1. What Fire Safety training does my business need to undertake in order to be legally compliant?
Section 18 Part 2 of the Fire Services Act 1981 & 2003 states…
It shall be the duty of every person having control over premises to which this section applies, to…
(a) Take all reasonable measures to guard against the outbreak of fire on such premises
(b) Provide reasonable fire safety measures for such premises and prepare and provide appropriate fire safety procedures for ensuring the safety of persons on such premises
(c) Ensure that the fire safety measures and procedures referred to in paragraph (b) are applied at all times
(d) Ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the safety of persons on the premises in the event of an outbreak of fire whether such outbreak has occurred or not
So, each business must insure that their staff undergo fire safety training and certification every two years.
2. Do all my staff members need to undertake this training?
Yes, all staff - including temporary staff - should receive fire safety training and certification. And this applies to management too.
3. What form does the training take? Is there a test?
During the training there is a class-room presentation and there is also a practical element (see below) so participants can get their hands on some fire safety equipment.
Yes, there is a test, but our trainer will cover all the elements during the presentation and fire safety is, in essence, common sense so participants are well equipped to complete the test at the end of the training session – and take onboard some potentially life-saving skills which can be effective in the workplace and at home.
4. Are there practical elements to the training?
Yes, as mentioned there are practical elements to the training as we must ensure that all participants are comfortable with using fire safety equipment in the event of a fire.
To this end there is hands-on training regarding the selection and use of fire extinguishers. You will need to demonstrate that you are competent in the handling and selection of the different extinguisher types that can be found in your workplace.
5. How long does the training take?
Well, this really depends on the training and the number of attendees. However, for a Basic Fire Safety training course you should allow approximately three hours.
6. Can I get this training tailored to my business workplace?
Yes, of course. Please contact SafeHands Health and Safety Solutions so you can discuss any requirements you may have with a member of our staff, and we will endeavour to tailor the training to your needs.
Remember, we are here to help you to become Fire Safety compliant.
7. How often does it need to be updated?
Best practice dictates that the training and certification should be repeated every two years. It will depend on the nature of your business and your site-specific Fire Risk Assessment recommendations, which we can also provide. Again, give us a call at SafeHands and we can guide you.
We also send reminders when your training is due to be updated so you remain in SafeHands.
8. What are the consequences if I do not have my staff trained in Fire Safety?
They are not good, you may leave yourself open to prosecution under the Fire Services Act 1981 and 2003, and also the Health and Safety at Work Act 2005. Penalties for non-compliance can range up to €13,000 per day and up to a €130,000 fine and/or a two-year prison sentence.
These sorts of penalties cans spell the end for a lot of businesses, so is it really worth putting your fire safety training on the long finger?
And obviously there is the potential for loss of life if a fire does break out at your premises, so staff need to be aware of how to keep themselves and others safe in the event of a fire.
9. Should this training be delivered online or onsite?
Onsite training at your premises is essential. This is not a box ticking exercise. Your staff need to know what to do in the event of a fire and this level of training can only be provided onsite and face-to-face. Look, you could be dealing with life-or-death situations, so get the proper level of training and give the onsite health and safety training specialists a call, SafeHands.
10. What other Fire Safety services does SafeHands provide?
We also provide Fire Warden and Fire Manager training in addition to the Basic Fire Safety Awareness training course. Give is a call or check out or website for more details.
If you require Fire Safety training and certification for your staff, please contact SafeHands by phone on 01-7979836 or mobile on 0873823223, email info@safehands.ie or visit our website https://www.safehands.ie.