The Chief Warden Group consists of key personnel who are responsible for the implementation of the emergency procedures of the site during an emergency. The primary role of the Chief Warden Group is to give top priority to the safety of the occupants and visitors of the site during an emergency. Life safety takes precedence over asset protection.
Terminology
- AS3745-2010: “Chief Warden”
- AS4083-2010: “Emergency Coordinator”
- Qld Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008: “Evacuation Coordinator”
Membership of the Chief Warden Group
The key positions are:
- Chief Warden (must be appointed as a minimum)
- Deputy Chief Warden
- Communications Officer
The positions within the Chief Warden Group are determined by the Emergency Planning Committee (EPC).
Training of the Chief Warden Group
- AS3745-2010 requires that the Chief Warden Group be trained to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to undertake their duties during an emergency.
- AS3745-2010 requires the Chief Warden Group to participate in skills retention activities six-monthly.
- The Queensland Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008 requires the Evacuation Coordinator to receive instruction annually.
Responsibilities of the Chief Warden Group
For a list of responsibilities of the Chief Warden Group, refer to AS3745-2010 section 5.7. AS3745-2010 may be purchased from SAI Global.
Indemnity of the Chief Warden Group
AS3745-2010 Section 5.5 states, “Facility owners, managers, occupiers and employers should obtain professional advice on the level of indemnity provided to ECO members. The ECO members should be advised of the level of indemnity provided”.