Appointing fire marshals 

When appointing fire marshals, the employer should consider the following factors: 

• Number of fire marshals: The number of fire marshals required will depend on the size and complexity of the workplace. There should be at least one fire marshal for every fifty people on the premises. However, more fire marshals may be needed if the workplace is large or complex, or if there are multiple people with disabilities or other special needs. 
• Location of fire marshals: Fire marshals should be evenly distributed throughout the workplace so that they can quickly respond to a fire in any area. 

• Personal qualities: Fire marshals should be responsible, organised, and able to think clearly under pressure. They should also be physically fit and be able to communicate effectively with others. 

Training fire marshals 

Fire marshals should receive comprehensive training on fire safety procedures and their responsibilities. The training should cover the following topics: 

• Fire safety risk assessment: Fire marshals need to be able to identify and assess fire risks in the workplace. 

• Fire safety procedures: Fire marshals need to be familiar with the fire safety procedures in place at the workplace, including evacuation procedures, fire alarm testing, and fire extinguisher use. 
• Emergency response: Fire marshals need to know how to respond to a fire in the workplace. This includes sounding the fire alarm, evacuating people, and fighting the fire if possible. 
• People with disabilities: Fire marshals need to be aware of the needs of people with disabilities and how to help them evacuate the workplace safely. 

In addition to the above topics, fire marshals may also need to be trained on specific fire safety equipment or procedures that are used in the workplace. For example, if the workplace has a complex fire alarm system, fire marshals will need to be trained on its operation and features. 

Ongoing training and support 

Fire marshals should receive regular refresher training on fire safety procedures. This will help them to stay up to date on the latest fire safety regulations and best practices. Fire marshals should also be provided with support from the employer, such as access to resources and training opportunities. 

Additional considerations 

• Diversity: Fire marshals should be representative of the diversity of the workforce. This will help to ensure that everyone’s needs are met in the event of a fire. 
• Language skills: If the workplace has a diverse workforce, it is important to appoint fire marshals who speak the languages that are most spoken. This will help to ensure that everyone can understand the fire safety instructions. 

• Accessibility: Fire marshals should be able to access all areas of the workplace, including areas that are used by people with disabilities. 

Tips for appointing and training effective fire marshals 

• Select the right people: When appointing fire marshals, select people who are responsible, organised, and able to think clearly under pressure. They should also be physically fit and be able to communicate effectively with others. 

• Provide comprehensive training: Fire marshals must receive comprehensive training on fire safety procedures and their responsibilities. The training should cover all aspects of fire safety, from identifying and assessing fire risks to responding to a fire in the workplace. 
• Provide ongoing support: Fire marshals should receive regular refresher training on fire safety procedures. They should also be provided with support from the employer, such as access to resources and training opportunities. 
• Involve fire marshals in developing and implementing fire safety procedures: Fire marshals have a valuable understanding of the workplace and the people who work there. Involve them in developing and implementing fire safety procedures to ensure that they are effective and practical. 
• Recognise and reward fire marshals: Fire marshals play a vital role in the safety of the workplace. Recognise and reward their efforts to help keep everyone safe. 

By appointing and training effective fire marshals, employers can help to ensure the safety of their employees and visitors in the event of a fire. 

The iProtectU health and safety software provides: 

• An inspection and Audit App which allows for safety inspection of the workplace and associated report 
• eLearning on a wide range of EHS topics including fire safety 
• Scheduling functionality for managers to send eLearning, risk assessments and documents out to all staff via the software with tracks completion and compliance 
• Risk assessment templates covering fire marshal requirements  

• Management system to document control the policy on fire marshal requirements 
• Method Statement module for the creation of working instructions 
• Legal register that provides legislation guidance on fire marshal requirements 
• Incident investigation module that tracks incidents involving fire hazards both with an app and via desktop 
• Hazard observation app where staff can report and record any concerns regarding fire safety to the organisation 

• Asset management App ensuring assets are recorded in the software