Posted By Karen Todd Steve, We recently carried out fire extinguisher training for a number of employees and plan to have all employees trained over the next couple of years. Some of our employees were also anxious about going on the training course, and about any obligations they might have. We said that all employees would undergo the training, there would be no exceptions. The training covers other aspect of fire safety, not just how to use the extinguishers. We have also made it clear that there is no obligation on anyone to fight a fire. We have a couple of real firemen in our workforce, and we trained them as well. We didn't want to say, "Oh sure they're already firemen, they don't need trained". The trainers were very good and put peoples minds at rest. For example, someone asked what extinguisher would be a safe bet to use if they couldn't remember the right one to use. The instructor's answer was none, to get the hell out of there. The training also prompted a number of employees to think about fire safety in their own homes and on the request of the employees, the training company (whose main business is the supply and servicing of fire extinguishers etc.) then brought in fire blankets and small fire extinguishers which they sold to the employees for very reasonable rates. A lot of them really enjoyed the training and said it was the most useful training they'd undertaken. Regards, Karen

Posted By Steve Granger Ditto Karens reply, especially the comment on feedback from sceptics. We have introduced a brief training session across the board - including a hot fire practical that includes home safety. Every delegate has given positive feedback. Important to choose your trainer - get recommendations from neighbouring colleagues. Steve

Posted By Ken Taylor It is interesting that whereas fire certificates issued under the Fire Precautions Act 1971 tended to say something like 'All persons at work shall be instructed and trained..... The instruction and training shall cover....the correct method of operation and location of fire fighting equipment...', 'Fire Safety: An Employer's Guide' states 'The equipment must be suitable to the risks and appropriate staff will need training and instruction in its proper use'. Extinguisher training needs to be 'sold' to intended recipients on the basis of its potential benefit to themselves and their colleagues and an assurance that there will be no obligation to fight fires.