Become a Certified Evacuation Marshal and Safeguard Your Workplace
The Evacuation Marshal skills programme (SP-250817) equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills to lead emergency evacuations, manage fire safety procedures and ensure workplace compliance with South African health and safety legislation. Aligned to SAQA Unit Standard 259597, this programme prepares you to take on a critical role in any organisation’s emergency preparedness plan.
As an Evacuation Marshal, you will be responsible for guiding occupants to safety during emergencies, coordinating with emergency services, and ensuring that evacuation plans are executed efficiently. This training covers both the theoretical foundations of fire science and emergency management, and the hands-on practical skills needed to respond confidently when it matters most.
South African legislation, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993), requires employers to appoint trained personnel to manage emergency evacuations. This programme ensures that your organisation meets these legal obligations while building a culture of safety.
What You’ll Learn
- Roles, responsibilities and legal requirements of an Evacuation Marshal under South African OHS legislation
- Fire science fundamentals – the fire triangle, fire behaviour, causes of workplace fires and prevention strategies
- Fire detection and alarm systems, emergency lighting, and exit signage requirements
- Correct use of fire-fighting equipment including extinguisher types, the PASS technique, fire blankets and hose reels
- Evacuation planning – developing emergency plans, identifying escape routes, establishing assembly areas and conducting headcounts
- Special evacuation considerations – assisting persons with disabilities, hazardous materials incidents, confined spaces and multi-storey buildings
- Emergency communication, incident reporting and post-incident review procedures
- Practical scenario-based training including simulated evacuations, role-playing and case studies
Entry Requirements
- Communication skills at NQF Level 1 or equivalent
- No prior fire safety or emergency management experience required
- Must be physically able to participate in practical evacuation exercises
Course Details
- Duration: 3 days (novice) / 1 day (re-certification)
- Credits: 3
- NQF Level: 2
- Unit Standard: SAQA 259597 – Explain emergency preparedness and response procedures
- SETA Alignment: Construction Education Training Authority (CETA)
- Assessment: Formative (theoretical) and summative (theoretical and practical) assessments to determine competency
- Maximum Class Size: 10 learners
Who Should Enroll?
- Designated Evacuation Marshals: Employees appointed to lead evacuations and manage emergency procedures in their buildings or zones.
- Health and Safety Officers: Professionals responsible for workplace safety compliance who need to understand and oversee evacuation protocols.
- Facility and Building Managers: Those tasked with maintaining emergency plans, signage and equipment across commercial or industrial premises.
- Team Leaders and Supervisors: Staff in leadership roles who must guide their teams safely during an emergency evacuation.
- HR and Compliance Managers: Professionals ensuring their organisation meets the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.