Fire safety training is crucial in the workplace to ensure staff members have a clear understanding of the correct procedures if a fire breaks out. Members of every organisation should be made aware of the fire triangle, evacuation routes, and be provided with knowledge on fire safety equipment. Fire safety training should be completed every twelve months to not only keep staff safe but also any visitors to the building.
Why Does Fire Safety Training Have to Be Refreshed?
As businesses grow, so does the number of staff they employ. Organisations with a particularly high staff turnover regularly see new employees into the building, it shouldn’t be assumed that they know all fire safety procedures. Just as the previous staff members were given an overview of fire safety in their first inductions, so should any new staff.
Additionally, the business may choose to change its premises, which in turn can mean new equipment and fire exits. Both of which equal new fire hazards that all members of the organisation need to be made aware of. Furthermore, annually refreshing fire safety training is a small cost for potentially saving lives.
How is Fire Safety Training Conducted?
As previously mentioned, fire safety training should be introduced to each staff member from their induction. This training can be completed via an online training course or in a hands-on, face to face environment through an accredited fire safety organisation.
The role of a fire warden should be assigned to a member/s of the organisation, making them responsible for ensuring the procedures employees have been taught are correctly implemented. The employer needs to provide access to training and safety equipment such as signs and alarms, but it is the fire warden who must conduct the housekeeping.
What Should be Provided on a Fire Safety Training Course?
The type of fire training the business decides to take on is dependent on what type of organisation they are. It is also important to note that fire training must be conducted irrespective of if you have a small business. Some workplaces, however, may be considered more ‘high risk’ if they work in catering for example, or employ maintenance staff.
Basic fire safety training entails prevention, rules, and regulations, guidance on what to do in the event of a fire, the evacuation process, and information on equipment and fire alarms. Training can additionally build life-long skills as a result of learning how to use fire safety equipment. The confidence built from such courses can provide staff with the ability to remain calm should the worst-case scenario occur.
Remember, it is a legal requirement for employers to provide information, instruction, and training to their employees on fire safety in accordance with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Fire safety training in the workplace is invaluable.
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