Responsibilities - Fire Brigades

Some employers establish fire brigades. If an employer forms a fire brigade, there must be a written statement which establishes the existence of the brigade and contains specific information, such as:

• The basic organizational structure
• The type, amount, and frequency of training to be provided to fire brigade members
• The expected number of members in the fire brigade
• The functions that the fire brigade uses to perform at work

The statement must be available to the Assistant Secretary and to employees.

An employer is responsible for making sure fire brigade members are physically capable of performing the duties which could be assigned to them during emergencies.

Employers must provide training to fire brigade members at least annually. Quarterly training is required for brigade members who may engage in interior structural firefighting.

Employers are responsible for educating brigade members about special hazards, such as:

• Storage and use of flammable liquids and gasses
• Toxic chemicals
• Radioactive substances
• Water reactive substances

As part of training and education for fire brigades, employers should create a written plan to describe the actions necessary in situations involving special hazards.

An employer is responsible for inspecting, at least annually, the firefighting equipment. Portable fire extinguishers and respirators must be inspected and maintained monthly. Damaged equipment must be removed and replaced.

To learn more about Fire Extinguishers visit our Portable Fire Extinguishers Online Training web page.