Standard Operating Procedure: Fire Extinguisher Usage

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) outlines the mandatory safety protocols and operational steps for utilizing portable fire extinguishers. In the event of a fire, the primary objective is human life safety; this procedure is intended only for incipient-stage fires. All employees must familiarize themselves with the location of fire extinguishers and the specific classifications assigned to their work area. If a fire grows beyond the controllable limit, immediately evacuate the area and contact emergency services.

Phase 1: Assessment and Preparation

• Evaluate the Threat: Determine if the fire is small enough to be controlled. If the fire is spreading rapidly or blocking your only exit, abandon the area immediately.
• Activate Alarm: Ensure the fire alarm has been triggered to alert other occupants.
• Confirm Classification: Verify the extinguisher type is compatible with the fire source:
  • Class A: Ordinary combustibles (wood, paper, cloth).
  • Class B: Flammable liquids (gasoline, oil, grease).
  • Class C: Electrical fires.
  • Class K: Kitchen fires (cooking oils/fats).
• Positioning: Stand 6–8 feet away from the fire, positioned between the fire and your nearest clear exit route.

Phase 2: Execution (The P.A.S.S. Technique)

• P – Pull: Grasp the extinguisher and pull the safety pin located at the top. This releases the locking mechanism and allows you to discharge the agent.
• A – Aim: Point the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire, not the flames. Extinguishing the fuel source is critical to suppression.
• S – Squeeze: Squeeze the handle lever firmly to release the extinguishing agent.
• S – Sweep: Move the nozzle from side to side at the base of the fire until the flames appear extinguished.

Phase 3: Post-Discharge Procedure

• Monitor: Watch the area closely for reignition. If the fire flares up again, repeat the P.A.S.S. process.
• Evacuate: Once the fire is extinguished or the agent is depleted, vacate the premises.
• Report: Notify the Facility Manager or Safety Officer immediately so the extinguisher can be recharged or replaced. Never return a used extinguisher to its station.

Pro Tips & Pitfalls

• Pro Tip: Always test the extinguisher briefly with a short burst before approaching the fire to ensure it is pressurized and functional.
• Pro Tip: Maintain a "buddy system" if possible—one person manages the extinguisher while the other monitors the exit path and calls emergency services.
• Pitfall (The "Top of Flame" Error): Aiming at the flames rather than the base is the most common mistake. Doing so simply blows the fire around without removing the fuel heat source.
• Pitfall (Emptying Too Fast): Do not discharge the entire contents at once if unnecessary. Use short, controlled bursts to manage the fire effectively.
• Pitfall (Ignoring Wind): If fighting a fire outdoors, always stand upwind so the fire does not blow toward you.

FAQ

Q: How do I know if the extinguisher is functional before an emergency? A: Check the pressure gauge monthly. The needle should be within the green zone. Ensure the pin is intact, the tamper seal is unbroken, and the service tag is current.

Q: Can I use a Class A extinguisher on an electrical fire? A: No. Using an extinguisher not rated for Class C on electrical equipment can result in electrical shock. Only use extinguishers explicitly labeled for the type of fire you are facing.

Q: What should I do if the fire extinguisher fails to discharge? A: If the extinguisher fails, immediately stop the attempt, discard the device, and evacuate the building. Do not attempt to repair or troubleshoot the device while in a high-danger environment.