Fire Warden Duties and Responsibilities

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-FIR-014  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

Why?

Save livesFire wardens ensure all areas are checked during evacuation — people left behind in fires suffer fatal outcomes.
Legal dutyThe Fire Safety Order 2005 requires competent persons to assist with fire safety measures including evacuation.
Early warningWardens identify and report fire hazards during normal working before they develop into incidents.
Do Don't
  • Accept the fire warden role only after receiving proper training
  • Know your designated area, escape routes, and the location of all fire points
  • Check escape routes and fire exits are clear and unlocked at the start of each shift
  • Sweep your area methodically during an alarm to confirm all persons have left
  • Report to the assembly point and confirm your area status to the site manager
  • Monitor your area for fire hazards such as blocked exits and stored flammables
  • Know the location and correct use of each fire extinguisher type in your zone
  • Assist anyone with mobility difficulties to evacuate safely during an alarm
  • Attend regular fire warden refresher training and participate in fire drills
  • Record any fire safety issues found during your routine checks
  • DON'T attempt to fight a fire that is beyond the initial stage or your training
  • DON'T re-enter a building during an evacuation without authorisation from the fire service
  • DON'T allow escape routes or fire exits to become blocked or locked shut
  • DON'T ignore fire alarm activations assuming they are false — always respond fully
  • DON'T leave your designated area uncovered without informing the site manager
  • DON'T forget to account for visitors and temporary workers in your area
  • DON'T delay raising the alarm if you discover a fire — every second counts
  • DON'T use lifts during a fire evacuation — use stairways and designated routes
  • DON'T store flammable materials in escape routes or near fire exits
  • DON'T assume someone else will check your area — that is your responsibility

See also: Fire Safety Awareness on Site | Fire Evacuation Procedures