Corso Antincendio (Basso Rischio)

The Fire Safety Course for Level 1 Risk Activities (formerly low risk) is a fundamental component of workplace safety. It equips participants with the skills to prevent fires and manage the initial stages of an emergency. Emphasis is placed on quick decision-making, knowledge of extinguishing equipment, and the ability to lead an orderly evacuation. This safety training is mandatory for many employees and forms a key part of workplace safety training. For updates on fire prevention regulations, you may refer to the National Fire Corps.

The Chemistry of Fire and the Combustion Triangle

To extinguish a fire, you must first understand how it starts. Combustion is a rapid oxidation reaction requiring three elements: fuel, an oxidiser (oxygen), and an ignition source. Prevention involves separating these elements. Extinguishing the fire means removing one: smothering (blankets, CO₂), cooling (water), or depleting the fuel. A fourth factor is chemical inhibition, which disrupts the chain reaction. During professional training, these techniques are safely practised using flame simulators.

Fire Classification and Extinguishing Agents

Not all fires are the same. Using the wrong extinguisher can be fatal. The fire classes that a professional must be familiar with are:

• Class A: solid materials (wood, paper, fabrics) that produce embers.
• Class B: flammable liquids (petrol, alcohol, solvents).
• Class C: flammable gases (methane, LPG).
• Class D: metals (magnesium, potassium), rarely found in low-risk offices.
• Class F: animal or vegetable oils and fats (cooking environments).

The powder extinguisher is multi-purpose (A, B, C), but leaves harmful residue for electronic equipment. The CO₂ extinguisher is ideal for electrical panels and servers, as it is non-conductive, leaves no residue, and operates through smothering and cooling.

Operational Procedures and Emergency Management

In low-risk environments, the fire warden acts as a sensor. They report the alarm and call emergency services (112 or 115), providing precise details. Only if the fire is a small outbreak and does not pose an immediate threat to life may they attempt to use a fire extinguisher. The correct technique: grip the extinguisher, remove the safety pin, test a short burst, and direct the flow at the base of the flames in a sweeping motion. They must remain downwind and ensure an escape route is behind them. Once the extinguisher is empty, they must never turn their back on the fire.

Evacuation Plan and Assembly Point

The ultimate objective of the course is to prevent smoke from trapping individuals. Smoke is the leading cause of death by asphyxiation and carbon monoxide poisoning. The designated responder guides colleagues along escape routes, closing fire doors to compartmentalise the area. Evacuation concludes at the assembly point, where a roll call is conducted. The fire brigade is then informed that the evacuation has been completed and whether any individuals are unaccounted for or require assistance due to limited mobility.