Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Fire Warden Trainer

Fire safety starts with having skilled and qualified fire wardens in the workplace. However, this is only possible if you enrol volunteers in a fire warden training course. That said, a fire warden training course is only as effective as the trainers. If you ignore the trainers taking your staff through a fire warden training course, they might not receive adequate training. Although there are no strict rules and regulations to abide by when choosing fire warden trainers, you have a lot to gain by choosing the best. This article highlights mistakes you should avoid when hiring a fire warden training provider.

Hiring Retired Fire Officers

Retired fire officers and marshals understand a lot about fires. They have been in the game long enough to know what works and what does not. Thus, there is nothing wrong with hiring a recently retired fire marshal to train wardens in your organisation. However, you should stay away from retired fire marshals who have been out of the game for a long time. Retired officers might charge you less for their service; however, your nominated fire wardens might not receive up-to-date training and skills necessary to keep colleagues and assets safe in the modern workplace. Therefore, always ensure that the trainer you hire is still active in the industry so that your wardens can benefit from the current fire prevention trends.

Hiring a General Trainer

Industries have unique challenges when it comes to fire safety. For instance, a facility located in a paint depot experiences different challenges compared to a commercial kitchen. Notably, agents that trigger a fire in both scenarios and the means to put them out are different. Therefore, it is advisable to hire a trainer who has worked with companies in your industry. The specialised experience is valuable because an instructor can tailor a fire warden training course to suit your needs. For example, if you operate in the hospitality industry, get a fire warden trainer who has offered training to hotels and restaurants. They understand the unique challenges that can contribute to fire risks in your workplace. 

Flexible Training

Imagine asking your staff to attend a fire warden training course at the local fire department. The chances are high that they will not be in the right frame of mind to understand the training since they will be tired when they get to the training facility. If this is the only option available, look for a trainer offering fire warden training on-site. It is convenient and provides an opportunity for nominated wardens to train within a real-life work environment. Familiarity with a location promotes a better understanding of a fire warden training program.