The Fire Marshal’s Duties and Responsibilities

Being the fire marshall requires organisation, a calm and composed mindset and leadership. To help future fire marshals we have put together a list of responsibilities and duties that a fire marshal must face daily. We have also listed what is required of the fire marshal should a call to arms be raised and emergency occur.

Daily Responsibilities of the Fire Marshal

Day to day the fire marshall has responsibilities to make sure the working environment is safe in case of a fire. They must check that:

• Fire Doors and Fire Exits are closed, clear, unlocked and ready for use.
• All escape routes are safe, unblocked and clear.
• Fire extinguishers are sealed and in the correct locations.
• There are fire safety signs clearly in position
• Fire alarms are clear and unobstructed.
• Faulty emergency lighting must be reported.
• All weekly fire alarm tests should be reported if faulty.
• All persons with disabilities are facilitated in the event of an evacuation

Fire Marshal’s Responsibility in the Event of an Emergency

In the event of an emergency it is time for the fire marshal to take charge. Follow these procedures and keep your colleagues safe, but remember to evaluate your site specific procedures for variations before doing so.

• Upon hearing the fire alarm:
• Should you have a Fire Marshal Kit, open it and grab your kit.
• Start the evacuation of your site.
• Check using that your site is empty and everyone has left.
• Ensure everyone who is struggling to leave the area is assisted and taken out.
• Head to the fire assembly area.
• Take a register of your colleagues.
• Gather information from colleagues and other fire marshals.
• Is everyone accounted for?
• Where is the fire?
• What started the fire?
• Anything else of relevance to the fire service
• Report the information to the fire officer in charge.

Always consult health and safety experts and talk to you local fire safety officer to find out more.

learn more about our kitted or empty fire marshal kit bag here, make sure your workplace is safe and prepared!