Every workplace in Lancashire needs designated fire marshals to ensure fire safety compliance and protect employees in an emergency. Here's everything you need to know about fire marshal training requirements, responsibilities, and best practice.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires all employers to appoint competent persons responsible for fire safety. Untrained fire marshals put your staff, your business, and your legal compliance at risk.
What is a Fire Marshal?
A fire marshal (also known as a fire warden) is a trained employee responsible for fire safety in the workplace. They play a crucial role in fire prevention, emergency evacuation, and ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations across Burnley, Pendle, Colne, and throughout Lancashire.
Legal Requirements Under the Fire Safety Order
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires employers to:
- Conduct and regularly review fire risk assessments
- Implement appropriate fire safety measures
- Provide adequate fire safety training for all staff
- Appoint competent persons (fire marshals) to assist with fire safety
- Maintain fire safety equipment and emergency routes
As a general guide, aim for at least one fire marshal per floor, with additional marshals for larger areas, multiple exits, or higher-risk environments. Shift patterns must also be considered.
Fire Marshal Responsibilities
Day-to-Day Duties:
- Conduct regular fire safety checks of their designated area
- Ensure fire exits are clear, accessible, and properly signed
- Check fire extinguishers and detection equipment are in working order
- Report fire hazards and near-misses to management
- Assist with planning and conducting fire drills
During a Fire Emergency:
- Raise the alarm immediately
- Direct and assist with safe evacuation
- Check their designated area is clear of all persons
- Assist people with mobility issues or disabilities
- Report to the assembly point and account for all persons
- Liaise with the emergency services on arrival
What's Covered in Our Fire Marshal Training
- Fire safety legislation and legal responsibilities
- Fire risk assessment basics and hazard identification
- Fire prevention measures and good housekeeping
- Fire detection and alarm systems
- Types of fire extinguishers and their correct uses
- Evacuation procedures and emergency planning
- Practical fire extinguisher training (live fire or simulation)
- Emergency action planning and documentation
Key Takeaways
- Fire marshal training is a legal requirement under the Fire Safety Order 2005
- Certificates should be renewed annually
- Training takes approximately half a day (3–4 hours)
- On-site training can be tailored to your specific premises and fire arrangements
- Practical extinguisher training is included in our courses
Training Duration and Certification
Fire marshal training typically takes half a day (3–4 hours) and includes both theoretical and practical elements. Certificates are valid for 1 year, after which annual refresher training is strongly recommended to keep knowledge current.
Need On-Site Fire Marshal Training for Your Workplace?
Contact PS Training Services for accredited fire marshal training delivered at your premises across Lancashire and the North West.
Request a Free QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
How many fire marshals does my business need?
At minimum, one fire marshal per floor. Larger buildings, multiple exits, or shift-based workplaces will need more. We can advise based on your specific premises during a free consultation.
How long does fire marshal certification last?
Fire marshal certificates should be renewed annually. Unlike first aid certificates (3 years), fire safety knowledge and procedures can change more frequently, making annual renewal best practice.
Can fire marshal training be delivered on-site?
Yes — and we strongly recommend it. On-site training allows us to tailor the course to your specific building layout, fire safety arrangements, and evacuation procedures.
Does the training include practical extinguisher use?
Yes. Our fire marshal training includes practical extinguisher training so your marshals are confident using the right extinguisher on the right type of fire.