The PASS Technique

Why This Matters

The PASS Technique deserves a specific pre-task check because using the wrong extinguisher or attempting to fight a growing fire can delay evacuation and increase exposure. For this briefing, connect the topic to the exact equipment, work area and conditions the crew will face today, and agree a clear stop-work trigger before the task begins.

Key Points

• Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire (not the flames), Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side across the base
• Aiming at visible flame rather than the fire's base wastes extinguishing agent without addressing the fuel source directly
• Position yourself with a clear, unobstructed exit at your back before beginning suppression — never fight from a position that could become trapped

Best Practices

• Identify the fire class (A, B, C, D, K) relevant to your work area before selecting an extinguisher type
• Inspect extinguisher pressure gauge, pin, tamper seal, and mounting on a documented monthly schedule
• Keep extinguishers visible, accessible, and unobstructed by stored material or equipment at all times
• Attempt to fight only a fire that is small, contained, and behind you relative to a clear escape route
• Never attempt to fight a fire alone if an alarm can be triggered and assistance summoned first
• Obtain hands-on training before relying on an extinguisher in an actual emergency — technique under stress differs from technique in a training session

Scenario & Site Check

Discuss this scenario: A crew is about to start work where the pass technique is relevant, but one condition in the work area has changed since the task was last performed. Ask the team what could make that change important, which control must be verified first, and who has authority to stop the job.

• Field check: identify extinguisher type, access, inspection status, escape route and the point at which evacuation is mandatory.
• Evidence: confirm the applicable permit, inspection, label, test result, procedure or equipment status rather than relying only on memory.
• Close-out question: “What would make us stop and reassess this task today?”

Reference Point

Use the current requirement that applies to your site. A useful starting point for Fire Extinguishers is OSHA / NIOSH primary guidance. Company procedures, manufacturer instructions and local law may impose additional or more stringent controls.