Firefighter

What does a fire guard do? – Tasks and work environment

A fire guard's main task is to monitor workplaces and environments where there is an increased fire risk, such as during hot work or ongoing construction and maintenance projects. Daily tasks include checking that fire protection equipment is in place, preventing risky behaviors, and quickly intervening if danger is suspected. The fire guard works closely with other professionals like construction workers, electricians, and safety personnel, often in environments with high safety standards. The work environment can vary from industrial facilities and construction sites to public institutions and temporary events, requiring vigilance and stress resistance.

Wage development over time

The salary for a fire guard has seen steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,700 SEK per month, which increased to 32 400 SEK in 2023 and further to 34 500 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 12.4% during this period. This positive trend reflects an increased demand for safety expertise, especially as the construction and industrial sectors invest more in fire protection and work environment safety. Wage increases can also be linked to stricter legal requirements and a greater focus on preventive safety measures. Despite the overall rise, differences between genders and depending on education level and sector are still observed.

Fire guard salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (male, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,100 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 207 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Women's salary: 32 900 SEK/month (93% of men's salary)
• Men's salary: 35 400 SEK/month
• Highest women's salary: 41,700 SEK/month
• Lowest women's salary: 30,600 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

No extensive formal education is required to work as a fire guard, but employers often seek courses in hot work and experience from the safety industry. Basic knowledge of fire protection, risk assessment, and work environment safety is necessary, as well as the ability to act quickly and responsibly. Practical experience, especially from construction or industrial environments, is often advantageous, and some employers offer internal training or internships.

• Course in hot work: 1–2 days, certification required
• Basic fire safety training: Often a requirement from employers
• Internship or experience: Meritorious from construction, industry, or safety
• No formal degree required: But secondary education is standard
• Ongoing training: Can be offered internally or via industry organizations

Common benefits and compensations

Fire guards are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for inconvenient working hours, wellness allowances, and sometimes access to staff facilities or free work clothes. Pension schemes and insurance are often included via collective agreements, and some employers also offer training support and opportunities for further education in fire safety and security.

Competition and challenges

The job market for fire guards is characterized by competition for the most attractive positions, especially in larger cities and public projects. A challenge is that the tasks often involve irregular working hours and physically demanding environments. Demand is influenced by the construction and industrial cycle, as well as changes in fire safety regulations. Additional challenges include the need for continuous training and staying updated on new safety routines. Despite this, there are good opportunities for those who are flexible and committed to their profession.

Tips for those who want to become a fire guard

To succeed as a fire guard, it is good to combine thoroughness with initiative and social skills. Completing a hot work course early increases chances of employment, and practical experience from construction or industrial environments is often a big advantage. Being stress-resistant and able to make quick decisions under pressure, while maintaining good teamwork skills, facilitates communication with colleagues and other professionals. Engagement in work environment issues and the willingness to further educate oneself in fire safety can lead to more career opportunities. Asking questions and showing responsibility is appreciated by employers, and working methodically reduces the risk of mistakes. Ultimately, it is crucial to maintain a strong safety mindset in everything you do to create a safe workplace for everyone.

Key facts about Fire Guard

• Education level: Secondary education and course in hot work
• Work environment: Construction sites, industry, and public environments
• Demand: 191 job openings in Sweden (2024)
• Common employment type: Shift work and hourly employment are common
• Special skills: Fire protection and risk assessment

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a fire guard, opportunities exist to advance to leadership roles within work environment and safety, such as site supervisor, safety coordinator, or fire safety manager. Some choose to further their education in rescue services or fire protection technology to broaden their career options. The Swedish Public Employment Service estimates that demand for fire guards and security personnel will remain stable in the future, especially with increased construction and higher safety requirements. Regional differences occur, but metropolitan areas and expanding industrial zones offer the most positions and higher wages. Ongoing developments in technology and digital fire protection also open new areas within the profession.

Common questions about Fire Guard

• What does a Fire Guard earn?
  - The average salary for a fire guard is 34 500 SEK per month, but wages vary depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Is training required to become a fire guard?
  - A course in hot work and basic fire safety training is often required, but longer formal education is rarely necessary.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do in the profession.
• In what work environments do fire guards work?
  - Fire guards mainly work on construction sites, in industrial facilities, and sometimes at public events or institutions.
• What does the future look like for fire guards?
  - Demand is stable and there are good development opportunities, especially for those who are flexible and willing to further train.
• What is the highest salary for a fire guard?
  - The highest reported salary is 47,100 SEK per month for a man with post-secondary education and public employment.