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Fire Safety

On-the-job fires are often the result of not following instructions, using poor judgment or not following fire safety rules. This safety page is intended to let you know what causes fires, help you reduce the risk of fires, and what to do if a fire breaks out.

Knowing what causes fires will help reduce the risk of a fire being started. There are a few main hazards that can contribute to fires. Also, there are ways to prevent these hazards from being as dangerous.

They are as follows :

• Flammable Liquids– Store them only in approved safety cans or storage cabinets. Be sure they are labeled. Keep them in areas that are well ventilated. Store them away from heat or sparks. Clean up spills right away. Never smoke or light a match when you’re near flammable liquids or handling them. Oily rags must be stored in a covered metal container with a self-closing cover. Spontaneous ignition happens when heat builds up in piles of trash, damp waste or oily rags.
• Electrical Fire Hazards – Faulty electrical wiring is a common fire hazard. Loose wiring, overloaded circuits and overheated electric motors are dangerous. Here’s how you can prevent electrical fires:
• Check tools, equipment, extension cords and plugs for worn spots and exposed wires
• Keep switch boxes clean and closed
• Don’t try to use broken power tools or equipment
• Don’t attempt to repair broken power tools or equipment unless you’re a trained and experienced repair technician

In case a fire breaks out, here are some rules to follow :

• Report it – If you detect smoke or fire :
• Warn your coworkers
• Close any fire doors
• Report the fire immediately, no matter what size it is. The longer you wait, the more dangerous the fire can be to you and your coworkers. Follow your employer’s fire emergency notification policy.
• Stay calm, and evacuate the area or building
• When fire fighters arrive, direct them to the area
• Familiarize yourself with the fire emergency procedures for your facility before a fire

Fight it – If a fire is small, you may try to fight it after you report it.

To fight a small fire :

• Use the right fire extinguisher
• Break the seal and remove the pin from the fire extinguisher
• Stay 8 to 10 feet from the fire
• Press the lever and aim the fire extinguisher nozzle or horn at the base of the flames. Sweep the base of the fire. Continue with a steady stream, not short bursts. Don’t try to use a fire extinguisher unless you’ve been trained in which one to use and how to use it

Escape it – If the fire is large and out of control, escape may be your best choice.

• Move quickly, but don’t panic
• Don’t use elevators. You could get trapped inside if the power fails. Take the stairs instead.
• Use the evacuation plan for your work area
• Head for the designated fire exit
• Use a secondary exit if the first is blocked
• Close doors behind you as you go

Quote taken from 'Fire Safety' by the National Safety Council.

All information for this safety page provided by the National Safety Council from the Fire Safety booklet.