Fire safety in the workplace is a team effort in which different roles work together to ensure safety in the workplace. Who are the most important people involved in operational fire safety, what are their tasks and how do they keep their knowledge up to date?
Central persons in fire protection
The responsibility for operational fire safety lies with employers, such as managing directors or entrepreneurs. However, they often delegate some of their duties to other people, such as fire safety officers who work in preventive, defensive and organisational fire safety. Depending on the situation and legal requirements, specialist fire protection planners or specialists for fire alarm and voice alarm systems may also be required.
The specialist fire protection planner
A specialist fire protection planner advises companies in all phases of structural, system-related and organisational fire protection. He helps with compliance with legal requirements and insurance requirements. He is involved in various construction phases for new or existing buildings and supports architects with planning and authorisation.
Fire alarm and voice alarm systems
Three roles play an important part in the installation, maintenance and servicing of fire alarm and voice alarm systems: the responsible person, the trained person and the competent person. They all contribute to the proper functioning and reliable operation of the systems.
Fire safety helper
Fire safety assistants are responsible for reporting fires, fighting incipient fires and evacuation. Their number depends on the size of the company and the fire risk. Regular training is necessary to keep their skills up to date.
Fire protection training
It is not only in the interests of the employer, but also required by law, that the various parties involved in fire safety at the workplace undergo regular further training. Fire safety officers, fire safety assistants, responsible persons and authorised and instructed persons must be trained at regular intervals in order to keep their knowledge and skills up to date.
Although company fire safety may seem like a chore at first glance, it plays a key role in minimising existential risks for companies. Investing in the education and training of the various stakeholders pays off by ensuring safety in the workplace and enabling smooth operations in the event of an emergency.