Fire Safety Policy Template

Fire Safety Policy

Purpose of Fire Safety Policy

This Fire Safety Policy explains [Company Name] approach to preventing fires, protecting people and property, and ensuring safe and orderly evacuation in the event of a fire. The policy sets out responsibilities, required actions, and the standards that apply to all employees, contractors, and visitors at [Company Name] workplaces.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, temporary workers, and visitors at all premises owned, leased, or operated by [Company Name]. It covers fire prevention measures, emergency preparedness, evacuation procedures, training, maintenance of fire safety equipment, and reporting of incidents.

Responsibilities

All individuals on [Company Name] premises must follow this policy and related procedures. Specific responsibilities include:

• Employees: Follow safe work practices, observe no-smoking rules, maintain clear access to exits, and report hazards or fire incidents immediately.
• Managers: Ensure team members receive required fire safety training, conduct local workplace checks, and confirm evacuation procedures are understood.
• Facilities and Safety Team: Maintain fire detection and suppression systems, arrange scheduled inspections, and coordinate fire drills and safety audits.
• Contractors and Visitors: Comply with site safety instructions and evacuation procedures while on [Company Name] premises.

Fire Prevention

To reduce fire risk, [Company Name] requires the following rules and controls:

• Keep combustible materials stored safely and away from ignition sources.
• Use electrical equipment only as intended and report faulty equipment immediately.
• Prohibit unauthorised use of portable heaters, open flames, and similar equipment unless approved and supervised by facilities.
• Designated smoking areas must be used where provided. Smoking is prohibited inside buildings and in undesignated outdoor areas.

Emergency Procedures and Evacuation

[Company Name] maintains clear, documented emergency procedures that include alarm activation, evacuation routes, assembly points, and headcount processes. Key rules are:

• When an alarm sounds, evacuate immediately by the nearest safe exit and proceed to the designated assembly point.
• Do not use lifts during a fire alarm unless instructed by emergency personnel.
• Report to your manager or an assigned emergency warden at the assembly point so attendance can be confirmed.
• Only return to the building when the all clear is given by authorised personnel.

Fire Equipment and Maintenance

[Company Name] will provide and maintain appropriate fire detection and suppression equipment, including alarms, extinguishers, emergency lighting, and signage. The Facilities and Safety Team will ensure:

• Scheduled inspections and servicing of systems and equipment are completed and documented.
• Extinguishers and other emergency equipment remain accessible and unobstructed.
• Deficiencies are addressed promptly and any temporary measures are documented and communicated.

Training and Drills

[Company Name] will provide fire safety training appropriate to roles and risks. Training includes evacuation procedures, use of fire extinguishers when relevant, and reporting obligations. Fire drills will be held at regular intervals to test procedures and improve response readiness.

Reporting and Investigation of Fire Incidents

All fire incidents, alarm activations, near misses, and observed hazards must be reported promptly to the manager and Facilities and Safety Team. Incidents will be investigated to identify root causes and corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Contractors and Visitors

Contractors must provide evidence of appropriate fire safety arrangements before work begins and must follow site safety instructions while on premises. Visitors must be briefed on evacuation procedures and escorted where required.

Personal Responsibilities

Employees must take reasonable care for their own safety and that of others, comply with instructions during an emergency, and participate in required training and drills. Failure to follow this policy may place others at risk and will be addressed under the Non-Compliance provisions below.

Approval Process

Any exceptions to this policy, requests for changes to fire procedures, or proposals for alternative arrangements must be submitted in writing to the Facilities and Safety Team. Requests will be reviewed in consultation with the manager and Human Resources, evaluated for risk, and approved only if adequate controls are in place.

Role of Managers and HR

Managers are responsible for implementing policy requirements within their teams, ensuring training is completed, and escalating safety concerns. Human Resources coordinates policy communication, maintains records of training and approvals, and supports investigations of incidents or breaches. Final approval for policy exceptions is provided by the Facilities and Safety Manager in conjunction with HR.

Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with this Fire Safety Policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment for serious or repeated breaches. Consequences for contractors or visitors may include removal from site or termination of contracts. Non-compliance that creates immediate risk may result in immediate evacuation or suspension of work until risks are addressed.

Note

This policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in operational needs or to improve safety standards. Employees will be informed of significant changes. For any questions or clarification about this Fire Safety Policy, employees should contact their manager or Human Resources.