What Does a Fire Marshal Do?

A fire marshal is a trained member of staff responsible for preventing fires, maintaining fire safety systems, and leading evacuations in the workplace. They play a critical role in keeping people safe under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Core Duties of a Fire Marshal

Fire marshal responsibilities typically fall into three categories: prevention, preparation, and emergency response.

Prevention

• Carrying out regular fire risk assessments and workplace inspections
• Identifying fire hazards such as blocked exits, faulty wiring, and improper storage of flammable materials
• Ensuring housekeeping standards minimise fire risk
• Reporting deficiencies to management and recommending improvements

Preparation

• Checking fire detection and alarm systems are working
• Inspecting fire extinguishers, fire doors, emergency lighting, and signage
• Ensuring escape routes are clear and accessible
• Helping develop and update the fire evacuation plan
• Assisting with Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for disabled colleagues
• Organising and leading fire drills

Emergency Response

• Raising the alarm and calling the fire service
• Guiding people to the nearest safe exit
• Sweeping their designated area to confirm everyone has evacuated
• Accounting for all personnel at the assembly point
• Liaising with the fire service on arrival
• Preventing re-entry until the all-clear is given

Fire Marshal vs Fire Warden — What's the Difference?

In most UK workplaces, the terms "fire marshal" and "fire warden" are used interchangeably. There is no legal distinction between the two roles. However, in practice:

How Many Fire Marshals Does a Workplace Need?

There is no fixed legal number. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires the "responsible person" to appoint a sufficient number of competent people to assist with fire safety. General guidance suggests:

• Low-risk premises (offices, shops) — at least one fire marshal per floor
• Medium-risk premises — one fire marshal per 50 employees
• High-risk premises (warehouses, factories) — one fire marshal per 20 employees

You should also account for shift patterns, holidays, and absences to ensure there is always a trained fire marshal on site.

What Training Do Fire Marshals Need?

Fire marshals should receive training that covers:

• Fire science — how fires start, spread, and behave
• Fire prevention — identifying and eliminating hazards
• Fire risk assessment — the five-step process
• Fire safety legislation — the Fire Safety Order 2005
• Fire extinguisher types and their correct use
• Evacuation procedures and assembly point management
• Record keeping and fire safety management

Training should be refreshed annually or when there are significant changes to the workplace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is fire marshal training a legal requirement?

Yes. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the responsible person must ensure that employees are provided with adequate fire safety training. Anyone designated as a fire marshal needs specific training to carry out their duties competently.

How long does fire marshal training take?

Typical fire marshal training courses take between 3 and 5 hours, depending on the level and depth of content. Our online Fire Marshal Level 3 course takes approximately 5 hours.

Do fire marshals get paid extra?

There is no legal requirement for additional pay. However, some employers offer a small supplement or recognise the role in performance reviews. It is an excellent addition to your CV and demonstrates leadership and responsibility.