Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is a portable device that can extinguish a small fire before it becomes a big one. There are different types of fire extinguishers available for different types of fires. It’s essential to understand the different classes of fire and which extinguisher type is needed for each fire type. In New Zealand, fire extinguishers must comply with the AS/NZS 1841 standard.

Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher

Choosing the right fire extinguisher type for the fire you are dealing with is essential. Using the wrong extinguisher can make the fire worse and endanger your life. The first step in choosing the right fire extinguisher is to identify the type of fire. Once you have identified the fire class, you can choose the appropriate fire extinguisher.

Classes of Fire

There are six classes of fire, each with its own characteristics:

• Class A: Fires involving ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and plastics.

• Class B: Fires involving flammable and combustible liquids such as petrol, diesel, and oils.

• Class C: Fires involving flammable gases such as propane and methane.

• Class D: Fires involving combustible metals such as magnesium and sodium.

• Class E: Fires involving electrically energized equipment such as appliances and power tools.

• Class F: Fires involving cooking oils and fats.

Types of Extinguishers

There are different types of fire extinguishers available in New Zealand for different types of fires:

• Water: Suitable for Class A fires.

• Foam: Suitable for Class A and B fires.

• Wet Chemical: Suitable for Class F fires and can also be used on most other classes of fires in the home.

• Dry Powder (ABE): Suitable for Class A, B, C, and E fires. Not suitable for use on Class F fires.

• Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Suitable for Class E fires and can also be used on Class B fires.

• Specialised Materials for Class D fires: These are for specific metals and should be used only in those cases.

Fire Extinguisher Training

Fire extinguisher training is recommended for all individuals, especially those who work in high-risk environments. This type of training provides instruction on recognising various fire types, proper use of a fire extinguisher, and safe evacuation procedures during a fire emergency.

Virtual Reality Fire Extinguisher Training 

Virtual reality fire extinguisher training is a modern approach to teaching individuals how to use fire extinguishers in a simulated environment. This training provides a controlled and safe atmosphere to practice using different types of fire extinguishers and respond to various fire emergencies. By utilising the latest virtual reality technology, participants can gain practical experience in a realistic but secure environment. This innovative training is particularly useful for people who work in high-risk environments where fire safety is essential. The use of virtual reality technology ensures that trainees are better prepared to handle fire emergencies, reducing the risk of injury or damage to property.

What is the function of a Fire Warden?

A Fire Warden plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of everyone in the workplace. A Warden has received adequate and up-to-date Fire Warden training.  They are responsible for implementing and maintaining fire safety procedures, such as conducting regular fire drills and ensuring that all fire exits are easily accessible and unobstructed. In case of an emergency, Fire Wardens take charge of the evacuation process, making sure that everyone is safely evacuated and accounted for. They may also be responsible for using fire extinguishers and other fire-fighting equipment to contain small fires before they escalate. In short, Fire Wardens are essential for preventing and managing fire-related incidents in the workplace.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Fire Warden

So, what does a Fire Warden do? The short answer is that they have an important roles and responsibilities in an emergency situation. A Fire Warden is crucial in ensuring the safety of individuals in a workplace during a fire emergency. They are responsible for identifying and reporting fire hazards, ensuring that fire safety equipment is in place and in good working condition, and creating and implementing emergency evacuation plans. Additionally, Fire Wardens must educate and train employees on fire safety procedures, conduct regular fire drills, and maintain accurate records. 

Pre-emergency Responsibilities

• Conduct regular fire safety inspections of the premises to identify potential fire hazards and ensure that fire safety measures are in place.
• Ensure that fire safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, alarms, and emergency lighting is in good working condition.
• Develop and maintain fire evacuation plans and ensure that they are displayed prominently throughout the premises.
• Conduct regular fire drills to test the effectiveness of the evacuation plans.
• Train staff members in fire safety awareness and evacuation procedures.

During an Emergency

• Take charge of the situation and initiate the evacuation plan.
• Ensure that everyone in the building is aware of the emergency and is evacuating safely.
• Conduct a sweep of the premises to ensure that everyone has left the building and no one is left behind.
• Provide assistance to anyone who may require it during the evacuation.
• Notify the emergency services of the situation.

Post-emergency Responsibilities

• Conduct a debrief with all staff members to review the effectiveness of the evacuation and identify any areas for improvement.
• Conduct an inspection of the premises to identify any damage and ensure that fire safety measures are restored.
• Complete an incident report detailing the emergency and actions taken.

Virtual Reality Fire Warden Training

Virtual Reality technology enables Fire Wardens to participate in realistic fire simulations and practice evacuation procedures within a safe and controlled environment. This training method provides Fire Wardens with an opportunity to gain valuable experience and confidence in responding to actual fire emergencies, while eliminating any risk of harm to themselves or others. Furthermore, Virtual Reality Fire Warden Training can be customised to suit the unique needs and layout of a workplace, delivering a more personalised and efficient training experience.

The Importance of a Fire Warden

By having trained and dedicated Fire Wardens on site, the risk of injury or loss of life during a fire incident is significantly reduced. Their proactive efforts in fire prevention and their decisive actions during emergencies contribute greatly to the overall safety and well-being of employees and visitors within the workplace.