Basic Firefighting
The Basic Firefighting course equips learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to identify, prevent, and safely control incipient‑stage fires in the workplace. The programme focuses on fire behaviour, correct use of firefighting equipment, and safe response procedures, supporting workplace fire safety and legislative compliance.
Description
This course provides a structured introduction to fire safety and firefighting in occupational environments. Learners are trained to assess fire situations, select appropriate firefighting methods, and safely operate firefighting equipment such as fire extinguishers and hose reels. Emphasis is placed on personal safety, correct decision‑making, and knowing when to retreat and hand over to emergency services.
The training includes both theoretical instruction and practical firefighting exercises, enabling learners to respond effectively to workplace fire emergencies within a defined scope of practice.
Duration
- Typically delivered as a 1‑day instructor‑led course
- Includes classroom learning and practical firefighting demonstrations
Prerequisites
- No formal prior firefighting training required
- Learning assumed to be in place:
- Communication skills at NQF Level 1 or equivalent
- Mathematical literacy at NQF Level 1 or equivalent
- Learners should be physically capable of participating in practical exercises involving firefighting equipment
Target Audience
This course is suitable for:
- Employees appointed as workplace firefighters
- Health and safety representatives
- Supervisors and team leaders
- Employees working in environments with identified fire risk
Typical Outcomes
On successful completion, learners will be able to:
- Explain fire behaviour, fire classes, and causes of fires
- Identify fire hazards and apply basic fire prevention principles
- Select, inspect, and use appropriate firefighting equipment
- Safely fight containable fires and monitor changing fire conditions
- Retreat safely and hand over incidents to appropriate authorities
- Report and record the status of fire incidents and equipment