Increased Demand Outstrips Supply for Available Positions
In the heart of the chemical industry, BASF's plant fire brigade stands as a beacon of safety and emergency response readiness. The brigade, with over a century of experience, is constantly seeking new recruits to join its ranks, and according to Jörg Ehresmann, head of training at the brigade, finding these recruits is not a problem.
The application process for the BASF plant fire brigade is thorough and rigorous, involving tests, interviews, and demonstrating one's aptitude for the role. Candidates must also meet specific entry requirements, with many having a technical apprenticeship or degree. However, a career change from IT is also possible, as demonstrated by Teresa Franken, a process engineer at BASF since 2018, who applied to the plant fire brigade to make a career change and become a squad leader.
Once accepted into the programme, trainees embark on a two-year journey of comprehensive training. The first six months focus on the basics, while the following 18 months involve 'watch practice' in a 24-hour shift system. This training is designed to equip trainees with the skills to handle hazardous situations specific to a chemical company, with sealing, including gas lines, being a key part.
The training process adheres to BASF's global safety and Responsible Care Management System standards. Mandatory training programs are offered globally to ensure personnel are prepared to manage safety hazards effectively. These programs aim to continuously develop the personal skills of plant fire brigade members, ensuring quick and effective protection measures at any site.
Moreover, the training and operational standards follow globally valid guidelines for hazard prevention and emergency response. These standards are regularly updated to incorporate the latest knowledge and expertise transferred through BASF's network of experts.
At local BASF sites, such as Ludwigshafen, the plant fire brigade works closely with other emergency teams like medical and environmental monitoring staff. This integrated approach requires coordinated training and operational readiness.
After completing the training, trainees must pass exams before they can start working. Those who succeed often find themselves working at the BASF plant fire brigade or as firefighters at BASF subsidiaries. The pay for the BASF plant fire brigade is based on the chemical industry collective agreement.
As of April, Ehresmann is responsible for 30 trainees, including Matthias Hübner, a new employee at BASF, and Teresa Franken. Hübner joined the training due to his long-standing interest in firefighting and fascination with the technology involved, while Franken aims to become a squad leader through the training, allowing her to leave the office occasionally and lead small operations.
In conclusion, joining the BASF plant fire brigade requires participating in BASF’s structured, globally standardized emergency response training that ensures readiness across safety, hazard prevention, and incident management domains. Practical experience, adherence to BASF’s Responsible Care Management System, and ongoing skill development are critical components of their requirements.
The BASF plant fire brigade offers a career change opportunity, as demonstrated by Teresa Franken, a process engineer at BASF since 2018, who applied to the plant fire brigade to make a career change and become a squad leader. Once accepted into the programme, trainees will undergo a two-year journey of comprehensive training in finance, focusing on sealing, including gas lines, as well as business administration for effective management, specifically following BASF's global safety and Responsible Care Management System standards. Education and self-development are also emphasized for personal skills development and fast response readiness of plant fire brigade members.
