Comprehending the principles of Fire and Explosion is vital for identifying the factors that contribute to the initiation, spread, and exacerbation of fires. These factors, known as primary fire hazards, can either initiate or intensify a fire. Understanding these elements is crucial when conducting a fire risk assessment.

Fire and explosion are closely interconnected. In many instances, a fire follows an explosion. Therefore, individuals involved in fire safety and risk management must possess a fundamental understanding of the causes and properties of explosions, particularly in relation to processes involving gases and dusts. This knowledge is essential in order to effectively mitigate fire risks and ensure the safety of personnel and property.

Course Objectives:

Outline the properties of flammable and explosive materials and the mechanisms by which they ignite.
Outline the behavior of structural materials, buildings and contents in a fire.
Outline the main principles and practices of fire and explosion prevention and protection.
Outline the contribution to mechanical and systems failures to major accidents.
Explain the processes involved in the identification of hazards and the assessment of risk from fire.
Describe common fire detection and alarm systems and procedures.
Outline the factors to be considered when selecting fixed and portable firefighting equipment for the various types of fire.
Outline the factors to be considered in the provision and maintenance of means of escape.
Explain the purpose of, and essential requirements for, emergency evacuation procedures.

Who Should Attend?

Safety and risk manager
Project engineers
Facility personnel who are involved in implementing standards for safety instrumented systems
Supervisors with safety and health responsibilities.
Paramedics
Workers

Course Outlines:

Properties of Flammable and Explosive Materials

Properties of solids, liquids and gases.
The fire triangle
Ignition sources
Mechanisms of explosion and fire spread
Stages of combustion
Mechanisms of vapor cloud explosions and control of vapor phase explosions

Dust explosions and Behaviors of Structure and Materials in fire:

Dust explosions
The behavior of buildings in fire
Levels of fire resistance
Behaviors of common materials in a fire
Examples of fire incidents

Fire and Explosion Prevention and Protection:

Structural protection
Compartmentalization
Segregation of flammable, combustible and incompatible materials
Key features of plant design and process control
Hazardous area zoning
Exclusion of ignition sources
Methods of explosion relief
Mechanical and systems failures to Major accidents

Workplace fire risk assessment:

Fire hazards and the assessment of risk
The 5 steps to fire risk assessment
Fire detection and alarm systems
Principal components of alarm systems
Fixed and portable fire fighting equipment

Means of Escape

Provision and maintenance of means of escape
General requirements – travel distance, stairs and passageways
Emergency evacuation procedures
Fire wardens and their role
Personal emergency evacuation plans

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