It consists of eight bureaus: Administration, Bureau of Underground Storage Tank Regulation (BUSTR), Code Enforcement, Fire Prevention, Forensic Laboratory, Investigation Bureau, Ohio Fire Academy, and Testing and Registration.
The State Fire Marshal's Office has worked extensively in the areas of Incident Command and Management, Weapons of Mass Destruction training, and personnel protection equipment for all of Ohio's first responders, including fire, EMS, law enforcement, health, and public works.
The SFM also is responsible for modernizing, promulgating and enforcing the Ohio Fire Code; designing and presenting fire prevention programs; analyzing fire-related criminal evidence; investigating the cause and origin of fires and explosions; training firefighters; providing fire safety education to business, industry and the general public; regulating underground storage tanks; testing and training; and licensing and certification support services.
Jeff A. Hussey was appointed State Fire Marshal in July 2017. Prior to this appointment, Hussey served as Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal. As State Fire Marshal, he is responsible for overseeing all operations and bureaus of the Marshal’s office.
Hussey began his career in the fire service in 1983 at the Mifflin Township Fire Department, where he rose through the ranks and eventually became an Assistant Chief. He also has served at the Westerville Fire Department, and taught EMS and firefighting courses at Columbus State Community College for more than a decade.
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The State Fire Council has many important responsibilities. The Council conducts the review and selection process that results in the appointment of the State Fire Marshal by the Director of Commerce. They conduct research, create reports on fire safety, and recommend to the Governor, the General Assembly, the Board of Building Standards, and other state agencies, any needed changes in laws, rules, or administrative policies relating to fire safety. The Council is also in charge of maintaining the Ohio Fire Service Hall of Fame.
The State Fire Council is made up of 10 qualified Ohioans appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. These members represent eight stakeholder groups, including the general public, regulated industries, the fire service and local government. Their mission is to help make Ohio safer from the hazards of fire and assist in reducing the regulatory burden on Ohio’s business community.
The Code Enforcement Bureau has primary responsibility for standards set by the Ohio Fire Code. Inspectors work alongside local officials to conduct fire safety inspections to ensure Ohio’s schools, nursing homes and other facilities meet the high standard set by the Ohio Fire Code to safeguard the lives and property of some of Ohio’s most vulnerable citizens.
The Fire & Explosion Investigation Bureau is a law enforcement agency tasked with investigating the origin and cause of fire, explosions and fireworks incidents in Ohio. Investigators stand ready, 24 hours a day, to assist local fire and police departments in combating the crime of arson and bringing perpetrators to justice.
In 1973, Ohio became the first state in the nation to develop a forensic laboratory specializing in fire and explosive evidence. The Division of State Fire Marshal Forensic Laboratory provides specialized investigative and training services to fire departments and law enforcement agencies across Ohio with professionalism and timely response. The team of scientists and fire specialists at the Forensic Laboratory conduct scientific examinations of ignitable liquids, fire debris, explosives, latent prints and video and audio evidence.
The Bureau of Underground Storage Tank Regulations (BUSTR) regulates the safe operation of underground storage tanks and supervises appropriate investigations and cleanup of suspected and confirmed releases from such tanks to protect human health and preserve the environment for the citizens of Ohio. BUSTR leadership and staff conduct inspections, educate underground storage tank owners and operators, and enforce state laws in compliance with federal regulations and guidelines.
The Fire Prevention Bureau’s primary responsibilities are for providing Ohio’s fire service and citizens with fire and life safety education, maintaining the Ohio Fire Incident Reporting System and promoting Project S.A.F.E. (Smoke Alarms For Everyone).
Phone 614-752-8200 Toll Free 888-252-0803 Email websfm@com.state.oh.us
A fire can happen anywhere. Make sure you’re prepared this Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 7-13) and beyond by checking out these important fire safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association.
The State Fire Marshal’s office and the National Fire Protection Association are teaming up to bring a Safety Summit to Ohio on Friday, Nov. 9. This is the first time the event will take place in Ohio!
The SFM has filed an errata package with the CSI office to correct filing and non-substantive errors in specific rules and to amend paragraphs 320 and 906.1. Click here for more information.
Check out this year’s awardees for the Division of State Fire Marshal and Division of EMS’s Fire Service Hall of Fame & Fire Awards! Click here to view awardees.
Take a look at news and updates from your State Fire Marshal’s office including tips articles, a letter from Marshal Hussey and more. Click here to view the newsletter.
TThe 2019 course catalog is now posted for all that is offered at the Ohio Fire Academy. Click here to view the full catalog.