As UK businesses face growing demands for flexible working and tighter budgets, Online Fire Marshal Training has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional classroom sessions. But is it truly effective? Can it keep your business compliant? And is it the most cost-efficient way to train your team? In this blog, we explore whether online training is the smart choice for your workplace fire safety needs.
Why Fire Marshal Training Matters
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, every UK business must ensure that trained fire marshals are in place to manage fire risks and support safe evacuations. These appointed individuals are responsible for:
- Conducting regular fire safety checks
- Leading evacuations during emergencies
- Acting as a point of contact for fire services
- Extinguishing small fires under controlled circumstances if it is safe to do so
Employers have a legal obligation to provide suitable training—so choosing the right method matters. Ensuring your team is confident and capable in their fire marshal roles is not just about ticking a compliance box; it’s about protecting lives, property, and operations.
What Does Online Fire Marshal Training Include?
Online Fire Marshal Training is typically delivered through interactive modules, combining videos, quizzes, and downloadable content. Courses usually cover:
- UK fire safety legislation
- Common causes of workplace fires
- The role and responsibilities of a fire marshal
- Evacuation procedures and fire drills
- Using fire extinguishers (theory-based)
While most online courses focus on theory, many providers also offer supplementary on-site practical sessions where needed. This hybrid model allows you to tailor training to your team’s unique needs while staying compliant with UK fire safety law.
Benefits of Online Fire Marshal Training
Convenience
- Available 24/7, allowing learners to complete training at their own pace.
- Ideal for remote workers or businesses with irregular shifts.
Compliance
- Meets the requirements set out by UK fire safety laws when delivered by accredited providers.
- Certificates of completion are usually provided for audit and compliance purposes.
Cost-Effectiveness
- No need for travel, venue hire, or instructor fees.
- Economical for small teams and scalable for large organisations.
Flexibility for Businesses
- Easy to schedule around day-to-day operations.
- Can be accessed from anywhere—perfect for hybrid or remote workforces.
Online training also allows organisations to track progress and completion through digital dashboards, making record-keeping for audits more efficient than ever.
Is Online Fire Marshal Training Right for Every Business?
While Online Fire Marshal Training offers several advantages, it’s important to consider your workplace environment and fire risks. It may not be ideal in these scenarios:
- High-risk settings such as manufacturing, laboratories, or warehouses may require hands-on extinguisher training.
- New premises or large buildings may benefit from on-site walkthroughs and evacuation drills.
- Teams unfamiliar with fire safety roles may need extra support or a blended learning approach.
If your business needs a tailored approach, a combination of online theory and in-person practical sessions could be the most effective solution to ensure thorough training.
Online Fire Marshal Training offers a practical, cost-effective way for businesses to meet their fire safety obligations without disrupting daily operations. It’s compliant, flexible, and accessible—making it especially suitable for modern workplaces and remote teams.
For higher-risk environments or complex premises, consider supplementing online training with an on-site practical session to ensure full preparedness. Investing in robust fire safety training is not just a legal necessity—it’s a vital component of your organisation’s overall safety culture.
Ready to train your team?
Visit Benfield Fire’s training page to book your online fire marshal course today.
Phone: 0300 303 3277
Email: customerservice@benfieldfs.co.uk
FAQs
Q1: Is online fire marshal training legally accepted in the UK?
A1: Yes, as long as it’s delivered by a competent provider and covers the necessary fire safety topics. It satisfies legal requirements under the Fire Safety Order 2005.
Q2: How long does online fire marshal training take?
A2: Most online courses can be completed in 1–2 hours, depending on the depth of content and user pace.
Q3: Do I need refresher training?
A3: It is recommended that you take refresher training at regular intervals, and in line with the terms of your provider’s certificated decay period.
