Fire safety plays an important role in managing buildings and workplaces. In Malaysia, certain premises must appoint a Fire Safety Manager (FSM) to ensure proper fire safety management and compliance with regulations.

However, many building owners and facility managers still ask the same question: who must appoint a Fire Safety Manager (FSM)?

This article explains the requirement to appoint an FSM in Malaysia and the types of premises involved.

What is a Fire Safety Manager (FSM)?

A Fire Safety Manager (FSM) is responsible for managing and coordinating fire safety within a building or premise.

Usually, building owners or management appoint an FSM to ensure that fire protection systems, emergency procedures, and fire safety training are properly implemented.

Some of the key responsibilities of an FSM include:

• Maintaining fire protection systems

• Managing the building’s fire safety plan

• Coordinating fire drills

• Supervising the Fire Safety Organization (OKK)

• Ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations

Therefore, the FSM plays an important role in ensuring effective fire safety management.

Requirement to Appoint a Fire Safety Manager in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the requirement to appoint a Fire Safety Manager relates to the Fire Services Act 1988 and guidelines from the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM).

Generally, premises with higher fire risks or large numbers of occupants must appoint an FSM to ensure systematic fire safety management.

Types of Premises That Must Appoint a Fire Safety Manager

Several types of premises commonly require a Fire Safety Manager.

High-Rise Buildings

High-rise buildings such as office towers, condominiums, and commercial complexes usually require structured fire safety management due to the large number of occupants.

Factories and Industrial Premises

Factories, warehouses, and premises storing flammable materials have higher fire risks. Therefore, proper fire safety management is essential.

Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals require strict fire safety management because they involve patients, medical equipment, and continuous operations.

Shopping Malls and Commercial Complexes

Shopping malls and large commercial buildings often receive many visitors. As a result, clear evacuation procedures and fire safety coordination are necessary.

Hotels and Accommodation Premises

Hotels also require proper fire safety management because guests may not be familiar with the building layout.

Training to Become a Fire Safety Manager

Individuals who want to become a Fire Safety Manager (FSM) usually need to attend a recognized FSM training course.

The training typically covers fire safety management, emergency procedures, evacuation planning, and fire safety audits.

If you want to learn the difference between Fire Safety Organization (OKK) and Emergency Response Team (ERT), read this article:

https://fera.com.my/difference-between-okk-and-ert/

If your organization needs to appoint a Fire Safety Manager (FSM) or send staff for FSM training, FERA Training Center offers professional fire safety training programs.

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Proper fire safety management helps protect both lives and property.