Employees and Fire Watch Duties

Fire Watch Duties

Many property managers and business owners wonder if their existing employees can perform fire watch duties. While it might seem like a cost-effective solution, the answer is not straightforward.

The ability of employees to perform fire watch duties depends on several factors, including local regulations, employee qualifications, and the specific risks associated with the site. In this article, we’ll explore the key considerations that determine whether your employees can perform fire watch duties.

Fire watch security is a specialized service that requires specific training and qualifications. While it might be tempting to assign fire watch duties to existing employees to save costs, doing so can pose significant risks if those employees are not properly trained and certified.

Understanding the requirements and limitations can help you make an informed decision about whether to use your employees for fire watch duties.

Local Regulations and Compliance

Local fire codes and regulations often specify the qualifications and training required for individuals performing fire watch duties. In many jurisdictions, fire watch guards must be certified and trained in accordance with NFPA standards. This includes:

• Completion of a recognized fire watch training program
• Familiarity with fire safety principles, detection methods, and response procedures
• Knowledge of specific site risks and hazards
• Ability to use fire suppression equipment and communicate with emergency services

If your employees do not meet these qualifications, assigning them fire watch duties could result in non-compliance and potential fines.

Employee Qualifications and Training

Even if local regulations allow employees to perform fire watch duties, it’s crucial to ensure they have the necessary qualifications and training. Fire watch guards must be able to:

• Conduct continuous patrols at regular intervals
• Identify and respond to potential fire hazards
• Maintain detailed logs of their activities
• Communicate effectively with emergency services

Employees who lack this training may not be able to perform these duties effectively, increasing the risk of fire incidents and legal liabilities.

Site-Specific Risks and Hazards

The specific risks and hazards associated with your site also play a crucial role in determining whether your employees can perform fire watch duties. Sites with high-risk activities, such as hot work operations or construction, may require specialized training and equipment. For example:

• Construction sites with flammable materials and open flames
• Healthcare facilities with vulnerable occupants
• Special events with large crowds and temporary structures

In these cases, it may be more appropriate to hire certified fire watch guards who have the necessary training and experience to handle these specific risks.

Insurance and Liability Considerations

Assigning fire watch duties to employees can also have implications for insurance and liability. If an incident occurs and it is determined that the employee was not properly trained or certified, your insurance provider may deny coverage. This could result in significant financial losses and legal liabilities.

It’s important to consult with your insurance provider to understand the specific requirements and limitations related to fire watch duties.

• Local regulations and compliance requirements
• Employee qualifications and training
• Site-specific risks and hazards
• Insurance and liability considerations

While it may be possible for your employees to perform fire watch duties, it’s crucial to carefully consider the qualifications, training, and specific risks associated with your site. Ensuring compliance with local regulations and maintaining a safe environment should always be the top priority.

In many cases, hiring certified fire watch guards can provide a more reliable and compliant solution, protecting your property and occupants from potential fire incidents.