Fire warden (Brandschutzhelfer)
Also: Brandschutzhelfer, fire marshal
Definition
Fire wardens are employees trained in the use of fire extinguishers who fight incipient fires, support evacuation and brief the fire brigade in the event of a fire. Guideline under ASR A2.2: 5 per cent of employees, more where there is an increased fire risk.
Training takes about two to three hours with theory and a practical extinguishing exercise; a refresher is recommended every three to five years (DGUV Information 205-023). As with first aiders, presence counts – shifts, holidays and staff turnover must be taken into account.
Fire wardens should not be confused with the fire safety officer (Brandschutzbeauftragter), who is only required in certain companies and takes on organisational tasks in preventive fire protection.
Legal basis
- Section 10 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act
- ASR A2.2 “Measures against fires”
- DGUV Information 205-023
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Related terms
This glossary entry gives a general overview of German occupational safety law and does not replace legal advice. The regulations in force and the rules of the statutory accident insurance institutions are authoritative.
