Legal Requirement
The Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 and its supporting Environmental Regulations for Workplaces (GNR 2281 of 1987) impose a direct obligation on employers to prevent, detect, and combat workplace fires. Designated employees must be trained in firefighting and fire safety procedures.
In the agricultural and forestry sectors, the National Veld and Forest Fire Act 101 of 1998 further requires that landowners in declared fire danger areas maintain firefighting capacity, participate in registered Fire Protection Associations (FPAs), and ensure personnel are trained in suppression techniques.
Under SANS 10400 Part T, commercial and industrial buildings must designate trained fire wardens for each floor or zone, with documented evacuation procedures. Non-compliance affects occupancy certificates and can invalidate insurance claims.
Applicable Legislation
Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 (OHS Act) — Environmental Regulations for Workplaces, Regulation 9
Regulation 9 of the Environmental Regulations for Workplaces (GNR 2281 of 1987) requires that every employer take steps to prevent, detect, and combat fire in the workplace. This includes ensuring suitable fire-fighting equipment is available and that designated employees are trained in its use.
National Veld and Forest Fire Act 101 of 1998
Establishes the legal framework for veld and forest fire management in South Africa. Sections 12 and 13 impose obligations on landowners and occupiers in fire danger areas to take reasonable steps to prevent fires, including participation in Fire Protection Associations (FPAs) and ensuring personnel are trained.
SANS 10400-T: Facilities for Persons with Disabilities + Fire Protection
The National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act 103 of 1977, through SANS 10400 Part T, prescribes fire detection, suppression, and evacuation requirements for occupied buildings. Trained fire wardens are required in most commercial and industrial occupancies.
Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002
Requires organs of state and private sector bodies to take reasonable measures to prevent or reduce the risk of disasters, including fire. Trained fire response personnel are part of a compliant disaster risk reduction plan.
National Forests Act 84 of 1998
Governs the management and protection of national forests. Under section 7, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) may issue directives requiring forestry operators to maintain firefighting capacity and trained suppression teams.
Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act 130 of 1993 (COIDA)
Fire-related injuries are among the most common occupational injury categories in manufacturing, forestry, and construction. Demonstrating active fire training is a mitigating factor in COIDA claims and departmental inspections.
Available Programmes
All programmes are SETA-accredited or nationally aligned. Certificates are NQF-registered and accepted by Department of Labour inspectors.
Fire Awareness
Introduction to fire hazards, types of fire, basic extinguisher use, and evacuation procedures. Suitable for all staff.
Fire Warden and Marshal Training
Covers fire risk identification, evacuation coordination, fire safety inspections, and emergency reporting. Required for designated fire wardens.
Basic Fire Fighting
Practical training in the use of portable fire extinguishers, hose reels, and fire blankets. SAQA unit standard aligned.
Intermediate Fire Fighting
Structured fire suppression techniques, teamwork in fire operations, and use of breathing apparatus. For industrial environments.
Wildfire Suppression (Veld and Forest)
Covers hand tool operation, bush fire behaviour, firebreak construction, and aerial support coordination. Aligned to Working on Fire standards.
Fire Safety Officer
Advanced programme for persons responsible for workplace fire safety management, compliance documentation, and fire risk assessment.