Most people picture a Fire Marshal with their yellow hi-vis vest and a mega phone directing people out of the building and think that that is about as far as their responsibilities go. So it might surprise you to learn that a Fire Marshal’s main duty is actually to PREVENT fires. Whilst they do have an important role to play in evacuating the building, it is the day-to-day duties that they take to prevent fires that are the most beneficial.

Here are a few ‘reactive’ Fire Marshal responsibilities that could keep your business safe from fire….

Checking your EMERGENCY EXITS. They should be free from obstruction at all times, inside and out, and be able to be fully opened.

Checking your FIRE EXTINGUISHERS. Are they are in the right position? Have they been serviced are they indicated by signs?

Testing your FIRE ALARMS weekly. We’ve all experienced the weekly fire alarm test at work. What you might not have realised is that it is often the responsibility of the Fire Marshal to carry out this duty.

Checking your EMERGENCY LIGHTING every month. All the lights should be in working order and if they are not, an electrician or fire safety company should be called out to rectify this.

Organising FIRE DRILLS at least annually. Your whole team should know how to exit the building in case of fire and the evacuation procedure should be assessed to ensure that it works.

These are just a few of the many things that are covered on a Fire Marshal course. Fire Marshal duties are one of the most important contributions to fire safety in your business so is not something that should be taken lightly.

To book a place on one of our courses, or if you have any questions that need answering before you do, please contact us today and we will be happy to help.