IOSH Emergency Procedures 4

Question 1

What are the classes of fire and why do they matter?

Accepted Answer

Classes A to F categorise fires by fuel type, which determines the correct extinguishing method and equipment to use

Answer

Fire classes: A (solid combustibles — wood, paper), B (flammable liquids — petrol, oil), C (flammable gases — propane, methane), D (metals — magnesium, sodium), E/Electrical (live electrical equipment), F (cooking oils and fats). Using the correct extinguishing agent for the class is critical for safety and effectiveness.

Question 2

What is a 'means of escape' and what are the legal requirements?

Accepted Answer

A safe route from any part of the building to a place of safety, which must be kept clear, adequately signed, lit, and sufficient for the number of occupants

Answer

A means of escape is a route from any point in a building to a final exit and place of safety. Legal requirements include: sufficient exits for the number of occupants, kept clear at all times, properly signed and lit (including emergency lighting), fire doors kept closed (not propped open), and alternative routes where possible.

Question 3

What are 'fire doors' and what are the rules about them?

Accepted Answer

Specially constructed doors that resist fire for a specified period, which must be kept closed (or fitted with automatic closers) and never propped open

Answer

Fire doors are constructed to resist fire and smoke for a specified period (typically 30 or 60 minutes). They compartmentalise the building to prevent fire spread. They must be kept closed (or fitted with automatic closers linked to the fire alarm), maintained in good condition, and never propped or wedged open.

Question 4

What is 'emergency lighting' and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Battery-backed or generator-powered lighting that activates when normal power fails, illuminating escape routes and safety signs

Answer

Emergency lighting is battery-backed or generator-powered lighting designed to illuminate escape routes, exit signs, and safety signs when the normal power supply fails. It ensures that people can safely find their way out of the building during a power failure or emergency. It must be regularly tested and maintained.

Question 5

What actions should be taken on discovering a fire?

Accepted Answer

Raise the alarm, call the fire brigade, evacuate using the nearest safe route, close doors behind you, go to the assembly point, and do not re-enter

Answer

On discovering a fire: raise the alarm immediately (break glass point), call 999 or the fire brigade, evacuate using the nearest safe escape route, close doors behind you to restrict fire spread, proceed to the assembly point, report to the fire warden, and do not re-enter the building under any circumstances.

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Emergency Procedures 4