We are often asked questions about fire marshals, so this blog is aimed at addressing common questions that we are asked.
Are Fire Wardens and Fire Marshals the same thing?
Yes, they are. They are different names for the same role. A Fire Marshal is responsible for ensuring that fire safety measures are maintained and for conducting/ coordinating evacuations from buildings. It is important that Fire Marshals are trained and understand their duties.
Is it a legal requirement that I have Fire Marshals?
Whilst it is not explicitly a legal requirement to have fire marshals on site, According to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all employers are responsible for the safety of their employees. Having fire marshals is one of the best ways of achieving this. If you don’t have fire marshals, how else will you manage fire safety and evacuations?
Although not explicitly stated in the law as a requirement, appointing fire marshals, who have the skills and competence to ensure the best practices of fire safety are followed, may be necessary for you to stay compliant with the fire safety regulations.
How many Fire Marshals do I need?
The number of fire marshals you need depends on a several factors, such as size of premises, type of business, how may people will be on the premises at any one time, and whether your business is classed as low, normal, or high fire risk. These can be determined by conducting a fire risk assessment
What are the responsibilities of a Fire Marshal?
The responsibilities of a fire marshal can be put into two categories pro-active and reactive. The proactive responsibilities are to make checks to identify possible hazards that could cause a fire and take steps to minimise the risks. The reactive responsibilities are the duties that the fire marshal must carry out in the unfortunate event of a fire.
Pro-active responsibilities include:
- Checking Emergency exits are clear and not obstructed at all times and are able to be opened.
- Check fire extinguishers are in the correct position, have appropriate signage, and have been serviced.
- Check that fire doors are in good working order and are kept closed.
- Check all breaking glass fire alarms are well signed.
- Check emergency lighting is in good working order.
- Carry out frequent fire alarm tests
- Carry out fire drills and evacuation procedures to prepare for any emergency
- Check that fire safety signs are in the correct positions and adhered securely
- Carry out good general housekeeping such as keeping hazardous substances stored correctly away from any heat sources. Keeping exit routes clear from any obstructions.
Reactive duties to be carried out in the event of a fire include:
- Raising the alarm in-house and contacting the emergency services.
- Closing all doors to help prevent the spread of fire
- Guiding people to the emergency exits and follow the evacuation plan.
- Conducting a sweep of the building, including bathrooms and storage areas to ensure everyone has left the building.
- Carry out a roll call and head count at the assembly point following the evacuation.
- Tackling small fires with fire extinguishers if it is safe to do so.
How can JCH Safety help?
JCH Safety can provide a Fire Risk Assessment to determine how many Fire Marshals you need.
We offer a suite of RoSPA approved (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) online fire safety training courses which include Fire Awareness training, Fire Extinguisher Training, Fire Marshal training and Fire Marshal for Care Homes.
Our Fire Marshal online training course is designed to provide you with the knowledge to carry out the functions and duties of a fire marshal. This online course offers a comprehensive training solution which is certified upon completion.
This course also contains all the content available in the Basic Fire Awareness and Fire Extinguisher courses.
The key points for the Fire Marshal online training course are that it is a fast and effective way of interactive learning with the opportunity to stop and start the course as needed, given the learner the choice to complete the course at their own pace. By completing the course, you will have improved legal compliance for your business and effective evidence of quality training.
How much does it cost for Fire Marshal Training?
The cost for the online course is £35.00 per licence (per person), but we are giving you the opportunity to “try before you buy”. You can sign up for a free trial, which includes the first module at no cost to yourself.
In Addition to online Fire training, we provide a variety of Health and Safety online training courses, which also include a free trial, as well as classroom style training courses.
Please read more on our website or get in touch to find out more.
