How Often Should Fire Marshal Training Be Renewed?
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO), there is no specific statutory renewal period for fire marshal training. However, industry best practice and fire authority guidance recommend refreshing training every 1 to 3 years.
Why Should Fire Marshal Training Be Refreshed?
Fire marshal skills and knowledge can fade over time. Refresher training ensures that:
- Fire marshals remain confident in implementing fire safety procedures
- Knowledge of current legislation and fire safety standards is maintained
- Any changes to the premises, personnel or fire safety equipment are accounted for
- Emergency evacuation procedures are up to date and effective
- New fire marshals are mentored by experienced colleagues
When Should You Retrain Sooner?
You should arrange refresher training sooner than the standard 1-3 year cycle if:
- Premises changes — Building layout modifications, new rooms, changed escape routes
- Personnel changes — New staff requiring fire marshal duties or turnover of existing marshals
- Fire safety equipment changes — New extinguishers, alarm systems or emergency lighting
- Legislation updates — Changes to fire safety regulations or guidance
- Incident or near-miss — Following any fire-related incident or failed evacuation drill
- Audit findings — Fire authority or insurance inspection reveals gaps in training
Legal Requirements Under RRO 2005
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005:
- Every workplace must have a designated responsible person for fire safety
- The responsible person must ensure that sufficient trained Fire Marshals are appointed
- Fire marshals must be competent to implement fire safety procedures and assist with evacuations
- Training must be repeated periodically to maintain competency
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to appoint and train Fire Marshals under RRO 2005 can result in:
- Enforcement notices — Prohibition or improvement notices from fire authorities
- Unlimited fines — Prosecution by the HSE or local fire authority
- Imprisonment — Up to 2 years for serious breaches by responsible persons
- Civil liability — Compensation claims from affected parties
What Does Fire Marshal Refresher Training Cover?
Refresher training typically includes:
- Updates to fire safety legislation and guidance
- Review of fire risk assessment and evacuation procedures
- Practical use of fire extinguishers
- Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)
- Changes to premises, equipment or personnel
- Lessons learned from fire incidents and near-misses
Book Fire Marshal Training in Yorkshire
Livius Training provides accredited Fire Marshal and Fire Safety Awareness courses at our Boroughbridge centre or on-site across Yorkshire. Certificates are accredited by Highfield Qualifications and valid for 3 years. View fire safety courses or call 01423 396780.
