Fire safety officer course
The fire safety officer course is a key element in workplace safety management. Under current regulations, every company is required to identify and train one or more officers in charge of fire prevention and management.
Regulatory obligations and course participants
The main reference for the training obligation is Legislative Decree 81/2008, supplemented and updated by the Ministerial Decree of 2 September 2021. These regulations establish that every employer must designate, from among their workers, adequately trained persons to handle fire emergencies.
The fire safety officer course is therefore aimed at:
- workers appointed to implement fire prevention and fire-fighting measures
- managers of company emergency teams
- owners of small and medium-sized enterprises
- public and private sector operators involved in safety management
It should also be remembered that the training is not optional: it must be mandatorily refreshed every 5 years, as required by current regulations.
Risk classification and course duration
The courses differ according to the risk level of the activity carried out. This classification is divided into three categories: Level 1 (formerly low risk), Level 2 (formerly medium risk) and Level 3 (formerly high risk). Each of them provides a specific training path, both in content and in duration.
Level 1
Suitable for offices, shops and small non-industrial businesses.
Total duration:
4 hours, divided into:
• 2 hours of theory
• 2 hours of practical exercises
Level 2
Suitable for activities involving flammable substances or high flows of people (e.g. schools, hotels, warehouses).
Total duration:
8 hours, divided into:
• 5 hours of theory
• 3 hours of practical exercises
Level 3
Concerns industries, storage facilities or high-risk activities.
Total duration:
16 hours,
with in-depth work on complex scenarios, use of advanced equipment and management in the event of a large-scale fire.
Course content. Theory and practice for complete preparation
Every fire safety officer course is structured to ensure a balanced learning between theory and practice. The knowledge acquired in the classroom is consolidated through concrete exercises that simulate real situations.
The main topics covered include:
- principles of combustion and fire development
- effects of fire on people and the environment
- types of extinguishers and their correct use
- evacuation management
- calling for emergency assistance
- behavioural procedures in an emergency
Practical exercises, in particular, play a central role: participants learn to use extinguishers, hydrants and personal protective equipment in complete safety, under the guidance of qualified instructors.
Course format: in person or e-learning?
Courses can be delivered in the classroom at accredited training bodies or, for the theoretical part, via e-learning. The practical part, however, must always be carried out in person, in order to ensure real acquisition of operational skills.
This flexibility allows many companies to train their officers at times and in ways compatible with their internal organisation. Customised on-site courses can also be organised, subject to the training body’s assessment of the logistical requirements.
Certificate of attendance and course validity
- the participant’s personal details
- the training body
- duration and level of the course taken
- signature of the instructor and the head of the centre
The certificate has legal value and is indispensable in the event of inspections by supervisory bodies.
Fire safety officer refresher courses
Taking a course just once is not enough. The regulatory context and fire safety technologies are constantly evolving. For this reason, the Ministerial Decree of 2 September 2021 establishes that every fire safety officer must attend a refresher course every 5 years.
The refresher varies in length, always linked to the company’s risk level:
Level 1
2 hours (practical only)
Level 2
5 hours (2 theory + 3 practice)
Level 3
8 hours (5 theory + 3 practice)
In this way, workers keep their operational skills high and stay up to date with the latest procedures and regulations.
Why choose a recognised fire safety officer course
Choosing a course that complies with the regulations is essential to ensure:
- certified and nationally recognised training
- instructors with certified technical and teaching skills
- facilities equipped for practical tests
- up-to-date and complete teaching materials
- support in managing deadlines and refreshers
A reliable body follows the company even after the training, supporting the planning of periodic training activities and the correct filing of documentation.
Benefits for the company and workers
- greater awareness of risks
- reduced risk of penalties
- improved company image
- increased trust and responsibility among employees
A well-prepared team makes the difference in a critical moment. That is why it is essential not only to comply with the regulations, but to do so by choosing quality training paths designed to meet real operational needs.
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With S.T.A., every company can count on a reliable and well-prepared partner, able to turn regulatory obligations into opportunities for growth, efficiency and quality.
Contact us for personalised consulting: we will help you make your production environment compliant, safe and ready to meet every regulatory challenge in Fire Safety.