AS 3745:2010 (with 2018 amendments) is the key standard for emergency planning in workplaces and facilities. It requires organisations to:

• Establish an Emergency Planning Committee (EPC): Responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining emergency plans.

• Develop and maintain an Emergency Plan: This must include procedures for fire, bomb threats, chemical incidents, medical emergencies, and other foreseeable events.

• Form an Emergency Control Organisation (ECO): Chief Warden, Wardens, and other roles to control and coordinate evacuations.

• Provide training and instruction: Staff must be trained in emergency procedures, including evacuation drills at least once a year.

• Maintain compliance documentation: Emergency plans, evacuation diagrams, drill reports, and training records must be kept current.

• Regular reviews and assessments: The EPC must review the emergency plan annually or after any significant change.

2. Compliance Assessments

A compliance assessment aligned with AS 3745 generally involves:

• Gap Analysis: Checking if the site meets AS 3745 requirements (plans, ECO, EPC, training, diagrams).

• Risk Assessment: Identifying hazards that may impact emergency management (e.g., obstructions, fire equipment condition, signage).

• Documentation Review: Examining existing emergency plans, diagrams, training records, and EPC minutes.

• Practical Testing: Observing evacuation drills and warden responses to confirm competence.

• Corrective Actions: Recommending improvements to achieve compliance.

Deliverables often include:

• A Compliance Report outlining current status.

• A Corrective Action Plan with priorities and timelines.

• Updated or newly developed Emergency Plans and Diagrams if required.

3. Fire Safety Adviser (FSA) Role

Under Queensland Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008, certain buildings (Class 2–9, >30 staff) must appoint an FSA. Their responsibilities include:

• Acting as the appointed compliance officer for fire safety matters.

• Advising on compliance with legislation (AS 3745, AS 1851, BFSM 2008).

• Supporting the EPC and ECO with planning, training, and drills.

• Maintaining records of fire safety activities (drills, diagrams, training).

• Liaising with QFES and other authorities during inspections or incidents.

An FSA typically conducts:

• Site audits and compliance assessments.

• ECO and warden training.

• Fire & evacuation plan reviews.

• Drill supervision and reporting.

4. How BDA Training + Fire Safety Advisors QLD Could Deliver

For your business context, you could offer:

• Annual Compliance Assessments aligned with AS 3745.

• Emergency Plan Development & Review (tailored to the client).

• ECO/Warden Training & Drills (PUAFER005/006 courses).

• FSA Appointment Services on a retainer or contract basis.

• Audit & Reporting Packages for organisations to present to QFES or insurers.