HEALTH & SAFETY
In the workplace, health and safety regulations are paramount to the well-being of the employees and the employer.
Overview
This course equips participants with the knowledge and practical skills to become Fire Marshals, responsible for fire safety, fire prevention, and managing emergency evacuations. The course complies with South African regulations, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act), and prepares Fire Marshals to act swiftly and effectively in case of a fire emergency.
Objectives
- Understand the duties and responsibilities of a Fire Marshal
- Conduct fire risk assessments and implement fire prevention measures
- Use fire-fighting equipment effectively
- Lead and coordinate emergency evacuations
- Respond to fire emergencies and assist others in case of fire
Course Prerequisite
Basic understanding of workplace Health and Safety.
Physically capable of performing fire safety and emergency response duties.
Communication at ABET Level 3 & Mathematical at ABET Level 3.
Language of Delivery
English
Delivery Methods
Course is facilitated by a competent subject matter trainer, who utilises a combination of the following techniques to ensure that the session is practical and experiential: Discussion; Role Play; Exercises & Case Studies; Videos/DVD’s; Games, Slide Shows & Written Questions.
Training & Evaluation
Training on a 50% theoretical and 50% practical basis.
Assessment
Written Assessment: Multiple-choice and short-answer test on fire safety, prevention, and risk assessment.
Practical Assessment: Hands-on evaluation on using fire-fighting equipment and coordinating an emergency evacuation.
Who should attend?
Designated Fire Marshals and Fire Wardens, Health and Safety Officers, Supervisors and managers in high-risk workplaces (industrial, office, warehouse, etc.), Anyone responsible for fire safety in their workplace.
Duration
2 Days
Includes:
- Comprehensive Manual
- Lunch & Refreshments (not applicable to on-site training)
- SAIOSH Accredited (2 CPD credits/points)
- Electronic Certificate (on successful completion of the course)
- Electronic Delegate Feedback Questionnaire
Course outline
| DAY 1 | FIRE SAFETY AND PREVENTION FUNDAMENTALS |
| Module 1 | Introduction to Fire Safety Overview of fire risks in the workplace Understanding fire behavior: the fire triangle (heat, fuel, oxygen) Overview of South African fire safety legislation (OHS Act, SANS 10400) The role and responsibilities of a Fire Marshal |
| Module 2 | Fire Risk Assessment Identifying fire hazards in the workplace (e.g., electrical equipment, flammable materials) Conducting a fire risk assessment Implementing control measures to prevent fires Documentation and reporting of risks and hazards |
| Module 3 | Fire Prevention and Protection Systems Fire alarms and detection systems Emergency lighting and signage Fire doors and fireproofing measures Maintenance and inspection of fire protection systems |
| Module 4 | Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Use Identifying the different classes of fires (A, B, C, D, F) Understanding and selecting the appropriate fire extinguisher (water, foam, CO2, dry powder) Practical demonstration: How to use a fire extinguisher |
| Module 5 | Fire Drills and Emergency Procedures Developing fire emergency procedures and evacuation plans Conducting regular fire drills Communicating the fire procedure to all employees Liaising with emergency services |
| DAY 2 | EMERGENCY EVACUATION AND RESPONSE |
| Module 6 | Emergency Evacuation Roles and Responsibilities Understanding the role of a Fire Marshal during an emergency Establishing evacuation routes and assembly points Coordinating with fire wardens and other safety personnel Managing evacuation of people with disabilities and other vulnerable individuals |
| Module 7 | Managing Evacuations and Crowd Control Ensuring calm and orderly evacuation Managing panic and ensuring the safety of all occupants Dealing with special scenarios (smoke-filled environments, blocked exits) |
| Module 8 | Firefighting Equipment and Practical Training Practical session on using fire-fighting equipment (extinguishers, fire blankets, hoses) Fire hose reels: Setup, operation, and use in different fire scenarios Responding to small and medium-sized fires before emergency services arrive |
| Module 9 | Fire Marshal Leadership Skills Communication and decision-making during emergencies Briefing and debriefing staff on fire safety procedures Keeping accurate records of drills, inspections, and incidents |
| Module 10 | Post-Incident Reporting and Investigation How to report a fire incident accurately Conducting a post-incident investigation Reviewing and improving fire safety measures based on incidents or drills |