Staff Fire Training Requirements

General Fire Safety Training

All staff members should undergo some form of basic fire safety training when they join a company, complimented by refresher courses on a regular basis. By doing this, staff will be prepared in the event of fire, ensuring their own safety and the safety of other people on the premises.

Of vital importance is to ensure that all staff and contractors are informed on matters relating to the emergency plan and the relevant escape routes.

The fire risk assessment should directly relate to the training, ensuring all attendees fully understand the assessment's findings. In addition it should also give all staff members an understanding of their roles in the event of a fire. In larger premises this will probably mean some staff are given complimentary training to carry out specialist fire safety activities.

As well as the advice given to new employees, all staff should have an understanding of the following as a minimum:

* Items included in the emergency plan
* Basic fire prevention measures and the importance of fire doors
* The use of fire fighting equipment, specifically the appropriate tools for certain situations
* The necessity of reporting to the relevant assembly area
* The operation and location of exits and exit routes in the premises; including a practical walkthrough
* How to assist disabled persons in the event of an emergency
* General safety information such as the importance of designated smoking and cooking areas

Training is necessary:

* Whenever staff are employed or transferred to the premises;
* When alterations have been made to the emergency plan or any of the fire prevention and protection measures;
* when staff members' responsibilities or working methods have changes;
* to ascertain the effects of any changes in the risks to staff or other persons;
* in ensuring that staff are aware of the measures to safeguard their personal safety and the safety of others;
* if any staff are expected to assist disabled persons on the premesis, and;
* if a member of staff is to become a duty manager.

The repetition of training is extremely important and should take place within the hours of business.

The training you implement should be able to support the work of your fire safety manager, the fire safety strategy and emergency plan.

Relevant authorities may wish to see proof of your training efforts by examining your records.