Incipient Fire Training & Fire Brigades

Most fires are small when they start. An incipient-stage fire is one that can be put out with a portable extinguisher or a small hose without protective gear or breathing apparatus. The key is knowing when to fight it and when to leave.

• All Workers
• Fire Watch
• Employers

Should you fight it?

Only if all of these are true:

• The fire is small and not spreading, and the room is not filling with smoke
• Everyone has been told and the alarm has been raised or 911 called
• You have a clear exit behind you
• You have the right extinguisher and know how to use it
• You feel safe doing so

If not, get out, close the door and call for help. Property can be replaced. See Exit Routes and Emergency Action Plans.

PASS method

1. Pull the pin.
2. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
3. Squeeze the handle.
4. Sweep side to side across the base.

Stand about 6 to 8 feet away, and back away as the fire dies. Keep watching for flare-ups. See Fire Extinguishers for classes.

What OSHA requires

• If employees are expected to use extinguishers, the employer must provide training when first hired and at least once a year (1910.157(g)). It covers the principles and hazards of incipient-stage firefighting and hands-on use.
• If the plan is to evacuate only, employees need not be trained to fight fires, but must know how to evacuate.
• Extinguishers must be inspected monthly and maintained yearly. See Extinguisher Inspections.

Fire brigades

• A fire brigade is an organized group of workers trained to fight fires beyond the incipient stage at their facility (1910.156).
• Members must be physically fit, trained at least annually (more for interior structural firefighting) and equipped with turnout gear and breathing apparatus.
• Most employers do not have brigades. They rely on the public fire department and have workers evacuate.

Last updated: October 8, 2026