08/10/2025
Zero Harm Group Africa (Pty) Ltd
Fire Fighting Training Lesson
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1. Introduction
Fire is one of the most dangerous hazards in any workplace. If not controlled, it can cause loss of life, injuries, damage to property, and disruption of business operations. Firefighting training equips employees with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively during a fire emergency.
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2. Legal Requirement
• The Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993, read with the Emergency Preparedness Regulations, requires employers to:
• Be prepared for fire emergencies.
• Appoint and train fire marshals/firefighters.
• Provide fire-fighting equipment and maintain it regularly.
• Conduct fire drills at the workplace.
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3. Fire Triangle – Understanding How Fires Start
Fire needs three elements (the “Fire Triangle”):
1. Heat – ignition source (open flame, spark, hot surface).
2. Fuel – combustible material (paper, wood, petrol, gas, chemicals).
3. Oxygen – usually from the air.
🔺 Removing any one of these will stop the fire.
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4. Classes of Fire
Understanding fire classes helps in using the correct extinguisher:
• Class A – Ordinary combustibles (wood, paper, cloth, trash).
• Class B – Flammable liquids (petrol, diesel, oils, paints).
• Class C – Flammable gases (LPG, propane).
• Class D – Combustible metals (magnesium, aluminum).
• Class E (Electrical) – Fires involving electrical equipment.
• Class F (Kitchen/Fats) – Cooking oils and fats.
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5. Types of Fire Extinguishers & Use
1. Water (Red) – For Class A fires only.
2. Foam (Cream) – For Class A & B fires.
3. Dry Powder (Blue) – For Class A, B, C, D, E (multi-purpose).
4. CO₂ (Black) – For electrical and flammable liquid fires.
5. Wet Chemical (Yellow) – For Class F (kitchen/fat fires).
Remember: Using the wrong extinguisher can worsen the fire.
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6. Fire Extinguisher Operation (PASS Technique)
• P – Pull the pin.
• A – Aim at the base of the fire.
• S – Squeeze the handle.
• S – Sweep side to side.
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7. Fire Prevention Measures
• Do not overload electrical circuits.
• Store flammable materials safely.
• Maintain housekeeping – remove waste and combustibles.
• Conduct regular fire equipment inspections.
• Ensure “No Smoking” rules in hazardous areas.
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8. Roles of Appointed Firefighters / Fire Marshals
• Raise the alarm when a fire starts.
• Direct evacuation of employees to the assembly point.
• Attempt to extinguish small fires using the correct equipment.
• Ensure fire equipment is inspected and in working order.
• Assist emergency services when they arrive.
• Record incidents and report to management.
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9. Emergency Procedures
• Activate alarm and alert others.
• Evacuate immediately using escape routes.
• Never use lifts during fire evacuation.
• Close doors behind you to contain fire.
• Assemble at the designated safe point.
• Do not re-enter the building until declared safe.
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10. Practical Training & Drills
• Hands-on extinguisher practice (discharging on controlled fire pans).
• Mock fire drills simulating evacuation.
• Role-playing exercises for fire marshals.
• Regular refresher training every 12 months.
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11. Key Safety Messages
• Stay calm in a fire emergency.
• Always put people before property.
• Know your fire exits and assembly points.
• Never fight a fire if it is spreading quickly or out of control – evacuate immediately.
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Conclusion
Firefighting is not only about extinguishing flames – it is about prevention, preparedness, and protection of life. By understanding fire risks, using the correct equipment, and knowing emergency procedures, we can achieve our Zero Harm vision and ensure workplace safety for all.
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📌 Zero Harm Group Africa Message:
“Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility. Be alert, be trained, and be prepared – because Zero Harm is possible.”
