What is the role of a fire guard?

The role of a fire guard is fundamentally centered around performing fire safety duties. This includes monitoring activities that pose fire risks, such as welding or torch cutting, ensuring that safety protocols are adhered to, and that all fire hazards are properly mitigated. A fire guard is responsible for maintaining a watchful presence in areas where these fire risks are present and taking action to prevent fires from occurring. This might involve having fire extinguishing equipment readily available, conducting regular checks of the area for flammable materials, and being vigilant for any signs of fire.

While safety training and operating machinery may be part of a broader context of safety and fire prevention, they do not encompass the specific responsibilities of a fire guard. Additionally, issuing building permits is the responsibility of regulatory authorities, not fire guards. Thus, the focus on performing fire safety duties aligns directly with the core responsibilities expected from someone designated as a fire guard in torch operations.