What Is A Fire Marshal and Their Duties?

When it comes to the job of a fire marshal, it is important that you explicitly know the duties. This is an important part of your fire safety procedure, ensuring that it is being carried out effectively.

What is a Fire Marshal, and Their Role?

For more information on what is a fire marshal UK, this post explains in detail the job roles of a fire marshal concerning making sure fires are prevented and that an evacuation plan is in place in the event of a fire and that everyone is evacuated quickly and that fires are extinguished or contained as much as possible.

Fire Marshal Responsibilities & Duties

The role of a fire marshal can be divided into two distinct categories; Proactive and Reactive.

Proactive Fire Marshal Duties:

1. Check emergency exits are free from an obstruction inside and out at all times.
2. Check fire extinguishers are in the right position and not damaged
3. Checking fire doors are in good working order weekly
4. Checking there is appropriate signage for emergency exits and fire extinguishers
5. Break glass call points are visible and have signs along with being properly fixed to the walls
6. Check emergency lighting every month, and if anything is wrong, an electrician or fire safety company should be called to rectify this
7. Weekly fire alarm tests are part of the job role of a fire marshal
8. Checking combustible materials are stored away from heat sources
9. Smoking areas regularly cleaned and ashtrays emptied
10. Hazardous materials stored correctly
11. New staff training in fire safety awareness
12. Refresher courses for all employees
13. Annual fire drills fall under the remit of a UK fire marshal
14. Correct documentation of all fire safety activities
15. Assigning a ‘buddy’ or ‘PEEP’ system (‘Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan’) for more vulnerable colleagues.
16. Fire marshal can help to deliver recommendations in your fire risk assessment.

Reactive Fire Marshal Duties:

1. Raise the alarm in the event of a fire and contact the fire brigade if required
2. Close all doors and fire doors to prevent the fire from spreading
3. Directing people to the emergency exits
4. Assisting disabled or pregnant staff members exit the building or locating their ‘buddy.’
5. Conduct a floor sweep to ensure everyone has left the building
6. Tackle small blazes with fire extinguishers
7. Conducting roll call at the designated assembly point

How Many Fire Marshals Do You Need?

When asking the question of how many fire marshals I need for my business? The answer relates to the severity of the risk of a fire and how many employees you have, the size of your premises, and the hours of operation.

How many fire marshals you need is dependent on a variety of different factors unique to your business. For low-risk areas on one level, e.g. one office on one building floor, 2 fire marshals per 50 people could be sufficient. However,  a kitchen and a dining area in a busy restaurant with 30 employees in the kitchen working three shifts, and a dining area with 8 employees working two shifts and seating for up to 40 customers would require 14 fire marshals spread out over the different shift patterns and located in the kitchen and restaurant areas.

What is a Fire Warden?

A fire warden is a designated person tasked with ensuring that no individuals remain inside a building during emergencies such as fires. They’re involved in the evacuation process in the event of a fire, helping to maintain order, check designated areas, and assist vulnerable individuals. The role of a fire warden is to enforce safety protocols and ensure that all personnel are accounted for during drills or actual emergencies.

Some of the key duties associated with a fire warden include supporting the implementation of emergency arrangements to facilitate safe evacuation during a fire. They also monitor the adequacy of current fire risk control measures and raise awareness with staff about things like fire hazards in the workplace.

What is the Training for a Fire Marshal & How Long Does it Last?

Training for a fire marshal in the UK typically covers various aspects of fire safety, risk assessment, and emergency procedures. The training is comprehensive, usually lasting one to two days, and is offered by various providers such as St John Ambulance. It includes practical and theoretical elements, teaching potential fire marshals how to recognise fire hazards, manage evacuations effectively, and use firefighting equipment such as fire extinguishers. Regular refresher courses are also recommended to keep their knowledge up to date and in line with any new regulations.

The Importance of Fire Marshals & Wardens in the Workplace

Fire marshals and wardens are indispensable in maintaining a safe workplace environment. They ensure that fire safety procedures are implemented and followed, significantly reducing the risk of fire-related incidents. In an emergency, their trained response can be the difference between an orderly evacuation and chaos.

Beyond this, their presence boosts the overall safety awareness among employees, fostering a culture of preparedness and prevention that can save lives and resources in the long run. Their role complies with UK fire regulations in schools, workplaces and public buildings while also instilling a sense of security among the workforce.