How Many First Aiders Does My Business Need?
The HSE does not give a magic number. Here is how to work out the right number of first aiders for your workplace, and which course they need.
Fire Marshal vs Fire Warden: What Is the Difference?
In everyday use, most businesses in Dorset use "fire marshal" and "fire warden" to mean the same thing: a member of staff trained to help everyone evacuate safely. The Fire Safety Order does not use either term; it simply requires the responsible person to nominate enough "competent persons".
The traditional distinction
Historically, a fire warden is proactive: they carry out routine checks, keep fire exits clear, test alarms and report hazards. A fire marshal is reactive: during an evacuation they sweep their area, direct people to exits, assist anyone who needs help and report to the assembly point.
In most small and medium businesses the same people do both jobs, which is why our Fire Marshal course covers both sets of duties.
How many do you need?
Your fire risk assessment should say. A common guide is one per floor or one for every 20 people, plus cover for absences.
Training
Fire marshals should receive practical training, including hands on extinguisher use, and refresh it every three years. All other staff need basic fire safety awareness training on induction and annually.