Top 5 Workplace Fire Safety Statistics You Shouldn’t Ignore.

Recent research published by Fire and Safety Australia has revealed some concerning insights into workplace fire safety preparedness. After reviewing multiple studies and conducting their own research, they found that many workplaces remain significantly underprepared for fire emergencies.

While this research was conducted in Australia, the findings are highly relevant to New Zealand workplaces, where similar gaps in fire safety knowledge and emergency preparedness are commonly observed.

The research highlights a lack of confidence among building occupants when responding to emergencies - particularly around evacuation procedures and the correct use of fire extinguishers.

Below are the top five workplace fire safety statistics identified in the report, and why they matter.

Less than 50% of occupants feel confident in an emergency

The research found that over half of building occupants do not know what action to take or where to evacuate to during an emergency.

In New Zealand, regular evacuation drills are a key part of workplace fire safety compliance. Conducting routine evacuation exercises helps occupants become familiar with emergency procedures, evacuation routes, and assembly points. These drills significantly improve confidence and ensure people know how to act quickly and safely during a real emergency.

Less than 50% of occupants feel confident using a fire extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are designed to be simple and effective, yet fewer than half of people feel confident using one.

Basic fire extinguisher training teaches occupants how to:

• Identify the type of fire
• Select the correct class of extinguisher
• Operate the extinguisher safely and effectively

With proper training, occupants are far more capable of controlling small fires while waiting for emergency services-often preventing escalation and serious damage.

Less than 25% of people can locate their nearest fire extinguisher

In an emergency, hesitation and uncertainty can be dangerous. The research found that less than 25% of people could locate their nearest fire extinguisher from memory.

Regular fire safety training helps building occupants become familiar with the location of firefighting and emergency equipment. Repeated exposure and drills improve recall, allowing people to act instinctively rather than wasting precious time searching.

Over 50% of people use fire extinguishers incorrectly or dangerously

More than half of people who attempt to use a fire extinguisher do so incorrectly. Common mistakes include:

• Selecting the wrong extinguisher type
• Failing to aim at the base of the fire
• Not sweeping across the fire
• Stopping too early without cooling the area

Practical, hands-on training makes a measurable difference. Fire and Safety Australia’s research showed that over 90% of participants were able to operate a fire extinguisher correctly on their second attempt, and were 33% more effective after training.

Only 13% of people understand the different types of fire extinguishers

Using the wrong type of extinguisher can have dangerous consequences.

Fire safety statistics - both Australian and international - show that up to 95% of fires can be extinguished if the correct extinguisher is used promptly. Training improves both knowledge and confidence, empowering occupants to act decisively and safely in the early stages of a fire.

Why Fire Safety Training Matters

Providing employees with basic fire safety training significantly improves workplace readiness, confidence, and safety outcomes. Fire extinguisher training, in particular, can prevent small fires from becoming major incidents-protecting people, property, and business continuity.

If you’re considering improving your workplace’s fire safety preparedness, ACT Safety provides fire extinguisher training and Fire Warden training that complies with NZQA Unit Standard requirements.

It’s never too early-or too late-to upskill and be prepared.

Be Prepared Before an Emergency Happens

Fire emergencies don’t allow time for uncertainty or guesswork. Ensuring your team knows how to respond can make the difference between a minor incident and a major emergency.

ACT Safety delivers NZQA-compliant Fire Extinguisher and Fire Warden training, helping workplaces meet compliance requirements while giving staff the confidence and skills to act safely in an emergency.

• Practical, hands-on training
• Delivered by experienced safety professionals
• Suitable for businesses of all sizes
• Aligned with New Zealand workplace safety standards

Contact ACT Safety today to discuss your fire safety training requirements and take the next step toward a safer, more prepared workplace.

Get in touch with ACT Safety to book your training or request a consultation. Click Here to contact us today.