What Is a Fire Warden, and What Role Do They Play in the Workplace?

In the event of an emergency, having a well-trained fire warden in the workplace can mean the difference between safety and tragedy.

A fire warden is a responsible person who ensures the safe evacuation of building occupants in emergency situations.

They play a crucial role in implementing emergency procedures, risk control measures, and evacuation plans to minimise potential risks.

In Australia, workplaces need to have a fire warden trained in fire warden responsibilities and duties, including responding to fire alarms, conducting evacuation drills, and identifying vulnerable people who may require assistance.

Importance of Having a Fire Warden in the Workplace

While having a fire warden in the workplace may seem like an added expense, their role is crucial in ensuring the safety of employees and visitors in emergency situations.

Reducing the Risk of Fire-Related Accidents

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, fires in Australian workplaces result in an average of 45 injuries and 5 fatalities annually.

Having a trained fire warden can help prevent such incidents by identifying potential risks and implementing risk control measures.

Ensuring Compliance with Fire Safety Regulations

Fire wardens play a crucial role in ensuring that their workplace meets all the legal requirements for fire safety, including conducting regular evacuation drills and maintaining safety equipment such as portable fire extinguishers and emergency lighting.

Reducing the level of risk in the workplace is a critical aspect of a fire warden’s responsibilities.

Responsibilities of a Fire Warden

1. Schedule and conduct fire drills regularly.
2. Ensure all occupants are familiar with emergency plans and exit routes.
3. Perform risk assessments to identify potential fire hazards.
4. Report identified hazards to the responsible person or management.
5. Take proactive measures to mitigate risks, such as checking for faulty electrical equipment, improper storage of hazardous materials, and ensuring clear exit routes.
6. Regularly inspect and maintain fire safety equipment like portable fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, and fire alarms.
7. Ensure equipment is in good working condition and easily accessible.
8. Make sure all building occupants know how to use fire safety equipment.

Legal Requirements

To ensure a safe working environment, it’s necessary to know the legal requirements surrounding fire safety in the workplace.

Overview of Fire Safety Legislation

In Australia, the primary legislation governing fire safety is the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act) and the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017 (WHS Regulations).

These laws outline the responsibilities of employers, employees, and other stakeholders in maintaining a safe work environment.

Employer Responsibilities in Fire Safety

Under the WHS Act, employers must identify potential risks, implement risk control measures, and provide a safe evacuation plan in emergency situations.

Safety procedures, including evacuation routes, emergency lighting, and portable fire extinguishers, must be in place and regularly tested to ensure their effectiveness. Employers must also provide fire warden training in Canberra or other locations, as required, to ensure that their employees are equipped to respond appropriately in emergency events.

Employee Responsibilities in Fire Safety

Employer obligations are complemented by employee responsibilities in fire safety. Employees must cooperate with their employer to ensure a safe working environment, participate in evacuation drills, and follow safety procedures in emergency situations.

To ensure a successful evacuation, employees must be aware of their exit route, the location of safety equipment, and the procedures for reporting emergencies.

Remember to check out our fire warden training in Canberra to ensure your workplace is compliant with legal requirements.

Recommended Training and Qualifications for Fire Wardens

Recommended training programs for fire wardens should cover topics such as fire behaviour, emergency response, and evacuation procedures.

Another important aspect of Fire Warden training is learning about the emergency control organisation and the roles and responsibilities of each team member.

This ensures that the fire warden can effectively coordinate with other team members during emergency events.

Certification and Accreditation for Fire Wardens

A fire warden should undergo training programs that meet the legal requirements and industry standards, such as those set by the Australian Standards.

After completing the course, participants should receive an accreditation based on nationally recognised competencies.

PUAWER005B– Operate as part of an emergency control organisation.

CPPFES2005A– Demonstrate first attack firefighting equipment.

Australian Standards recommend that fire wardens refresh their training every two years.

Training programs should also provide certification upon successful completion, ensuring the fire warden has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively.

This certification can also serve as proof of compliance with legal requirements and industry standards.

Tools Used by the Fire Warden to Perform Their Duties

Unlike other employees, a fire warden has specific tools at their disposal to ensure the safety of everyone in the workplace during emergency situations.

Fire Extinguishers and Equipment

Essential equipment such as portable fire extinguishers, fire hoses, and safety gear are vital tools for the Fire Warden.

These tools enable them to respond effectively in emergency situations and evacuate building occupants safely.

Communication Devices and Alarms

To perform their duties efficiently, fire wardens rely on communication devices such as two-way radios, public address systems, and alarm systems to alert others in the event of a fire.

These devices facilitate swift communication, enabling the fire warden to coordinate evacuation procedures and ensure safety.

Communication is key in emergency situations, and the fire warden’s ability to quickly disseminate information is crucial in preventing panic and ensuring a safe evacuation. Effective communication also enables the fire warden to coordinate with emergency services and other responsible personnel to respond to the emergency.

Fire Warden Checklist in Australia

WHS Regulation 2011 requires that a fire warden receive a checklist.

The form should be filled out every six months.

The inspector is asked a series of questions to which he can respond with yes, no or do not know.

The questions are divided in two categories: (1) Item, and (2) Spot-Check/Inspection Items.

Item

• Is a white vest (or hat?) available?
• Is it possible to get a yellow vest or hat?
• What are the different red vests or hats available?
• What is the list of all doors and their numbers?
• Does the evacuation plan appear in a prominent location?
• Are emergency procedure flip-chats public?
• Are there enough wardens?
• Have an adequate number of fire wardens been trained?
• Has a communications officer been appointed?(If required)?
• Does your institute have a current Disaster Management Contingency Plan?

Spot-Check/ Inspection Items

• Is it possible to locate the area of emergency assembly?
• Do you know the alternate assembly area?
• Do you know the location of your electrical switchboard?
• Do you turn off electrical appliances at night?
• Has the electrical equipment been tagged and tested
• Are emergency exits lit up?
• Does the fire extinguisher have the current yellow label?
• Are all fire extinguishers easily accessible?
• Does the fire exit have a clear passage?
• Does the area around the fire exits have a clear 2-metre perimeter?
• Are the alarms audible in all areas of the building?
• Do you know the date of your last evacuation drill?
• Has the entire staff been trained in emergency preparedness?

How to Become a Fire Warden?

Despite the importance of fire wardens in the workplace, many people are unsure how to take on this crucial role.

Volunteering for the Role

Occasionally, employers may request volunteers to take on the role of fire warden. If you’re interested in becoming a fire warden, consider speaking with your supervisor or HR department to express your interest.

Meeting the Basic Requirements

Warden candidates should be physically capable of responding to emergency situations and have a clear understanding of the workplace layout, including evacuation routes and the location of safety equipment.

Basic requirements may also include being at least 18 years old, having a good understanding of English, and being able to communicate effectively with others. Additionally, fire wardens should be familiar with the workplace’s emergency procedures and risk control measures.

Developing the Necessary Skills and Knowledge

One of the key aspects of becoming a fire warden is undergoing comprehensive training, such as fire warden training in Canberra.

This fire warden training covers crucial topics, including evacuation procedures, emergency lighting, and the use of portable fire extinguishers.

Developing the necessary skills and knowledge involves understanding the legal requirements and responsibilities associated with being a fire warden.

This includes knowing what to do when a fire alarm sounds, how to safely evacuate vulnerable people, and how to identify potential risks in the workplace.

Fire Warden Responsibilities

Fire Warden duties when a fire alarm sounds

1. Quickly identify the source of the alarm.
2. Investigate the cause of the alarm.
3. Notify the emergency control organisation.
4. Coordinate the evacuation routes.
5. Ensure all building occupants are safely evacuated.
6. Identify and assist vulnerable people, such as those with impairments (impaired people).
7. Be familiar with the evacuation plan and safety procedures.
8. Know the evacuation routes, emergency lighting, and exit routes.
9. Direct building occupants to safety quickly and efficiently.
10. Be trained to respond to medical emergencies, such as cardiac arrests or injuries.
11. Remain calm and composed while administering first aid.
12. Provide reassurance to those affected until professional medical help arrives.
13. Know the location and proper use of safety equipment, like portable fire extinguishers.

Fire Warden’s Role in Fire Prevention

1. Perform frequent fire risk assessments to spot potential hazards.
2. Review assessment results and update the emergency plan.
3. Ensure all employees are aware of any changes.
4. Check for faulty electrical equipment and obstructed exit routes.
5. Look for improperly stored hazardous materials.
6. Arrange for repairs or replacements of faulty equipment.
7. Train employees on the safe use of hazardous materials.
8. Install smoke detectors, emergency lighting, and portable fire extinguishers.
9. Ensure these measures are in place and functioning.
10. Educate employees on how to use fire prevention equipment.
11. Regularly maintain electrical equipment.
12. Ensure safe storage and handling of hazardous materials.

Best Practices for Fire Wardens

• Document regular fire drills and equipment inspections.
• Keep accurate records of fire safety training, evacuation drills, and equipment maintenance.
• Regularly audit the workplace to identify potential risks and hazards.
• Check emergency lighting, exit routes, and portable fire extinguishers.
• Implement improvements and risk control measures based on audit findings.
• Provide additional safety training as needed.
• Ensure safe evacuation plans for vulnerable people.
• Wear a distinctive uniform or badge to be easily identifiable.
• Be available to answer questions and provide guidance on fire safety.
• Ensure employees know who to approach with concerns or in an emergency.

How many Fire Wardens do you need?

The number of fire wardens depends on many factors including:

• The size of your premises.
• The number of employees in the company or organisation.
• Within two and a quarter minutes after a fire alarm is activated, a fire warden must be able to conduct a sweep through the workplace to reach a safe place or assembly point.
• Multiple fire wardens are needed if there are many employees or many vulnerable people in the workplace.
• It’s best to have more than one person trained to perform the fire warden’s duties, as a fire warden may be away from work due to illness or different shifts.

Summing up

Conclusively, a Fire Warden plays a crucial role in the workplace, ensuring the safety of building occupants during emergency situations.

They are responsible for implementing evacuation procedures, conducting regular drills, and identifying potential risks to develop effective risk control measures.

By undergoing fire warden training in Canberra, individuals can equip themselves with the necessary skills to respond efficiently when a fire alarm sounds.

Ultimately, the successful completion of their duties is vital in ensuring a safe evacuation of vulnerable people, including impaired people, during emergency events.