Designating a fire warden is one part of preparing for a workplace emergency. In Ireland, employers must provide suitable emergency plans and procedures, including arrangements for fire-fighting and evacuation, and ensure designated staff have appropriate training and equipment. The plan should reflect the work, premises and people on site.
A fire warden supports the workplace arrangements set by the employer. Depending on the site plan, duties may include raising the alarm, helping people understand the evacuation route, checking an assigned area only where it is safe to do so, reporting hazards and sharing information at the assembly point. A fire warden is not expected to tackle a fire or enter an unsafe or smoke-filled area.
Staff need to know the alarm signal, escape routes, assembly point and who to contact. Employers should consider visitors, contractors and anyone who may need assistance to evacuate. Keep exits and routes clear, explain how to report a fire, and make sure responsibilities are understood by the people assigned to them.
Workplaces change: layouts, staffing, equipment and activities can all affect the plan. Review arrangements when circumstances change and practise procedures so people know what to do. Fire detection and fire-fighting equipment should be maintained and serviced by a competent person as necessary.
The Health and Safety Authority provides further guidance on fire detection, warning and workplace fire safety. Training supports a wider risk-management plan; it does not replace a fire risk assessment or the employer’s emergency arrangements. ACE offers Fire Safety Training for individuals and Irish workplace teams. View the course details or contact ACE about suitability and group arrangements.
