Fire Marshal Certificate

In most businesses, there is no difference between Fire Marshals and Fire Wardens, and the terms tend to be used interchangeably. However, at larger companies or in high-risk environments (like workshops), the roles of a Fire Marshal and Fire Warden are more clearly defined. In such cases, a Fire Marshal is responsible for conducting risk assessments and minimising fire risk in the workplace. A Fire Warden, on the other hand, is responsible for the smooth running of emergency procedures, like evacuations.

To become a certified fire marshal or fire warden, you need to attend the 4-hour fire marshal training course, as well as passing the simple multiple-choice assessment. You will receive your fire marshal certificate upon completing the course.

It does not cost anything additional to receive your fire marshal certificate as it is awarded after your training course.

To renew your Fire Marshal Certificate, you will either need to take another training course or complete the shorter refresher training.

To be eligible for a Fire Marshal (or Fire Warden) Certificate, you need to be at least 16 years old and have completed the necessary training.

Fire Marshal Training covers a range of topics designed to help you understand the extent and importance of your role as Fire Marshal/Fire Warden, as well as to teach you how to keep your workplace safe. Some of the content includes Fire safety legislation, common causes of fire, precautions, and procedures. The training only takes 4 hours. 

To satisfy legislation, you need to receive formal Fire Marshal Training. It will also ensure that you are aware of the extent of your duties as a Fire Marshal.

The number of Fire Marshals or Fire Wardens you are required to have, as specified by the Fire Safety Order 2005, depends on the risk factor of your business and the number of employees that you have. When calculating, factors like time required to search an area, the number of staff per floor, and how many members of the public are present should all be accounted for. A common practice is to have a minimum of 1 per level. Don't forget to factor in holidays and sick leave, which means you will need to double this number.

The Fire Marshal Training Course is assessed during the class and has a multiple-choice assessment, which can vary between training providers. As long as you follow what is being taught and can demonstrate what you have learned, you will be fine.

Fire Training can be completed using e-learning. Although this is not ideal for Fire Marshals, as you are limited when asking questions or practicing procedures. However, if you are seeking to promote Fire Safety Awareness to a large number of staff, e-learning could be a simple solution.

Fire Training is beneficial to employers and shows that you have taken responsibility at a previous workplace.

The Fire Safety Order 2005 states that it is the employer's responsibility to provide sufficient Fire Safety to their staff in the form of trained individuals, access to fire extinguishers, fire detection systems, and a safe environment with a thoroughly conducted risk assessment. The Fire Safety Order 2005 also instructs that every business must have a designated responsible person. This individual performs fire risk assessments, plans for emergencies, and communicates procedures to others.

A Fire Risk Assessment examines the level of fire risk in your building and records any action that will be taken to minimize this risk. It is a legal requirement to conduct and regularly update.

Professional Fire Risk Assessors can be brought in to conduct a thorough Fire Risk Assessment. Although not recommended, a Fire Risk Assessment can also be carried out by a designated member of staff. It is essential to ensure they can satisfy all the criteria to avoid severe fines. It is also worth remembering that your Fire Risk Assessment is a crucial part of how you keep your staff safe and should be conducted as thoroughly as possible.