Fire safety in the workplace is a legal requirement, and every business must take proactive steps to prevent fires, ensure safe evacuation, and comply with UK fire safety laws. One key role in fire safety management is that of a fire warden (or fire marshal), who is responsible for fire prevention measures, evacuation procedures, and fire safety checks.
This guide outlines the legal responsibilities for fire safety, how fire wardens fit into the wider fire risk management framework, and the training requirements for designated fire safety personnel.
Under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, fire safety responsibilities fall on the Responsible Person, which could be:
If multiple parties share responsibility, they must work together to ensure compliance.
The Responsible Person must:
Neglecting these duties can lead to enforcement action, fines, or even prosecution.
A fire risk assessment is a legal requirement and helps businesses identify fire hazards, assess risks, and implement controls.
1. Identify Fire Hazards
2. Identify People at Risk
3. Evaluate Risks & Implement Control Measures
4. Record Findings, Plan & Train
5. Review & Update Regularly
Fire wardens play a key role in implementing and maintaining these safety measures.
A fire warden (or fire marshal) is a trained individual responsible for fire prevention and emergency evacuation in the workplace.
Fire Warden Duties Include:
Fire Safety Checks & Equipment Maintenance
Emergency Preparedness
Evacuation Procedures
Fire Safety Training
The number of fire wardens required depends on workplace size and fire risk level.
The number of fire wardens required depends on:
All shift patterns must be covered, meaning businesses with rotating staff may need additional wardens, but the actual number and arrangements should be determined by your formal risk assessment.
Yes. Fire wardens must be competent and trained to carry out their duties.
Fire Warden Training Covers:
For example, here at SafetyBuyer, we have 4 trained fire marshals who completed the FAA Level 2 Award in Fire Safety (RFQ), a qualification designed for fire wardens, and we are required to complete refresher training every 3 years to stay up to date with fire safety regulations.
Yes. Fire warden coverage is a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, ensuring all businesses have trained personnel for fire safety management.
Ultimate responsibility lies with the Responsible Person (e.g., employer, landlord, manager). However, fire wardens are expected to competently perform their duties, and failure to do so could contribute to fire safety breaches.
Yes. Fire warden training is valid for 3 years, after which a refresher course is required.
Yes - fire safety responsibilities can be split, but all designated wardens must be trained and aware of their role in an emergency.
Fire wardens should wear high-visibility vests or armbands during evacuations for easy identification.
Fire wardens play a vital role in workplace fire safety, ensuring staff are prepared, evacuation procedures run smoothly, and legal requirements are met. But even the best-trained fire warden teams need reliable, high-quality equipment to perform their duties effectively.
At SafetyBuyer, we offer a comprehensive range of fire warden solutions, including:
Explore our Fire Warden Equipment range today.
Need expert advice? Call 0800 043 0161 or email sales@safetybuyer.com we’re here to help ensure your fire safety team is fully prepared.
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