What training must our employees receive to operate a fire extinguisher?

If you do not expect any employees to use a fire extinguisher, then no training is required. However, for any employees who are expected to use them, OSHA covers training in 1910.157(g).

Where the employer has provided portable fire extinguishers for employee use, the employer must provide an educational program to familiarize employees with the general principles of fire extinguisher use and the hazards involved with incipient stage fire fighting. This training must be provided upon initial employment and at least annually thereafter.

The employer shall provide employees who have been designated to use fire fighting equipment as part of an emergency action plan with training in the use of the appropriate equipment. This training must be provided upon initial assignment to the designated group of employees and at least annually thereafter.

Employers must also satisfy local/state building and fire codes in regard to fire extinguishers.