Fire wardens and emergency plans

Fires can start suddenly and spread rapidly, posing a serious threat to life and property. Fire wardens play a vital role in safeguarding individuals and property during emergencies, as specified in the Australian Standard AS3745:2010 – Planning for Emergencies in Facilities.

Fire warden training provides them with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage different fire-related workplace scenarios and ensure safe evacuations.

Fire warden role in evacuation planning

An emergency evacuation plan is a set of procedures developed by a PCBU (business, company, or organisation) to help facilitate safe evacuations in case of workplace emergencies. Under Clause 43 of the New South Wales WHS Regulations 2017, employers must provide an effective response in an emergency and must also provide information, training and instruction to all workers in responding to an emergency. Below is a summarized overview of the responsibilities and procedures fire wardens follow in evacuation planning.

• Proactive Approach: Wardens must be familiar with risk management principles to be able to identify potential hazards, and report these and any maintenance issues to management for addressing. Such matters may warrant further risk management procedures. Risk management principles are covered in Clauses 32-28 of the WHS Regulation 2017.

  
  

• Compliance with Regulations: Fire wardens help organizations comply with local fire safety laws and regulations. They ensure that fire safety training and WHS documentation are up to date and in line with regulatory requirements including the overarching responsibilities of the business to provide a safe workplace and manage risks in the first place, as per the WHS Act 2011.

  
  

• Emergency Preparedness: Fire wardens are trained to respond effectively during emergencies. They conduct regular fire drills to familiarize staff with escape routes and emergency protocols.

  
  

• Raising the Alarm: Fire wardens are tasked with quickly raising the alarm during an emergency and contacting the relevant Emergency Service by dialing triple zero (000). They need to be trained to use fire alarm systems efficiently, which involves comprehending how the system works and promptly activating alarms when required.

  
  

• Quick and Timely Response: The main responsibility of fire wardens is to ensure the safety of occupants rather than directly handling emergencies. They are tasked with evaluating the situation and directing occupants to safe assembly areas, prioritizing their safety and reducing risks. Their emphasis is on conducting efficient and safe evacuations.

  
  

• Evacuation Management: Fire wardens guide occupants during evacuations to ensure a swift and safe exit from the building. They take into account the specific needs of individuals with mobility challenges, assisting them in exiting safely. Before departing the floor or area, fire wardens must perform comprehensive final checks, including restrooms, storage rooms, and all occupiable spaces. The main objective is to ensure no one is left behind on the floor. This task is crucial, as it prioritizes the safety of occupants over a subsequent headcount at the assembly area.

  
  

• Firefighting Equipment: Fire wardens need to be knowledgeable about the various types of fire extinguishers and other firefighting tools at their disposal, as well as their suitable uses. Since different fires necessitate different extinguishers, they must understand which extinguisher to employ depending on the fire type.

  
  

• Communication during the crisis: Clear and concise communication is crucial; fire wardens need to inform the Chief Warden about the fire's location, severity, and the status of evacuation procedures.

  
  

• Post-Incident Management: After a fire incident, fire wardens assist in assessing the situation and coordinating with emergency services. They may be called upon to contribute to management's efforts to assess and manage any future potential repeat of the situation.

For more information on WHS training or WHS compliance services, or if you would like help to make your WHS management system even more robust, please feel free to contact us by email at train@courtenell.com.au or phone us on 02 9552 2066