Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Technical and Operational

• Undertake and maintain fire risk assessments, fire plans, and evacuation strategies across all GMS-managed premises in line with statutory and healthcare guidance.

• Monitor and advise on compliance with fire safety legislation and standards, including relevant Health Technical Memoranda (HTMs), supporting corrective action where required.

• Maintain accurate fire safety records and contribute to assurance reporting, including risk management processes, trend analysis, and preventative planning.

• Investigate fire-related incidents, near misses, and false alarms, producing reports and recommending proportionate corrective measures.

• Co-ordinate routine fire safety activities, including alarm systems, emergency lighting, drills, audits, and oversight of fire safety equipment to ensure appropriate provision, positioning, and maintenance.

• Provide specialist advice for maintenance, refurbishment, and capital projects, assessing fire safety implications or infrastructure or system changes.

• Liaise with Fire and Rescue Services, Building Control, insurers, and other authorities regarding inspections, compliance, and improvement actions.

• Support the development and review of fire safety policies and procedures, exercising professional judgement to advise on risks and escalating significant risks through appropriate governance routes.
Act as a competent person for fire safety matters in accordance with statutory requirements.

Professional Development

• Maintain up-to-date specialist knowledge of fire safety legislation, healthcare guidance, and emerging best practice.

• Undertake mandatory and role-specific training, ensuring professional qualifications and registrations remain current.

• Participate in continuing professional development (CPD) and relevant professional networks.

• Promote fire safety awareness across GMS and share good practice within the Estates and Facilities function.

Supervision and Coordination

• Deliver fire safety training, including induction, refresher courses, fire warden training, and evacuation procedures.

• Support, advise, and Fire Wardens and departmental representatives on fire safety responsibilities.

• Plan, co-ordinate, and evaluate fire drills and evacuation exercises, recommending improvements where required.

• Conduct inspections and compliance checks, supporting departments to implement corrective actions arising from audits or fire risk assessments.

• Oversee fire-fighting equipment, signage, and notices, ensuring correct location, maintenance, and suitability,

• Work collaboratively with Estates, Capital Projects, Health & Safety, and Operational teams to coordinate fire safety activity.

• Monitor contractors on live sites to ensure fire precautions are maintained, taking action where deficiencies are identified.