The role of a fire marshal in the workplace As an employer we have the responsibility of maintaining fire safety within our business. The Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005 states that businesses must have a sufficient number of competent people to perform evacuation duties. To make sure we stay on top of our responsibilities and comply with the latest legislation we invited two of our employees, Polly and Allan, to attend a fire marshal course. What fire marshals need to know The fire marshal course provided attendees with the knowledge and skills they need as the responsible fire safety persons. During the course they covered: The role of fire marshal How to react when discovering a fire Common causes of fire Fire drills and evacuation Fire safety legislation Fire safety precautions The chemistry of fire Fire extinguishers were also a key area of focus during the course. Topics on preventing fires and how to correctly use the different types of fire extinguishers were covered and attendees also had the opportunity to practice using these extinguishers during the practical part of the course. On completion of the course Allan and Polly were awarded with a St John Ambulance fire marshal certificate which is valid for 3 years. Benefits to employees and customers Damage to the workplace and injury to employees and visitors can be reduced with adequate fire safety training and the appointment of a fire marshal in the workplace. Polly says “The course was really informative and we both really enjoyed it. With our new found knowledge we have already improved on procedures in the office to provide a safer working environment for our colleagues and visitors.” Polly is also in the process of setting up fire safety awareness training sessions with Allan to being able to pass on information and improve fire safety awareness in the office. Weekly alarm tests, fire extinguisher checks, workplace risk assessments and monthly emergency lighting tests will continue to take place to ensure we comply with fire regulations and keep our employees and visitors safe. More about St John Ambulance St John Ambulance is the leading first aid and health and safety charity in the UK, and are the trainer of choice for hundreds of companies, local authorities and members of the public. Not sure what training you need to meet your workplace requirements? Complete the Fire Marshal Requirements Calculator and fill out the following Fire Safety Checklist to find out exactly what you need. Have any questions? Email us at sales@heason.com or call us on +44 (0) 1403 792 300. Article published on: 15/07/2016 Article last updated on: 15/07/2016