The complex environment of healthcare facilities requires standardized, easily recalled safety protocols to protect both patients and staff during an emergency. Acronyms offer a simple, structured way to ensure that personnel can act quickly and predictably when faced with a sudden hazard. These memory aids help translate extensive safety training into immediate, effective action under stressful conditions. A structured response is particularly important in hospitals and clinics, where vulnerable patients may be unable to evacuate themselves. One such standardized method provides a clear, step-by-step guide for managing a specific type of emergency.
Defining the PASS Acronym
The acronym PASS stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep, representing the four sequential steps for the proper operation of a portable fire extinguisher. This method is universally taught to staff in healthcare settings as part of comprehensive fire safety training. The purpose of PASS is to provide a reliable, repeatable process that maximizes the effectiveness of the extinguishing agent. Using an extinguisher incorrectly can waste valuable discharge time and fail to suppress the fire.
Practical Application of Each Step
The first letter, P, instructs the user to Pull the pin located at the top of the extinguisher’s handle assembly. This pin is a safety device that prevents accidental discharge and typically has a plastic or wire seal that must be broken. Removing the pin unlocks the operating levers, allowing the handle to be depressed.
The next step, A, is to Aim the nozzle or hose at the very base of the fire, not at the flames themselves. Fire requires fuel, heat, and oxygen, and a fire’s base is where the fuel source is located. Targeting the base ensures the extinguishing agent directly separates the fuel from the oxygen, effectively cooling and smothering the fire. Failure to aim low may only temporarily knock down the visible flames without eliminating the heat source.
The third step, S, is to Squeeze the handle levers fully together to begin the discharge of the extinguishing agent. The agent, which may be a dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide, or a clean agent, is stored under pressure. Squeezing the handles opens an internal valve, releasing the agent through the nozzle. The user should apply a steady, even pressure to ensure a consistent stream.
The final S is to Sweep the nozzle back and forth across the base of the fire. This side-to-side motion ensures the agent is evenly applied over the entire area of the fire. The sweeping should continue until the fire appears to be completely out, and the user should watch the area closely to ensure re-ignition does not occur.
Knowing When to Initiate the PASS Procedure
The decision to initiate the PASS procedure is the final step within a larger fire response protocol, often summarized by the acronym RACE. RACE stands for Rescue, Alarm, Confine, and Extinguish/Evacuate, and it provides the overarching framework for emergency action. Before using an extinguisher, staff must first ensure the safety of any individuals in immediate danger and activate the facility’s fire alarm system. They must also attempt to confine the fire by closing doors and windows to slow the spread of smoke and fire.
The choice to use PASS, the “Extinguish” part of RACE, is only appropriate under specific, limited circumstances. Personnel should only attempt to fight a fire if it is small and contained, such as a fire confined to a wastebasket. A trained individual must also confirm they are using the correct class of extinguisher for the material that is burning. Most importantly, a clear and unobstructed escape route must be available behind the person using the extinguisher, ensuring they can retreat if the fire cannot be controlled. If any of these conditions are not met, the appropriate action is to choose the “Evacuate” option instead of attempting to extinguish the blaze.