Basic Fire Fighting & Fire Marshal Course in South Africa

Fire in the workplace represents one of the most substantial safety threats to employees and property. Are you prepared to respond effectively? Alika Training offers an accredited Basic Fire Fighting course designed to empower workplace fire wardens and employees with the critical skills needed to identify, prevent, and extinguish fires in their early stages.

Basic fire fighting training alika

Become a Fire Safety Champion with Alika's Basic Fire Fighting Training

Course Overview, Pricing & Accreditation

This program is designed for appointed workplace firefighters, fire marshals, and any individual wanting to gain a comprehensive understanding of emergency fire procedures.

  • Duration: 1 Day

  • Accreditation & Standards: Alika Training programs are aligned with national standards, including SAQA ID: 252250 (Apply Fire Fighting Techniques), NQF Level 1, and 3 Credits.

  • Professional Development: Completion of this course meets the academic requirements to earn Saiosh CPD (Continuing Professional Development) points.

  • Certificate Validity: Upon successful completion, learners receive a nationally recognized Basic Fire Fighting certificate valid for a 2-year period.

  • Assessment: Candidates must obtain a pass mark of at least 75% through a combination of written knowledge and practical workshop assessments.

  • Pricing: R890.

Why Fire Safety Training is a Legal Requirement in SA

Fire is devastating. Approximately 600 people die and over 4,000 are injured annually in South Africa as a result of fires, causing more than R500-million in property damage every year.

To combat this, South African legislation is very strict. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993), Construction Regulation 29, and the Environmental Regulations, companies are legally mandated to have trained personnel on-site.

  • The 1-in-50 Rule: Legislation requires that at least 1 in 50 people per company, or a minimum of two per building, must be formally trained in basic firefighting.

  • Compliance: Our training ensures your business complies with SANS 1475 (firefighting equipment maintenance), SANS 0400 (Fire Prevention), and SANS 0139 (evacuation procedures), as well as international NFPA Guidelines.

Comprehensive Basic Fire Fighting Course Curriculum

The best method of stopping a fire is to prevent it. Our course balances deep theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical experience.

1. The Science of Fire & Prevention

  • The Fire Tetrahedron: Understand the chemistry of combustion, heat transmission, and the components required to sustain a fire.

  • Fire Classes: Identify the different classes of fires (Class A, B, C, D) and understand how fire spreads. This knowledge is crucial for using the correct fire extinguisher and preventing the fire from spreading.

  • Hazard Identification: Learn the common causes of workplace fires, how to conduct a monthly fire checklist, and pre-planning for emergencies.

2. Fire Fighting Equipment & Practical Extinguishment

  • Extinguishing Mediums: Learn exactly when to use Water, Foam, Carbon Dioxide (CO2), and Dry Chemical Powder.

  • Hands-On Operation: Gain practical, hands-on experience safely operating fire extinguishers, fire hose reels, fire hydrants, and fire blankets.

  • Equipment Care: Understand the inspection and maintenance requirements for fire equipment under SANS 1475.

  • Personal Safety: Understand the strict requirements for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and know when a fire is too dangerous to fight.

  • Fire Safety Awareness: Develop a deep respect for fire and understand the importance of fire safety awareness in preventing and responding to fire.

3. Emergency Evacuation & Basic First Aid

  • Evacuation Procedures: Learn how to raise the alarm, organize a fire team, and safely manage emergency scene evacuation.

  • Casualty Management: Master lifting and carrying techniques for emergency patient removal.

  • First Aid for Burns: Learn crucial first aid techniques for treating burn wounds while awaiting professional emergency services.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Fire & Safety Courses

For organizations operating in higher-risk environments, a basic fire extinguisher may not be sufficient. Alika Training offers a comprehensive suite of advanced courses to further protect your workforce:

  • Advanced Firefighting: A 2-day course covering advanced equipment like main hydrants, branches, and smokehouse practicals.

  • Breathing Apparatus (SCBA): Essential training for workers entering oxygen-reduced environments or areas with severe respiratory hazards.

  • Hazardous Material Handling (Hazmat): Learn defensive strategies to safeguard against chemical spills and man-made gas emergencies.

  • Career Firefighting: While our basic course is for workplace wardens, we can guide those looking to become professional first responders through Fire Fighter I & II (IFSAC / NFPA 1001) standards.

Contact Alika Training Today!

Looking for accredited basic firefighting training in your area? Alika Training offers convenient training locations across South Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • How long is my basic firefighting certificate valid?

    Under South African standards, your basic firefighting and fire marshal certification remains valid for 2 years. After this period, a refresher course is required to maintain legal compliance.

  • Can Alika Training conduct this course at my workplace?

    Yes. While we have a fully equipped training center in Benoni, our facilitators frequently conduct on-site training at company premises across South Africa. This is highly recommended for corporate groups (typically 8 or more delegates) to ensure your staff learns to navigate their exact workplace environment. We can also accommodate local language instruction for larger groups upon request.

  • How long does a firefighter course take?

    Our Basic Fire Fighting course is a comprehensive 1-day program. We also offer an Advanced Firefighting course that takes 2 days to complete.

  • How much does a fire fighter course cost?

    The Basic Fire Fighting course at Alika Training costs R890. If you are interested in advanced modules or on-site corporate training, please refer to our complete course price list.

  • How much do firemen get paid in SA?

    While our page does not list municipal salary data, it is important to note that our Basic Fire Fighting course is primarily designed for workplace fire wardens and corporate compliance, rather than career municipal firefighters. However, if you are looking to become a professional first responder, we can guide you through the Fire Fighter I & II (IFSAC / NFPA 1001) standards required for that career path.

  • What are the requirements to study fire fighting?

    There are no strict academic prerequisites to enroll in our basic training. This program is openly designed for appointed workplace firefighters, fire marshals, and any individual wanting to gain a comprehensive understanding of emergency fire procedures and prevention.