Plant fire departments are state-recognized fire departments of companies or other institutions; they are responsible for fire protection, technical assistance and the provision of security guards.
The government can recognize the fire department of a company or institution as a plant fire department upon application by the owner or sponsor.
In independent municipalities with a professional fire department, recognition as a plant fire department is not the responsibility of the government, but of the district administrative authority.
The government can oblige owners of companies and operators of facilities that are particularly at risk of fire or explosion, or which endanger many people in the event of damage, to set up, equip and maintain a site fire department. The efficiency of the municipal fire departments shall be taken into account.
The recognition, its withdrawal or revocation, or the obligation shall be made in consultation with the municipal or district fire commissioner and the authorities responsible for approving the company or the company buildings. The latter applies in particular to companies that are subject to trade supervision.
A joint plant fire department for several plants or facilities can be recognized if the defensive fire protection, the technical assistance service and the provision of security guards is ensured for each individual plant and facility. The responsibility for the proper performance of tasks remains with the individual company and facility.
The recognition authority or its authorized representatives may check the performance of a plant fire department at any time; their representatives may enter the plant or facility unannounced.
In companies subject to mining supervision, recognition and inspection are the responsibility of the mining authority.
If you select a location under "Localization" the contact details of the responsible authority and, if applicable, locally valid information will be displayed.