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HygieneReady

Fire Extinguisher Awareness: syllabus

United Kingdom version. Last updated 31 October 2026.

3 online modules, each with a real-life scenario and a short quiz, then a final test of 12 questions. Pass with 9 correct answers in 20 minutes. Refresher training is recommended every year.

  1. Module 1. Fire classes and extinguisher types

    Using the wrong extinguisher can make a fire worse or put you in danger. This module explains which extinguisher to use on which fire.

    What you will learn

    • Name the classes of fire.
    • Identify extinguishers by their colour label.
    • Match the extinguisher to the fire.

    Key points

    • Match the extinguisher to the class of fire.
    • Never use water or foam on electrical equipment or cooking oil.
    • Wet chemical (yellow) for cooking oil; CO2 (black) for electrical.

    Based on: Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (England and Wales); Fire (Scotland) Act 2005; Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010; Fire Safety Act 2021.

  2. Module 2. When and how to use an extinguisher

    Most people should raise the alarm and leave. An extinguisher is only for small fires, used by trained people, when it is safe.

    What you will learn

    • Decide whether it is safe to tackle a fire.
    • Use an extinguisher with the PASS method.
    • Know when to stop and leave.

    Key points

    • Only tackle a small fire if trained, the alarm is raised and you have a clear exit.
    • PASS: pull, aim at the base, squeeze, sweep.
    • If it is not working within seconds, leave and close the door.
    • Report every use.

    Based on: Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (England and Wales); Fire (Scotland) Act 2005; Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010; Fire Safety Act 2021.

  3. Module 3. Checks, maintenance and practical training

    Extinguishers must be in the right place, in working order and ready to use.

    What you will learn

    • Carry out a monthly visual check.
    • Know servicing requirements.
    • Understand the need for hands-on training.

    Key points

    • Check extinguishers monthly: place, seal, gauge, condition, label.
    • Annual service by a competent engineer, recorded in the log book.
    • Hands-on training should be arranged by your employer.

    Based on: Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (England and Wales); Fire (Scotland) Act 2005; Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010; Fire Safety Act 2021.

HygieneReady certificates confirm completion of training. They are not a regulated qualification. Definitions of the key terms are in the glossary.