Using Fire Extinguishers in Industrial Environments

Industrial facilities face unique fire risks due to the presence of flammable liquids, electrical equipment, hot machinery, and large amounts of stored materials. Even a small fire can grow quickly, creating dangers for workers and causing major damage in only seconds.

In this Using Fire Extinguishers in Industrial Environments course, you’ll learn how fires start, how to match extinguishers to fire classes, and how to use extinguishers safely with the PASS method. You’ll also learn key steps to take before fighting a fire and how to maintain extinguishers so they’re ready when needed.

This course explains the three elements every fire needs—fuel, heat, and an oxidizer—and how removing one of them can stop a fire. You will explore the major fire classes, what types of materials they involve, and which extinguishers are designed for each situation. The course also covers different extinguisher types, including dry chemical, CO₂, water, and foam units, and highlights when they should or shouldn’t be used.

You’ll learn how to assess whether a fire is safe to fight, how to protect yourself from smoke, and why having a clear escape route is essential. The course also reviews inspection and maintenance practices so extinguishers remain charged, accessible, and compliant with safety regulations.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Identify the three elements that cause fires and how extinguishers interrupt them.
• Distinguish between fire classes and select the correct extinguisher type.
• Apply the PASS method to use an extinguisher safely and effectively.
• Recognize when a fire is unsafe to fight and when evacuation is necessary.
• Inspect and maintain fire extinguishers to ensure readiness and compliance.