The University of Malta leads by example: enhancing emergency response through stronger teamwork

Emergencies can strike anywhere, at any time, and without warning. When calm routines suddenly break, individuals are faced with unpredictable situations where every single second counts. How prepared are we to handle the unexpected?

In response to these critical scenarios, the University of Malta’s Office for Human Resources and Management and the University Safety Committee, is issuing an expression of interest for UM employees to join the UM’s Emergency Response Team (ERT). The ERT is a specialised group of professionally trained staff members responsible for preparing for and actively responding to campus crises. Their primary responsibilities include providing immediate medical aid, conducting efficient building evacuations, and minimising potential property damage. 

Establishing readiness and past achievements

An organised Emergency Response Team has been actively operating at the University of Malta since 2022 under the direction of the Project Manager, Mr Mario Delicata. The team currently comprises more than 50 qualified members who undergo regular, comprehensive training sessions. This ongoing instruction ensures proficiency across several life-saving disciplines:

• Fire safety awareness and hazard identification
• Emergency medical response and extended first aid protocols
• Severe bleeding control and trauma management
• Incident Command System (ICS) structures for organised crisis leadership
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and the rapid deployment of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), which are strategically placed across all UM campuses

While the existing foundation is robust, a renewed call has been issued to recruit new members to further strengthen the team's operational capacity. The university seeks proactive individuals who are deeply committed to attending routine training modules and are prepared to step forward to protect the community when a real need arises.

A strategic commitment to health and safety

Mr Mario Delicata, Health & Safety Officer at the University of Malta, and the Project Manager of UM’s ERT, speaks about the fundamental necessity of sustaining and scaling this internal team.

“As the University of Malta is one of the largest employers in the country, we recognise the profound responsibility that comes with ensuring the safety, health and overall wellbeing of our entire campus community. 

This initiative reflects the University’s long-term commitment to proactive institutional action. Through continuous training, structured teamwork, and constant readiness, we safeguard our environment. We also hope this initiative serves as an exemplary benchmark for other organisations and employers across Malta to follow suit, reinforcing the vital importance of maintaining trained, internal response teams capable of acting both quickly and effectively when needed most."

How to join the team

By stepping up to join the ERT, you play a direct role in turning our university into a safer environment. Be ready, make a measurable difference, and save lives when it matters most. Furthermore, you will acquire invaluable, life-saving skills that extend far beyond campus, enabling you to protect your loved ones and community in your personal life.

“One of the University of Malta’s most crucial initiatives is the Emergency Response Team. This team is not only about providing first aid; it serves as our first point of contact in the event of an emergency and is the mechanism that keeps the campus safe and prepared. I encourage you to join us, as your contribution can make all the difference in helping to protect our community”, said Ms Amanda Borg Ciantar, Senior Manager at the Office for Human Resources Management & Development. 

All interested members of staff are encouraged to join the ERT by registering online via the online application form. To help us maintain an accurate roster, existing members should also reapply to confirm their continued interest.