The Standard Bank building on Ellis Street, just off William Nicol Drive, was evacuated on Tuesday, January 20, following a fire on the premises.

When the Roodepoort Record arrived on scene, security personnel were assisting with the safe evacuation of staff and directing traffic as vehicles exited the office park. The Record was denied access to the premises.

Standard Bank spokesperson Ross Linstrom confirmed that the fire originated in a container located on the grounds, outside of the buildings.

“The container houses batteries for the solar system,” he said.

“The Johannesburg Fire Department and emergency services are on site and are actively managing the situation,” Linstrom added.

“No staff members or customers have been injured.”

@caxton.jhbwest Vehicles being evacuated from the back of the building at Standard Bank in Constantia Kloof near the container where a fire originated. #fire #standardbank #fireroodepoort ♬ original sound – Caxton JHB West 

Linstrom said that, in line with Standard Bank’s established emergency procedures, employees working in the office park were asked to vacate the buildings due to smoke in the surrounding area.

“All evacuation protocols were implemented smoothly, and staff have been moved to the designated assembly points.

“Standard Bank is working closely with emergency responders to ensure the safety of all personnel and to limit any disruption to operations. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”