Fire warden training is required in every workplace. There should always be designated fire wardens to reduce the risk of fire related incidents. No matter how small or big a company is, the health and safety laws will always apply. It’s down to firms to ensure they are promoting a safe working environment for employees.
If you’re interested in fire warden training, or simply want to gain an additional workplace qualification? Find out more about our NPORS training course.
HOW CAN A FIRE START?
Let’s take it back to basics and look at how a fire is generally started and how they can be prevented.
For anyone that isn’t already aware, a fire needs three components to ignite:
- A source of ignition – any electrical equipment, lighters, a naked flame, equipment that could produce sparks
- Oxygen
- A source of fuel such as wood, paper, rubber and plastic etc
DO YOU KNOW WHICH FIRE EXTINGUISHER YOU SHOULD BE USING?
There are 5 main fire extinguisher types, and all companies should ensure they have the correct type available. Otherwise they may not be in line with health and safety regulations. Which fire extinguisher is best to use?
Water
Water fire extinguishers are one of the most common types of extinguishers. Most companies require either a water or foam extinguisher, and it can be identified by the red label on the front.
Used for:
It is mainly used for organic material such as paper, cardboard, fabrics, wood and coal, as well as flammable liquids.
Do not use for:
It is not suitable for kitchen fires, flammable metals, or electrical equipment that has caught fire.
Workplaces that require this type:
This type of extinguisher is mainly seen in offices, schools, hospitals, warehouses, or any building that is constructed using wood.
Foam
A foam fire extinguisher is marked with a cream label, and is water-based.
Used for:
Similarly, the foam extinguisher can be used on the same materials.
Do not use for:
Again, kitchen fires, electrical equipment and flammable metals cannot be put out using a foam extinguisher.
Workplaces that require this type:
Residential properties, buildings storing flammable liquids, and offices must have either a form of water extinguisher available for immediate use.
Dry Powder
A dry powder extinguisher should not be used in confined / small spaces. As the powder can be easily inhaled by anyone close, they can be extremely dangerous. They can be identified by the bright blue label.
Used for:
Similar to the above extinguishers it can eliminate fires on the same materials. Additionally, electrical equipment up to 1000v, flammable gases and liquids can also be extinguished.
Do not use for:
A dry powder extinguisher cannot be used to put out fires involving cooking oil, or for electrical equipment over 1000v.
Workplaces that require this type:
A few types of companies that would require a dry powder extinguisher include:
- Companies using flammable gases as part of their job
- Welding companies
- Garage forecourts
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
The CO2 extinguisher will have a black label on, and will be easily identifiable. It is also primarily used for electrical fire hazards.
Used for:
As mentioned above they are perfect for electrical fires as well as tackling flammable liquids such as paint and petrol.
Do not use for:
A CO2 extinguisher is not ideal for flammable metals, combustible materials or kitchen fires.
Workplaces that require this type:
Typically, anywhere that has electrical equipment should have a CO2 fire extinguisher. For example, offices, construction sites, and server rooms.
Wet Chemical
The wet chemical fire extinguisher is commonly used within the catering sector. If you need to use this type of extinguisher, it will have a yellow label on.
Used for:
They can put out fires that involve cooking oil / fryers, paper and cardboard, fabrics, wood and coal.
Do not use for:
They should not be used for gas fires, electric fires or any flammable metals.
Workplaces that require this type:
Any catering businesses, or schools with kitchens / canteens should ensure they have one of these types of extinguishers to hand. Most importantly, they should be placed near the source of the fire risk for quick access.
If you’re still unsure, our fire warden training course will cover the various types of fire extinguishers available. Above all, we will also provide you with detailed training as to how they can be safely used in the event of a fire.
NPORS N703 FIRE WARDEN COURSE
Our NPORS N703 Fire Warden training course will cover all elements of fire safety awareness including:
- Smoke detectors
- Which fire extinguishers should be used
- Fire drills
- How to use a hose reel
- The standard procedure for fire evacuations
- Safely using a fire extinguisher
For anyone interested in our course, it can be completed in 1 day. In addition to this, it is valid for 3 years before needing to be renewed.
We have limited availability for 2021 dates, however we will be shortly releasing our 2022 dates for fire warden training.
ABOUT THE DIGGERLAND PLANT TRAINING SCHOOL
The Diggerland Plant Training School was first established in 2020, so we completely understand if you haven’t heard of us before. However, we are an upcoming, highly recommended NPORS training course provider for the UK. Our skilled instructors, professional training areas and access to plant equipment, leave operators choosing us as their training provider.
We have 3 UK locations based in Kent, Durham and Yorkshire. All of our training centres are located at the Diggerland parks. Additionally, we can arrange for our instructors to travel to your training area to carry out learning instead.
Contact us today to book your NPORS training
If you would like to book onto our NPORS N703 Fire Warden training course, then be sure to contact us at your earliest convenience. Give us a call on: 01634 295355 or email us for course availability.
We look forward to training up employees, and increasing their fire safety awareness!
