Staff Training First Step To Fighting Workplace Fires
AUCKLAND, 23 May - Basic fire equipment such as fire extinguishers, fire blankets and hoses are the first line of
defence against a workplace fire - but only if staff know how to use them properly.
Wormald says lack of knowledge among staff about how to use fire equipment is as big a threat to safety in the event of
workplace fires as lack of equipment.
Fire training courses, designed to teach staff what to do in the event of a fire, provide a safe and effective
environment for learning the skills needed to deal with a fire emergency.
Chris Mak, Wormald Technical Manager, says recent incidents show that without training and experience, fire equipment
can be dangerous, and ultimately useless, if not stored and used correctly.
"When fire breaks out, there is little time to react or think, so staff need to know where to go to find fire equipment
and what to do with it once they have it. Wormald's fire training courses allows staff to learn and practice the skills
they need to fight fire effectively."
One essential part of any training process is allowing staff an opportunity to practice fighting fire, using simulated
fire units like Wormald's Fire Simulator - a self contained mobile fire unit mounted on a trailer that allows staff to
practice their fire fighting skills in a controlled environment. The Fire Simulator is completely safe to use, as all
flames are contained within the unit and controlled remotely by the course trainer, allowing staff to experience real
fire and its dangers.
Employees from all over the country can participate in Wormald's fire training, as Fire Simulator units are based in all
major centres, and are portable. Over 10,000 employees have successfully completed the course to date.
Mak stresses that fire training for staff is more important than some businesses believe.
"Employers are legally obliged to provide a safe working environment for their employees. Everyone needs to know what to
do when fire breaks out."
Provisions within the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 mean employers need to take "all practicable steps" to
ensure the safety of employees while at work. This includes making sure they know what to do in the event of a workplace
fire.
ENDS