A Comprehensive Guide to Fire Safety Advisors for Queensland Businesses

Navigating the complexities of fire safety in Queensland can be a daunting task for any business, especially if recent growth or changes have evolved your compliance responsibilities and regulations. With such critical safety implications on the line, understanding who and what you need to maintain robust fire safety standards is paramount.

Is my Queensland business legally required to have a fire safety advisor (FSA)?

If your business has 30 or more employees, then yes!

Not only this, but according to the Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008, if your building falls under any of the following categories, you are required to appoint a Fire Safety Advisor. These classes are determined by the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and relate to the building's use, size, and occupancy levels. A high occupancy building means any of the following buildings, other than to which section 32 applies -

(a)a class 2 or 3 building more than 25m high;

(b)a class 2, 3, 5, 6, 7b, 8, 9a, or 9b building that is a workplace—

(i)in the following industries—

(A)building and construction;

(B)community services;

(C)electricity, gas and water;

(D)financial, property and business services;

(E)manufacturing;

(F)public administration;

(G)recreational services, personal services and other services;

(H)retail and wholesale trade;

(I)transport and storage; and

(ii)30 or more workers are normally employed at the workplace during the current year, or are likely to be employed at the workplace for a total of any 40 days during the year;

(c)a class 6 or 9b building that the commissioner has decided is an at risk licensed building under section 104KD of the Fire Service Act.

Why is having an FSA important?

Beyond just the legislation, it really is important to appoint a Fire Safety Advisor with up-to-date training for the safety and well-being of every person in your workplace. It's a critical step in safeguarding your employees, customers, and assets from the risk of fire and other workplace emergencies. By identifying potential hazards, implementing preventive measures, and ensuring a robust evacuation plan is in place and understood by all, FSAs play a direct role in safeguarding lives. In the event of a fire, hazardous material emergency or other workplace emergencies, a well-prepared team can make all the difference in preventing harm and ensuring everyone's safety.

The Role of a Fire Safety Advisor

An FSA's role is multifaceted, extending beyond mere compliance. They are pivotal in identifying, preventing, and managing Fire and Emergency safety risks. Their duties include but are not limited to:

Developing and Reviewing Fire and Evacuation Plans

FSAs create and continually update bespoke fire and evacuation plans, adapting to the unique layout and needs of each building. These dynamic plans ensure escape routes are clear and accessible for all, including those with disabilities. Regular revisions keep them current with any changes in the building's use, structure, or relevant laws, maintaining compliance and effectiveness.

Coordinating Evacuation Drills and Training

FSAs organise evacuation drills, turning plans into practical experience for staff. These drills cover the use of escape routes, assembly point locations, and the sound of fire alarms, building confidence and reducing panic in emergencies. Frequent, varied practice ensures staff are well-prepared for any situation, be it Fire Evacuation, Lockdown or Bomb Threat Evacuation.

Site Audits

It’s essential that your fire safety equipment is properly installed, inspected and tested. FSA’s can ensure they are correctly maintained through site audits.

Liaising with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES)

FSA’s liaise with QFES to ensure fire safety measures meet the latest standards and regulations. They participate in inspections and follow-ups, promoting a collaborative safety effort. This partnership is vital for a quick and efficient response in the event of a fire, aiding in the preservation of life and property.

Does the Fire Safety Advisor have to be a member of staff?

There's no mandatory requirement for a Fire Safety Advisor to be an in-house staff member. You can appoint either a staff member, or an external consultant to be your Fire Safety Advisor.

Whether internal or external, the key is ensuring the FSA is fully qualified and capable of fulfilling its responsibilities effectively.

What are the requirements to become appointed as a Fire Safety Advisor

To be appointed as a Fire Safety Advisor (FSA) in Queensland, the Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008 sets forth specific criteria to ensure FSAs are adequately prepared for their role. The essential requirements include:

Qualifications:
FSAs must hold a recent (issued within the last three years) approved building fire safety qualification, covering eight units of competency in Workplace Emergency Response as per the Australian Qualifications Framework.

Up-to-Date Training:
The qualification needs to be current, reflecting the latest fire safety standards and practices to ensure FSAs' knowledge and skills are relevant.

Knowledge and Skills:
FSAs should have a deep understanding of fire safety regulations, including the Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008 and relevant Australian Standards, coupled with practical skills in developing safety plans, conducting drills, and maintaining safety equipment.

Re-certification:
To maintain their role, FSAs are required to update their training every three years, aligning with new fire safety developments and regulations.

These criteria ensure that FSAs possess the necessary knowledge and practical skills to effectively manage fire safety and compliance within workplaces.

What are the advantages of appointing an external fire safety advisor?

Appointing an external Fire Safety Advisor (FSA) offers significant advantages:

Expertise and Specialisation:
External FSAs bring a wealth of specialised knowledge and experience from various settings, ensuring your fire safety strategies are informed by the latest best practices.

Objective Risk Assessment:
An external advisor can objectively identify risks and compliance issues, providing a fresh perspective that might be missed internally.

Flexibility and Efficiency:
Tailoring services to specific needs without the overheads of full-time staff, external FSAs offer a scalable solution that adjusts to your business's changing requirements.

Cost-Effective Compliance:
Life International Training enables businesses to meet legislative demands efficiently, avoiding the significant costs associated with training and maintaining an in-house FSA.

Comprehensive Service Offering:
Beyond fire safety, Life International Training FSAs have expertise in Work, Health and Safety compliance, offering a holistic approach to your safety audits.

Ongoing Support and Advice:
Continuous support and advice on legislative and operational changes keep your business ahead of compliance and safety curves.

Secure Record Management:
Professional off-site records management ensures your documentation is maintained in line with regulatory standards.

Avoids constant FSA turnover:
If the FSA is internal and leaves the business, the business loses the FSA having to retrain additional people will incur further costs.

Life International Training distinguishes itself by providing a comprehensive partnership that extends beyond mere compliance. Our FSAs are not only experienced and qualified but also carry Professional Indemnity and Public Liability insurance, offering peace of mind. Services include detailed site Fire Safety Audits, chairing or participating in Annual Emergency Planning Committee Meetings, and conducting annual reviews of your Emergency Response Management Plan.

Importantly, Life International Training acknowledges the uniqueness of each business. Their approach is to deliver customised advice and training, ensuring fire safety strategies align with your specific operational needs and industry benchmarks. Opting for Life International Training as your external fire safety advisor means choosing a safer, more secure future for your organisation, its employees, and its customers.

If you’d like to learn more about appointing the right FSA for your business, you can download any of our fact sheets below or get in touch with the team today.

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