Workplace Training

OSHA portable fire extinguisher quiz: check your workplace know-how

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This OSHA portable fire extinguisher quiz helps you choose the right extinguisher, use PASS steps, and follow key workplace rules in real scenarios. For next steps, review fire extinguisher maintenance steps, and round out safety basics with an osha ppe quiz and an osha hazard communication quiz.

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1What does PASS stand for when using a portable fire extinguisher?
2Which type of portable fire extinguisher is best suited for electrical fires?
3What is the first step when operating a portable fire extinguisher?
4How often should portable fire extinguishers be visually inspected, according to OSHA guidelines?
5What is the primary objective of using a portable fire extinguisher during a fire emergency?
6Which class of fires involves flammable liquids, and what type of extinguisher is most effective for them?
7According to OSHA requirements, who should be responsible for the routine inspection and maintenance of fire extinguishers in the workplace?
8What is the minimum frequency for a visual inspection of portable fire extinguishers as required by OSHA?
9When inspecting a portable fire extinguisher, which component is crucial for determining its readiness?
10If a portable fire extinguisher is found to be damaged during an inspection, what should be the immediate action?
11Which type of extinguisher is specifically designed to combat fires involving cooking oils and greases in a kitchen environment?
12When using a portable fire extinguisher near electrical equipment, which precaution is the most important?
13During which situations does OSHA require that employees receive fire extinguisher training?
14What critical maintenance practice ensures that a portable fire extinguisher remains reliable for use?
15When following the PASS technique, what is the recommended distance to stand from the fire while using a portable fire extinguisher?
16What are common indicators that a portable fire extinguisher may be out of service?
17In a multi-hazard workplace, how should the selection and placement of portable fire extinguishers be determined?
18After a portable fire extinguisher has been used during an incident, what steps should be followed in accordance with OSHA protocols?
19How do periodic training sessions and fire drills contribute to effective fire extinguisher use under OSHA standards?
20In situations where there are simultaneous hazards, such as a fire near critical equipment, what is a key consideration when using a portable fire extinguisher?
Learning Goals

Study Outcomes

  1. Understand key OSHA regulations related to fire extinguisher use.
  2. Analyze various emergency scenarios to select the appropriate fire extinguishing method.
  3. Apply proper procedures for safely operating portable fire extinguishers under different conditions.
  4. Evaluate compliance with workplace safety standards in simulated environments.
  5. Synthesize best practices to enhance overall readiness for certification exams and safety tests.
Study Guide

OSHA Portable Fire Extinguisher Cheat Sheet

  1. Understand the five classes of fires - Fires come in five flavors (A, B, C, D, and K), each requiring a specific strategy and extinguisher. From Class A wood-and-paper fiascos to sizzling cooking oil K-grade infernos, knowing the category helps you pick the perfect extinguisher and stay safe. Classification & Selection Guide
  2. Master the PASS technique - Using an extinguisher is as easy as PASS: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep. This proven method maximizes your firefighting power and keeps those flames from roaring back. PASS Technique Details
  3. Identify extinguisher types and uses - Not all extinguishers are created equal! Water, foam, dry chemical, COâ‚‚, and wet chemical each have fire classes they tackle best, so match the tool to the flame for ultimate safety. Extinguisher Types Explained
  4. Know OSHA requirements - OSHA mandates accessible extinguishers, regular inspections, and hands-on training to keep workplaces hazard-free. Staying compliant isn't just bureaucracy - it's your ticket to a safer environment. OSHA Fire Extinguisher Rules
  5. Learn extinguisher limits - Extinguishers aren't magical; they can't tame massive blazes or safely work in thick smoke. Always assess fire size and ensure a clear escape path before diving in. Extinguisher Limitations
  6. Inspect and maintain regularly - Monthly gauge checks, damage inspections, and annual professional servicing keep your extinguisher ready for action. Think of it as giving your fire-fighting sidekick a health check-up. Maintenance Must-Dos
  7. Place extinguishers smartly - Visibility and accessibility are key: mount extinguishers near high-risk zones with clear signage. Quick grab-and-go access can spell the difference between a controlled flicker and a full-blown fire. Placement Best Practices
  8. Recognize no-go situations - If flames roar too big, smoke gets dense, or your exit is blocked, it's time to evacuate, not engage. Calling emergency services is your safest play when conditions go south. When Not to Fight
  9. Get hands-on training - Theory is great, but real confidence comes from practice. Engage in live drills with different extinguisher types to build muscle memory and lightning-fast decision-making. Hands-On Training
  10. Stay up-to-date on safety protocols - Fire safety is a moving target: review evacuation plans, join drills, and track new regulations or tech upgrades. Continuous learning turns you from a casual learner into a safety superstar. Ongoing Fire Safety Tips
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Michael HodgeEdTech Product Lead & Assessment Design SpecialistQuiz Maker
Updated Feb 23, 2026