of the Order or Decoration being received.
4. Retired recipients should wear No. 1 uniform (appropriate uniform to season for female Officer) with the letter "R" on both shoulder seams.
5. St. John members attending the ceremony as guests are permitted to wear lounge suits.
6. C.E.O. will check with ADC to the Chief Executive prior to each presentation of insignia ceremony to ascertain protocol.
7. On arrival at the Presentation Hall, recipients should leave their caps in the cloakroom and then report to an ADC who will arrange the attaching of a metal hook (on which the Chief Executive will attach the medal to be received) on the recipients' uniform. This hook will be returned to the ADC after the ceremony.

9.10    Dress: Presentation of Long Service Medals and Clasps

1. Recipients should wear No. 1 uniform (winter) with medals.
2. St. John members attending the ceremony as guests should wear No. 1 uniform of the appropriate season with ribbons only.

9.11    Order of Dress

a)    Senior Commanders (Assistant Commissioner rank and above including Honourary Aide-de-Camp) are entitled to wear according to the occasion:

1. Ceremonial Dress
2. Mess Kit
3. No. 1 Uniform (Summer & Winter)
4. Working Dress (Summer & Winter)
5. St. John Blazer

• Senior Commanders are entitled to hold Baton in 66 cm length, 8 cm silver metal head with St. John Badge, 5 em silver metal end, when dressed in all types of uniform except Mess Kit, Working Dress and St. John Blazer.
• All cap badges would be the same (St. John Cap Badge in metal), except the Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner and Brigade President.

b)    Officers from Chief Superintendent to Ambulance Officer rank are entitled to wear according to the occasion:

1. Mess Kit
2. No. 1 Uniform (Summer & Winter)
3. Working Dress (Summer & Winter)
4. St. John Blazer

• Black Baton in 66 cm length will be carried by Senior Officers when dressed in all types of uniform except Mess Kit, Working Dress and St. John Blazer.
• Cap Badge is metal with St. John Badge surmounted by wreath.

c)    Other Ranks are entitled to wear according to the occasion:

1. No. 1 Uniform (Summer & Winter)
2. Working Dress (Summer & Winter)

d)    Lady's Hat:

Hong Kong Police style rounded with white-black band.

e) Surgeon's Cap Peak & No. 1 Uniform:

1. Red seam round the cap;
2. Red seam round the Shoulder strap.

9.12    Rank Markings

*The plain bar for President rank when attached with a Crown (Regional Vice-President) and three pips (Corps Vice-President) will be 0.3 cm in width and punched at the shoulder seam.

Note: Lady's Hat will adopt Woman Police Officer style.

[back to General Regulations Table of Contents 回到目錄]

Chapter 10:    Conduct & Discipline

10.1    Conduct - General

1. The efficiency of the Brigade depends to a great extent upon the confidence, professional ability, conduct and integrity of each and every member of the Brigade. Therefore, the highest standard of conduct, courtesy and discipline is expected from all members of the Brigade.
2. Members of the Brigade shall not directly or indirectly solicit or receive any gratuity, present or subscription from members of the public, relatives of the patient and organisations.
3. An Officer shall not permit an Officer of junior rank to act as his guarantor for a loan.
4. Members of the Brigade shall be prudent in his financial affairs. Serious pecuniary embarrassment from whatever cause is regarded as a circumstance impairs the efficiency of a member.
5. Brigade members when in uniform or on duty shall not take part in any unlawful gambling.
6. A members convicted against criminal law should be discharged immediately.
7. Members of the Brigade shall not embarrass St. John by directly/indirectly associating St. John's name with any political party/political activities/election activities.(added on 22 December 1999 as per Administrative Circular)

10.2    Discipline - General

a)    When evidence has been established and assumed that a disciplinary action is likely to be effective, a thorough report should be prepared by the Unit Head and submitted to respective Assistant Commissioner via normal channel.

b)    Recommendation should be submitted by respective Assistant Commissioner to the Commissioner who will decide whether a Disciplinary Hearing be set up for the case.

c)    Once decision has been made by the Commissioner to form a Disciplinary Hearing, the following procedure should be followed, otherwise the case will be dismissed:

1. The Commissioner will assign a Presiding Officer and a Presenting Officer to conduct the hearing;
2. Presenting Officer must prepare all documents and hand to Defaulter for information;
3. Defaulter will be notified by the Presenting Officer at least 14 working days prior to the commencement of the hearing with full set of documents;
4. Defaulter should address his/her will of employing witnesses, or lawyer in representing him/her at the hearing at least 7 days in writing to the Presiding Officer;
5. Presenting Officer will order witnesses to counter-prove the case during the hearing;
6. All attendance in the Hearing should dress in uniform;
7. Any findings, conclusion or punishment should notify the defaulter immediately at
   the end of the hearing;
8. Full report should be submitted to the Commissioner immediate after the hearing
   was finalised.

10.3    Composition of Hearing

10.4    Hearing Procedure

1. A clean and quiet room will be set aside for the hearing.
2. Presiding and Presenting Officer should adequately prepare themselves for the hearing.
3. Orderly Officer will order the Defaulter to march in.
4. Defaulter will report to the Presiding Officer for attendance.
5. Presiding Officer will order the Presenting Officer to present the case.
6. Defaulter may admit guilty or deny the allegation.
7. If the Defaulter admit guilty, go to underlisted l.
8. If the Defaulter deny the allegation, he/she may call his/her Representative to stand on behalf of him/her for the rest of the hearing.
9. Witness may be called upon by the Presenting Officer with the approval of the Presiding Officer.
10. Questioning the witness to clarify the fact may be done by the Presenting Officer, and so followed by the Defaulter's Representative.
11. Presiding Officer will then allow the Defaulter to call upon his/her witness and questioned by the Presenting Officer and Defaulter's Representative.
12. Presiding Officer will order the Defaulter's Unit Head to present the Defaulter's record, conduct and discipline standing for mercy.
13. Presiding Officer will conclude the case by either adjourn if evidence is still awaited for further investigation or declare verdict.
14. The Defaulter will be notified of his/her right of appeal within 14 working days at the conclusion of the hearing.

10.5    Punishment

1. Fine (not exceed replacement cost of the damaged article)
2. Dismissal
3. Reduction in Rank
4. Severe Reprimand
5. Reprimand
6. Suspension of Duties (added on 22 December 1999 as per Administrative Circular)

Disciplinary action taken will directly affect the offender's confirmation in post, award of honour and promotion for at least three consecutive years that follows.

10.6    Right of Appeal

Defaulter can appeal within 14 working days at the conclusion of the hearing in writing directly to Assistant Commissioner.

On the recommendation of the Assistant Commissioner, the Commissioner may order a Second Hearing to be convened.

[back to General Regulations Table of Contents 回到目錄]

Chapter 11:    Honours, Awards & Commendations

11.1    Type of Awards & Commendations

1. St. John Grand Cross
2. St. John Gold Cross
3. St. John Silver Cross
4. St. John Bronze Cross
5. St. John Long Service Medal
6. Chief Executive of HKSAR's Commendation
7. Commissioner's Commendation

Any other awards as may be introduced by the Honours and Awards Committee.

11.2    Criteria for the Awards & Commendations

a)    St. John Grand Cross - A distinguished award in the highest order for which recommendation should be made by the St. John Council.

b)    St. John Gold Cross - Outstanding performance at Commander's level with the highest calibre towards St. John.

c)    St. John Silver Cross - Outstanding performance at Officer's level with the highest calibre towards St. John.

d)    St. John Bronze Cross - Outstanding performance, for both Officer and Other Ranks, in the highest calibre towards St. John.

e)    St. John Long Service Medal - at least 10 years efficient service.(amended on 13 October 1999 as per Administrative Circular No 6)

f)    Chief Executive of HKSAR's Commendation -
Awarded to members after a recommendation following an outstanding performance both in bravery and exceptional devotion in operations in terms of quality and quantity, or in recognition of leadership, ability, energy, or dedication to duty of an exceptionally high order over a long period.

g)    Commissioner's Commendation -
Awarded after a recommendation following distinction in a specific instance, or in recognition of leadership, ability, energy, or dedication to duty of an exceptionally high order over a long period.

h)    Addition Requirements:

i)    Staff and Operational Member (Officer):

• Eligible member should display outstanding leadership, high degree of commitment, and devotion to commanding or staff affairs on his/her Command/Region/Corps/Division.
• a specific rescue operations under inclement situation.
• The predisposition of commanding or handling staff affairs or operations should reach the high satisfaction of his/her Commander.
• Member commended for the award should be of supreme officer esteem in personal conduct and sense of discipline.

ii)    Staff and Operational Member (Rank & File):

• Eligible member should display pronounced braveness, obedience, commitment, and devotion to a specific rescue operations under inclement situation.
• Member commended for the award should satisfy his/her Commander both in personal conduct and sense of discipline.
• He/She should acquired an average of 80% attendance in Brigade meeting and deploy 80 hours on duty commitment annually.

iii)    Member of President Rank:

• Eligible member should display uttermost support and devotion to Brigade functions and activities in presidential capacity.
• Multitudinous pecuniary uphold for all functions on Command/Region/Corps/Divisional level respectively should be evidentially observed and satisfy to his/her Unit Head.
• President should possess valid St. John First-aid Certificate in order to be eligible for recommendation for the admission to or promotion in the St. John award.

iv) Member of Surgeon Ranks:

• Eligible members should distinctly display prolific development in medical and nursing training to his/her members.
• Unequivocal support in Brigade functions and activities should be accorded.

All submissions should be forwarded by Unit Head via Chief Superintendent of his/her respective Region with recommendations to Assistant Commissioner for endorsement.

i)    Insignia -

Members of the Brigade who have been commended on any kind of St. John awards will wear ribbons or medals on all uniforms as required.

Members of the Brigade who have been commended by the Chief Executive of HKSAR will, when in uniform, wear a Red lanyard round the right shoulder with the running end of the lanyard tucked neatly into the right breast pocket in lieu of wearing the Black-white-cabled or black lanyard.

Members of the Brigade who have been commended by the Commissioner will, when in uniform, wear a Black-white-cabled lanyard round the right shoulder with the running end of the lanyard tucked neatly into the right breast pocket in lieu of wearing the black lanyard.

11.3    Honours and Awards Committee

The function of this Committee is to determine honours, awards and commendations to be granted to individual Officer, Unit or members of the public who are well deserved for the honour by virtue of their contributions to St. John.

The composition of the committee should comprise of:

• Commissioner (Chairman)
• Deputy Commissioner
• All Senior Assistant Commissioners
• All Assistant Commissioners
• Chief Executive Officer (Secretary)

11.4    Command Official Function

Any functions in relation to or initiated by respective Commands should be responsible for overall organising and preparation of that function by the concerned Command, however assistance can be sought from other Commands subject to the approval of the respective Assistant Commissioner.

The following functions are inclusive and be classified as Command Official Functions:

1. Handover ceremony of vehicles or equipment;
2. Commendation Presentation or Award-granting Ceremony;
3. Official Opening of premises;
4. Any functions as respective Assistant Commissioner deem necessary.

[back to General Regulations Table of Contents 回到目錄]

Chapter 12:    Emergency

The objective of this chapter is to provide an operational guidelines for the general conveyance and treatment of patient/casualty on ambulance cases, wherever at scene of accident or disaster.

12.1    General Conveyance and Treatment of Emergency Patients

1. All emergency patients conveyed in St. John ambulances should normally be taken to the designated hospital appropriate to the area in which the call originates.
2. Ambulance Oic shall take an emergency patient to any hospitals at the request of the patient or his/her relative.
3. Upon receipt of the request at paragraph b, if an Ambulance Oic considers that in view of the patient's condition, it would be advisable to take the patient to the nearest Accident & Emergency Department of a designated hospital, the patient or his/her relative should be so advised. Further, if the Ambulance Oic has prior knowledge that the hospital preferred by the patient or his/her relative is unwilling to accept the patient for treatment, the patient or his/her relative should also be so advised. If the patient or his/her relative still insists on the patient's being taken to that hospital, he/she should be requested to sign on the remark column of the Case Record for indicating such request.
4. If on arrival at the hospital preferred by the patient or his/her relative the Ambulance Oic is made aware of the fact that the hospital is unwilling to treat the patient, the Ambulance Oic should offer to convey the patient to another hospital, usually to the Accident & Emergency Department of the nearest hospital, for treatment.
5. Once the patient has been located, he/she should be transported without delay to the hospital in the most attentive manner, suitable treatment should also be rendered in accordance with St. John First Aid Manual.

12.2    Definition of Emergency Calls

Emergency refers to calls for ambulance services when persons have, or are believed to have, sustained injuries or been suddenly taken ill. The extent of their injuries or sickness has, or has not, been identified and they are required to be transferred immediately to a hospital or other place where medical aid is immediately available to them. This category will also include patients who are required to be transferred with extreme urgency from a hospital or institution to an acute hospital for emergency treatment or investigation without delay.

12.3    Removal or Delivery of Patients

1. Patients will be conveyed to such destinations as may be requested or directed by a registered medical practitioner.
2. Only in exceptional cases will Ambulance Oic vary from the aforesaid instructions, e.g. the patient's condition has deteriorated to the extent that immediate medical treatment at the nearest clinic on route is necessary. When exercising discretion, ambulance Oic must bear in mind that they may be required to justify their course of action.

12.4    Carriage of Stretcher Cases

1. It is essential that stretchers bearing patients are carried on a horizontal plane. Particular care must be taken to ensure that the stretcher is kept on a level plane when ascending or descending staircases.
2. All patients under the control of ambulance personnel will be conveyed to and from ambulances on a stretcher or carrying chair except where instructions to the contrary have been given by the Medical or Nursing Officer.

12.5    Admission or Collection of Patients to or from Hospitals

a)    For accidents and other cases where admission has not been previously arranged, the Ambulance Oic will report on arrival to the Medical Officer in charge of Accident & Emergency Department who will advise the Ambulance Oic to:-

1. convey the patient to a consultation cubicle, if the case is urgent, or
2. transfer the patient to a hospital stretcher trolley or wheel chair to wait at a place as directed, if the case is not urgent.

b)    The Ambulance Oic will give the Medical Officer such information as may be helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of the patient.

c)    The registration of patients is the responsibility of the hospital authority. However, if a patient is unaccompanied other than by the ambulance crew, and is unable to give any information for registration, the Ambulance Oic will give the registration officer all available information for this purpose on request.

d)    When the admission has been pre-arranged, the patient will be transferred to a hospital stretcher trolley or wheel chair at the reception point, and the Ambulance Oic will report the patient's arrival to the Admission Officer. The patient will be transferred to the appropriate ward by hospital staff under the Admission Officer's arrangement.

12.6    The Treatment of Violent Injury or Accident Casualties

a)    Such casualties when suffering from vomiting should be carried in the recovery position.  If this can be done with a head-down tilt so much the better, so that any blood, vomit or secretion can drain out of the mouth and will not drain into the lungs.

b)    It is therefore essential that:-

1. All unconscious accident casualties be carried in the recovery position where possible;
2. Pillows are not used to prop the head of any unconscious casualty who for any reason whatsoever cannot be placed in the recovery position.

c)    In exceptional circumstances such as spinal injuries, pregnant females, etc the recovery position could lead to further injury. In all such instances where the unconscious patient is lying on the back, special attention to the maintenance of the airway is essential.

12.7    The Treatment of Heart Attack Victims

1. Patients suspected to be suffering from Heart Attack should be transferred to the nearest hospital as soon as possible.
2. Oxygen should be given all the time and with the patient propped up in sitting position.
3. The use of Automatic External Defibrillator should be carefully considered.
4. Upon arrival of the Accident and Emergency Department of the hospital, the condition of the patient should be informed immediately to the Supervisor incharge of the Accident and Emergency Department.

12.8    Conveyance of Snake Bite Victims

a)    In cases where it is known or suspected, that a snake bite has been caused by a venomous snake, the victim should be conveyed to the following hospitals where anti-snake bite venom serum is available:

1. Hong Kong - Queen Mary Hospital
2. Kowloon - Queen Elizabeth Hospital
3. New Territories
   - Princess Margaret Hospital
   - Prince of Wales Hospital

12.9    Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

a)    The risk of transmission of the AIDS in normal circumstance is minimal. Ambulance members should not be unduly alarmed.

b)    St. John members should follow the undermentioned procedure:

1. Use disposable gloves when exposure to blood and body fluid is anticipated.
2. 2 plastic bags will be used one inside the other to serve as a double-strength receptacle for soiled linen, dressings, etc.
3. Minor cuts or wounds on the hands or arms of crew members should be well dressed before handling the patient.
4. Care should be taken not to come into contact with the patient's blood or excretions.
5. Where there has been contamination to the ambulance equipment, the crew should carry out disinfecting procedure at once on returning to station.
6. Ambulance, Transportation and Communication Section should be notified of the case on completion of the response.
7. Wash hands thoroughly.

12.10    Handling of Bleeding Cases

Ambulance crews are advised to wear disposable gloves provided when handling bleeding cases as a precautionary measure against contagious diseases.

12.11    Ambulance Passengers other than Patients

1. Not more than one person (other than a doctor, nurse, police constable, or ambulance crew) should normally be permitted to travel with the patient. Ambulance Oic should, however, use discretion in prohibiting close relatives from accompanying seriously ill or injured cases.
2. Under normal conditions the maximum number of persons (including crew) to be conveyed in an ambulance will not exceed the number indicated within the ambulance. However under extenuating circumstances, Ambulance Oic may authorise this figure to be exceeded and will instruct drivers to adjust their driving technique accordingly.
3. For maternity cases where the patient carries a baby, the mother and child may count as 1.5 persons.
4. Persons accompanying patients must travel in the stretcher compartment.
5. When an ambulance is carrying a patient, both the Ambulance Oic and the attendant will accompany the patient in the stretcher compartment of the ambulance.
6. Ambulance drivers will not leave their ambulance unattended unless instructed by an Ambulance Oic, or by a more senior member of the Brigade.
7. The conveyance of an emergency case should not be delayed merely for the completion of Police enquiries.  If it is necessary, enquiries can be made by a Police Officer during the patient's journey.

12.12    Conduct of Ambulance Crew

When an ambulance is mobile without a patient on board, the attendant will sit in the attendant's seat with the seat belt fastened.

12.13    Responsibilities in connection with Dead Bodies

a)    The following categories of bodies may be taken as obviously dead and requiring conveyance by coffin van:-

1. Bodies with signs of putrefaction and decomposition;
2. Bodies that have suffered massive injuries, e.g. decapitated or torso separated into more than one part;
3. Bodies which are charred beyond recognition.

b)    When an unknown or unclaimed body in the categories listed in the last paragraph is located by ambulance personnel and the circumstances indicate that death was due to a natural cause, the Ambulance Oic will inform police who will request a coffin van to remove the body to the public mortuary accompanied by a Police Officer.

12.14    Speed Restriction for Ambulances

a)    Ambulances with patients on board will not normally exceed the speed limits laid down by law.  The ambulance speed must be commensurate with the patient's condition or the treatment being rendered to the patient. Should the speed of the ambulance interfere with the ambulance aid treatment being performed, the Ambulance Oic will advise the driver to reduce his speed
accordingly.

b)    In exceptional circumstances where

1. a doctor has advised that utmost urgency is necessary;
2. where the Ambulance Oic considers that the condition of the patient is deteriorating rapidly; or
3. in cases where the patients needs urgent medical aid, e.g. respiration failure, cardiac arrest, massive haemorrhage, acute poisoning or very extensive burns; ambulances will be exempted from the above speed restrictions. However, Oic Ambulance Unit should be informed after completion of the case.

c)    Under no circumstances will the exemption in paragraph b) be used as an excuse for careless, reckless or dangerous driving. All drivers must be fully aware that they are legally responsible for the safety of their vehicle, their passengers and other road users.

12.15    Major Incident and Disaster Field Operation

a)    Major incident can be defined as any incident which because of the number of casualties it produces requires special arrangement to deal with it.

b)    Major incident includes:-

1. Natural Disaster
2. Railway Accident
3. Traffic Accident
4. Aircraft Crash
5. Explosion
6. Building Collapse
7. Fire
8. Earthquake

c)    The following is a general guideline for St. John Ambulances in dealing with the rescue operations of a multiple-casualty incident:-

i)    In major incident and scene of disaster, Police will be responsible for out-bound area control, whereas Fire Services will take the overall command of the in-bound area for rescue operation;

ii)    While reaching at scene of incident or disaster, Ambulance Oic should immediately report to the Command Post, if it has been set up by Fire Services;

iii)    At major incident and disaster, the following posts will be set up by Ambulance Officers of Fire Services, and assisted by St. John Ambulance crew and or Auxiliary Medical Service, all crews should follow the direction of the Site Commander for rescue:

• Ambulance Parking Point
• Patients Loading Point
• Mobile Casualty Treatment Centre
• Ambulance Equipment Collection Point
• Stretcher Collection Point
• Temporary Mortuary

iv)    Ambulance Oic should follow the instruction of the Command Post in the determination of hospital to which a particular ambulance should go in order not to overflow the hospital capacity;

v)    After discharging the casualties to hospital, ambulances should return to the scene, report directly to the Ambulance Parking Point and the Command Post;

vi)    Ambulance Oic can only be allowed to make up under the instruction of the Site Commander, and return to base;

vii)    Oic Ambulance Unit should be informed after the completion of the operation.

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Chapter 13:    Inspection

13.1    General

Types of Inspection:

1. Brigade Annual Inspection
2. Command Inspection
3. Regional Inspection
4. Corps Inspection
5. Divisional Inspection

All members should attend Brigade Annual Inspection and Divisional Inspection in order to fulfil one of the criteria for yearly efficiency.

13.2    Command/Regional/Corps/Divisional Inspection

1. May take any form at the discretion of the Assistant Commissioner.
2. All attending members should wear No.1 uniform with medals if any.
3. Guests who are Officers of the Brigade should also wear No.1 uniform with ribbons if
   any.

13.3    Annual Inspection

1. The Parade Commander will be designated by the Commissioner annually at the rank of Chief Superintendent.
2. All Corps/Divisions in Operational Commands should participate at the Annual Inspection.
3. Written explanation is needed for absence, and be forwarded to Chief Superintendent of Administrative Region for information in advance.

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Chapter 14:    Flags

14.1    The St. John Flag

1. The St. John Flag will be flown at the stern of all St. John premises, all ceremonial occasions and functions and at such other times as the Commissioner may decide.
2. The National Flag and the Hong Kong SAR Flag are always flown in a more prominent position to St. John flag.
3. Cadet colour: A ceremonial flag (size 91cm x 122cm "3ft x 4ft") which has been consecrated and authorised for use on major parades and ceremonial.

14.2    Raising and Lowering of Flags

a)    The following procedures will be observed:

1. the National, Hong Kong SAR and St. John Flags and any other National Flags will be treated with due respect; flags will never be dropped or allowed to touch the ground;
2. the flags will be raised at 0800 hours and lowered at 1800 hours;
3. flags will be attached correctly to the halyard;
4. when raising the flag it will be unfurled and attached to the halyard on the mast; briskly raised to the peak of the mast;
5. the flag will be lowered slowly and it shall be gathered up and held clear of the ground while being removed from the halyard;
6. when the flag is to be flown at half-mast it must first be hoisted to the peak of the mast and then lowered to half-mast. When lowering the flag from half-mast it must first be hoisted to the peak and then lowered completely;
7. when flags have not been flown or have been lowered for reasons of heavy rain or hoisting of Local Storm Warning Signal, they will be flown or re-hoisted soon after the heavy rain is over or Local Storm Warning Signal lowered provided it is before 1800 hours.

b)    Raising and lowering ceremonies shall be supervised from time to time by an Officer not below the rank of Ambulance Officer, or the most senior NCO if no Officer available at scene, to ensure that these procedures are being observed.

c)    Flags shall be regularly inspected to ensure that they are in good condition.  They shall be kept neatly folded and stored when not in use.

d)    Flags will normally be flown at the peak of the mast, and will only be flown at half-mast when ordered by the Commissioner.

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Chapter 15:    Saluting

15.1    General

1. A member below the rank of a Subordinate Officer will salute every member of the rank of Subordinate Officer and above.
2. A Subordinate Officer will salute every Officer of a higher rank than himself/herself.
3. Officers of equal rank will not normally salute each other but when commanding a parade the Officer- in-charge will be saluted as necessary, by all Officers on parade.
4. A Senior Officer will be saluted whether he is in uniform or civilian dress, whereas other Officers will normally be saluted only when in uniform.
5. An Officer wearing civilian dress will not salute but will off his/her headdress, if any, and will in any case draw himself/herself up to attention on the approach of a Senior Officer.
6. A member will stand to attention when speaking to or being addressed by any member senior in rank to himself/herself.
7. Salutes will be acknowledged in the appropriate manner by all Officers.

15.2    Saluting Civil Officials

a)    All members of St. John will salute the following civil officials at all times:

1. Chief Executive of HKSAR;
2. Secretary for Justice;
3. Chief Secretary for Administration;
4. Members of the Executive and Legislative Councils.

b)    A member will salute other civil officers senior to himself/herself as dictated by courtesy and circumstances. Ambulance Officer, or the most senior NCO if no Officer available at scene, to ensure that these procedures are being observed.

15.3    General Exemptions for Saluting

a)    Notwithstanding the preceding orders a member will not salute:

1. when not correctly dressed in uniform, including helmet or cap;
2. when driving a vehicle;
3. when directing or controlling traffic;
4. when engaged on operational duties which necessitate the member's complete and constant attention;
5. when the orders for a particular parade of function prescribe otherwise.

15.4    General Salutes

1. When a General Salute is given only those Officers actually participating in the parade will salute; Officers who are witnessing the ceremony will stand to attention but will not salute.
2. When a group of members of varying rank are together and a more Senior Officer appears, only the senior member will salute and the remainder will come smartly to attention.
3. A member appearing formally before a superior officer in an office will wear head-dress and salute. If permitted to remove his/her headdress he/she will replace it and salute before leaving the office.
4. A member appearing as a witness at a disciplinary tribunal, or before a Senior Officer hearing a defaulter case will wear head-dress and will salute in appropriate manner.

15.5    Saluting at Incidents

a) Notwithstanding the preceding orders saluting at incidents and drills will be restricted to the following occasions:

1. when reporting to an Officer;
2. at the conclusion of receiving orders or instructions from a Senior Officer.

15.6    Method of Saluting

St. John salute is the military style.

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Chapter 16:    Personal Responsibilities

16.1    Personal Particulars

All members will report promptly to Commissioner through proper channel:

1. academic qualification;
2. Paramedic, Ambulance, First-aid, Home Nursing, Instructor qualification;
3. his/her marriage;
4. death of the spouse;
5. divorced or separation;
6. change of next of kin;
7. official change of name;
8. change of residential and office address, fax, pager and mobile phone.

Any change as listed above should be reported to Unit Head together with supporting evidence to facilitate further submission to Commissioner.

16.2    Brigade Identity Card

a)    Each member of the Brigade will be issued with a Brigade Identity Card which will be carried when on duty. The Brigade Identity Card is issued to identify the holder only. It will remain the property of the Brigade and will be kept in a safe place when not being carried.

b)    All members should report promptly when loss of Brigade Identity Card, the following procedure should therefore be followed:

1. The member concerned will make any such enquiries as could lead to the recovery of the lost card;
2. If such enquiries are unsuccessful, the loss will be reported to the Police by the member concerned and the Police Report Book number will be obtained;
3. The loss will be investigated by the Unit Head who will forward a report through normal channel to Commissioner as soon as possible. The Report will include the reasons and circumstances of the loss and the Police Report Book number, together with Unit Head's recommendation;
4. A member who has lost his Brigade Identity Card and is unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for the loss will be required to pay for a replacement.

c)    Handing in Brigade Identity Card:

1. When a member resigns or retires from the Brigade, his Brigade Identity Card will be returned to Commissioner for cancellation.
2. Retired Officers or members who wish to acquire a certification as a matter of identification may approach HQ Command for application and seek Commissioner's approval.

d)    Interdiction:

1. If a member is to be interdicted, his/her Brigade Identity Card will be surrendered to Unit Head for custody. A receipt will be issued to the member concerned. On reinstatement to duty, the Brigade Identity Card will be returned to the member on production of the receipt;
2. If the member is finally dismissed or terminated from service, his Brigade Identity Card will be forwarded to Commissioner for cancellation.

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Chapter 17:    Injury, Death of a Member and Funerals

17.1    Injuries whilst on Duty

In the event of any member injured whilst on duty, detail of the incident must be reported promptly to the Unit Head within 48 hours. The Unit Head concerned must ensure that

a)    the injured member is despatched to hospital for medical treatment promptly;

b)    a message regarding the accident and the result of the medical treatment must be despatched to the Assistant Commissioner of his/her command as soon as possible;

c)    the Unit Head will investigate into the accident and report to the Commissioner through normal channel as soon as possible with the following details:-

1. the nature of the injury;
2. the description of the accident;
3. the time/date and place of the accident;
4. statement from witnesses of the accident;
5. in case of traffic accident, a sketch should also be attached;
6. medical information;
7. medical certificate, if any;
8. Comments.

d)    Unit Head concerned shall also complete in quadruplicate within 7 days the Labour Department's Form 2 (Notice under the Employee's Compensation Ordinance, Cap. 282) for ambulance paid staff.

17.2    St. John Representation

St. John will be represented at a funeral only with the permission of the Commissioner who, when approving such representation, will issue such directives as may be necessary.

17.3    Death of a Serving Member

Immediately the death of any member becomes known, approval will sought from the Commissioner to circulate a tribute list.

1. All tributes received will be passed to the next of kin or dependants.
2. Any donations received will be utilised in strict conformity with the request of
   the donor.

17.4    St. John Funerals(fully revised on 29 December 2000 as per Administrative Circular)

All St. John Funerals should be held subject to the agreement of the next of kin and for active serving Brigade members only.

1. St. John Funeral may be classified as:
1. 1st class Honour Funeral - mainly given to members killed on duty. The following should be observed:
   
   • All Brigade members attending the funeral service should wear No.1 uniform with medal(s) if any.
   • The funeral parade should be formed in a composition of 8 Brigade members: 4 positioned on the left and 4 positioned on the right of the coffin.
   • An Officer is assigned to command the parade and to give orders.
   • 4 members will take up the position of the Covering Ceremony of the St. John Flag and the Parade Commander will fix the Cap/Beret of the dead over the coffin to pay last respect.
   • The parade will take a slow march to the exit of the funeral hall.
2. 2nd Class Honour Funeral - mainly given to Senior Officers (Superintendent and above) who have served the Brigade for not less than 30 years of continuous efficient service. The following should be observed:
   
   • All Brigade members attending the funeral service should wear No.1 uniform with medal(s) if any.
   • The funeral parade should be formed in a composition of 8 Brigade members: 4 positioned on the left and 4 positioned on the right of the coffin.
   • An Officer is assigned to command the parade and to give orders.
   • 4 members will take up the position of the Covering Ceremony of the St. John Flag and the Parade Commander will fix the Cap of the dead over the coffin to pay last respect.
   • The parade will take a slow march to the exit of the funeral hall.
3. 3rd Class Honour Funeral - mainly given to Subordinate Officers (Ambulance Officer to Assistant Superintendent) who have served the Brigade for not less than 30 years of continuous efficient service. The following must be observed:
   
   • All Brigade members attending the funeral service should wear No.1 uniform with medal(s) if any.
   • The funeral parade should be formed in a composition of 8 Brigade members: 4 positioned on the left and 4 positioned on the right of the coffin.
   • An Officer is assigned to command the parade and to give orders.
   • The parade will take a slow march to the exit of the funeral hall.
2. Whether or not a St. John Funeral is given will be at the sole discretion of the Commissioner who will also rule personally on order of ceremony, special honours if any and extent of St. John participation.
3. Chief Superintendent (General Group) will be responsible for overall arrangement of the funeral.

17.5    Local Customs Rites

St. John representatives attending private funerals will call at the funeral parlour or premises where the coffin is resting and pay their last tributes to the deceased according to the custom or religion.

All St. John representatives attending private funerals will ensure that they are briefed on the customs, conventions and beliefs of the deceased.  If deceased's next of kin so requests, St. John representatives may join the cortege to the cemetery.

17.6    Representation at Funerals of Members of Other Disciplined Services / Departments / Organisations

When a member of the Police Force or similar organisation is to be buried with service honours, Senior Commanders will, in consultation with the Commissioner, arrange for a St. John representative to attend the funeral subject to the wishes of the authority concerned.

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END OF GENERAL REGULATIONS