Fire safety officer

We are seeking a knowledgeable and proactive Fire Safety Officer to provide professional fire safety expertise across a diverse and complex healthcare estate.

This is a pivotal role acting as a designated competent person for fire safety under relevant legislation. You will ensure statutory compliance, uphold healthcare fire safety guidance, and safeguard patients, staff, visitors, contractors, and building users.

Working within the Fire Safety Team, you will balance fire safety requirements with the operational needs of busy clinical services—ensuring safe, compliant, and resilient environments.

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Key Responsibilities

Technical & Operational

• Undertake and maintain fire risk assessments, fire plans, and evacuation strategies across all GMS-managed premises

• Monitor compliance with fire safety legislation and healthcare guidance (including relevant HTMs)

• Maintain accurate fire safety records and contribute to governance and assurance reporting

• Investigate fire incidents, near misses, and false alarms, producing detailed reports and proportionate recommendations

• Coordinate routine fire safety activities (alarms, emergency lighting, drills, audits, fire-fighting equipment oversight)

• Provide specialist advice for refurbishment and capital projects, assessing fire safety implications

• Liaise with Fire & Rescue Services, Building Control, insurers, and regulatory bodies

• Support policy development and escalate significant risks through governance routes

• Act as a competent person for fire safety matters

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Professional Development

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of fire safety legislation and healthcare guidance

• Participate in CPD and professional networks

• Maintain relevant qualifications and registrations

• Promote fire safety awareness across Estates and Facilities

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Supervision & Coordination

• Deliver fire safety training (induction, refresher, Fire Warden training, evacuation procedures)

• Support and advise departmental representatives and Fire Wardens

• Plan and evaluate fire drills and evacuation exercises

• Conduct inspections and compliance checks

• Monitor contractors to ensure appropriate fire precautions on live sites

• Work collaboratively with Estates, Capital Projects, Health & Safety, and Operational teams

About You

We’re looking for a confident, methodical, and collaborative fire safety professional who can influence, advise, and challenge when necessary.

Essential Qualifications & Training

• Relevant HNC/HND/Degree or equivalent qualification

• Registration with a recognised fire safety or fire engineering professional body

• NEBOSH or IOSH Occupational Health & Safety qualification

• Evidence of Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Desirable

• Training or teaching qualification

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Essential Knowledge & Experience

• Strong knowledge of fire safety legislation and its application in complex environments

• Experience conducting fire risk assessments and audits

• Experience delivering staff training

• Strong IT skills (Microsoft Office and compliance systems)

• Experience in large or complex organisations

Desirable

• Knowledge of healthcare fire safety guidance (HTM 05 series or equivalent)

• Experience in healthcare or high-risk occupied environments

• Awareness of equality, diversity, and inclusion principles

This role is temporary for 2 months initially but could lead to a permanent role.