Fire Watch vs Fire Marshal
Contents
Fire Watch vs Fire Marshal: Roles Compared
One writes the rules, the other writes the logs. Mix them up and you will try to hand the inspector a fire extinguisher while the guard asks for a citation. Here is the quick fire watch vs fire marshal rundown so you know who does what and when.
Who Is the Fire Marshal?
A city employee with police powers. He can issue citations, shut down buildings, and arrest violators. He carries a badge, not a flashlight, and he expects you to already have a certified fire watch guard on site when he arrives.
His job is enforcement, not protection. He will not patrol your halls or carry an extinguisher; he will inspect your logs and leave with either a smile or a fine.
Who Is the Fire Watch Guard?
A licensed private professional who patrols impaired areas, logs conditions, and calls 911 at the first sign of fire. He works for you, not the city, and his paperwork is what the marshal reviews.
He cannot write tickets or close buildings, but his digital log can keep the marshal from writing you up.
Interaction Script
- Guard greets marshal by rank and offers printed log
- Marshal checks intervals, signatures, and certs
- Guard answers questions about patrol route only
- Building manager steps in for policy questions
- Marshal signs off or issues citation
Overlap Confusion
Some folks think the marshal will stand around for hours. Nope. His visit averages 12 minutes. If your guard is professional and the log is perfect, the marshal leaves and the guard keeps patrolling.
And never ask the marshal to approve your patrol interval; he will quote the code and tell you to read it yourself.
Cost Reality
Fire marshal inspections are free. Failed inspections are not. One citation can top $20 k. A certified fire watch guard shift costs $400 to $700. Hire the guard, impress the marshal, and keep the building open.
Need a certified fire watch guard who knows how to talk to the marshal? Call us and we will brief the guard on your site before the inspector even parks.
And remember, the marshal enforces, the guard serves. Let each do his job and you will never confuse them again.
