Free Safe Operating Procedure (Fire Extinguisher Use) Template

Purpose of the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Fire Extinguisher Use) Template

Effectively responding to a small fire requires clear, pre-established steps. Our free Safe Operating Procedure (Fire Extinguisher Use) Template provides a structured foundation for documenting the correct procedures for your workplace.

This resource helps ensure workers know when and how to safely operate a fire extinguisher, minimising risk and potential harm.

A Safe Operating Procedure (SOP) for fire extinguisher use is a critical document that formalises your organisation's approach to first-response fire fighting. Its purpose is to clearly define the steps for safely assessing a fire, selecting the appropriate extinguisher, and using it correctly on small, incipient-stage fires.

This template guides you through documenting potential hazards, required personal protective equipment (PPE), and the specific actions to take before, during, and after use. Integrating such procedures is a fundamental part of creating and maintaining comprehensive WHS management systems, demonstrating a proactive approach to emergency preparedness.

How to use the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Fire Extinguisher Use) Template

To use this template, simply download the DOCX file and open it in your preferred word processor. The document is structured with sections for you to complete, including task descriptions, potential hazards, and control measures.

It provides a logical framework aligned with Australian WHS practice for you to build upon.

Note: It is crucial to adapt this template to your specific workplace. We've provided a solid framework, but you must add details relevant to your site's specific fire risks, the types and locations of extinguishers available, and your unique emergency evacuation procedures. For example, a kitchen environment would require different considerations than a workshop, much like those detailed in our free Safe Operating Procedure for deep fryer operation.

When to Use This Safe Operating Procedure

This Safe Operating Procedure should not be read for the first time during an emergency. Its primary use is as a training and reference tool.

It should be a key document during employee inductions, regular safety training, and toolbox talks to familiarise workers with procedures before an incident occurs. The SOP should detail the universally recognised PASS technique: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, Squeeze the lever, and Sweep from side to side.

The procedure should be reviewed periodically as part of your safety management schedule, often prompted by regular WHS compliance audits to ensure it remains current and effective.

Who Should Use It

This template is designed for use by Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs), WHS managers, and supervisors responsible for developing and implementing workplace safety procedures. They must customise the content to reflect the site-specific environment.

Once finalised, the SOP is for all workers and contractors who may need to operate a fire extinguisher. It's vital to remember that only trained and competent individuals should attempt to fight a fire, and only when it is clearly safe to do so.

The priority must always be life safety and evacuation. If you need assistance developing site-specific emergency plans or training programs, consider seeking expert WHS consulting support to ensure your approach is robust.

A well-documented procedure is the first step towards a prepared and confident team. By customising this template, you create a clear, actionable guide that enhances safety and clarifies responsibilities during a critical event.

You can find more templates and checklists like this one in our complete free WHS resources library to help build out your safety documentation.