Checklist for Fire Extinguisher Training for Employees

 Having fire extinguishers in a building will not improve its safety unless employees are sufficiently trained to use them. Therefore, every employee must undergo fire safety training specifically designed for their building.

An effective training program should cover more than the basics of how to operate a fire extinguisher. It will help trainees to feel more confident in identifying sources of fire within the building. 

Below we have compiled a list that helps you understand what you should know about fire safety training. Let’s have a look:

·         Understanding Key Fire Risks:

The structure and purpose of a building are extremely important in determining its fire risks. The major purpose is to ensure trainees are able to identify key fire risks within the building, which usually include the kitchen area, sources for electrics, or heating. They should also be given the knowledge of what elements work together to ignite and sustain a fire.

Fire risk assessments should also be carried regularly, which will involve an expert carrying out a comprehensive fire safety audit that will identify hazards, the people at risk, and how to act on the findings.

 

• How to Locate Fire Extinguishers:

This will tell the trainees where to look for building extinguishers in the event of an emergency. It is vital because it will help them locate an extinguisher quickly, giving them a better chance of bringing the fire under control. The trainees should also be taught how they can identify whether an extinguisher is sufficiently charged and if there is any damage to prevent it from functioning properly.

 

• How to Operate a Fire Extinguisher:

This step helps to gain knowledge of how to aim and use the extinguisher and when to stop using it. People can have a tendency to panic in an intense situation, so having the confidence to operate the extinguisher correctly is crucial.

 

• Assessing a Fire Situation:

Guidance needs to be provided regarding the decision to either fight or abandon a fire. Assessment of a fire situation consists of looking at the size of the fire, whether it will get out of control quickly, the level of heat inside the building, the existence of any thick smoke or fumes, and whether exits can be reached easily. Training will alert you as to when to attempt to attack the fire and when to call for help from the professionals immediately.