Fire Extinguishers in Construction Environments

This course provides essential training on the use of fire extinguishers in construction environments. It covers the basic science of how fires start and burn, the different classifications of fires you may encounter on a job site, and the various types of extinguishers designed to fight them. The program focuses on how to safely and effectively respond to a small fire, including understanding the risks and knowing when not to fight a blaze.

Course Highlights

• The three elements of the “fire triangle”: fuel, heat, and an oxidizer.
• The five classes of fire (A, B, C, D, and K) and the types of materials involved in each.
• An overview of common extinguisher types, including multi-purpose ABC, BC (dry chemical), carbon dioxide (CO2), water, and foam.
• How to select the correct extinguisher and the serious dangers of using the wrong one.
• The P.A.S.S. method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) for properly operating an extinguisher.
• Key safety steps to take before attempting to fight a fire, including ensuring an escape route.
• OSHA requirements for extinguisher placement, mounting height, and regular inspections.

By the end of this course, you will have learned to:

• Identify the components needed for a fire to burn.
• Differentiate between the various classes of fire.
• Select the appropriate type of fire extinguisher for a specific fire hazard.
• Confidently apply the four-step P.A.S.S. technique to operate an extinguisher.
• Recognize when a fire is too large or dangerous to fight and it’s time to evacuate.
• Perform a basic visual inspection to ensure an extinguisher is charged and ready for use.