Fire Prevention
Date Posted: 09/14/2016
When workers think of fire prevention, they often think of fire extinguishers and having them close by to prevent a larger fire. When fire prevention is done right, it eliminates the need of a fire extinguisher.
Storage of Flammables
Store flammable liquids in a secure storage container
Oily or used rags, flammable or hazardous wastes, such as caustics, acids, harmful dusts or similar materials are to be disposed of into flammable storage containers with covers.
More than 25 gallons of flammable liquids must be stored in an approved cabinet
You Must Know
The location of the fire extinguisher nearest to your work area
The limitations and proper use of A, B, C, and D type fire extinguishers
Which type of fire extinguisher you should use on each type of fire. Using the wrong extinguisher (e.g., water on burning oil) can cause a fire to spread
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are to be accessible and visible within 100 feet
Fire extinguisher, rated not less than 2A, shall be provided for each 3,000 square feet of a combustible building area.
A 2A rated fire extinguisher should be provided for each floor
A 10B rated fire extinguisher shall be provided within 50 feet whenever more than 5 gallons of flammable liquids or 5 pounds of flammable gas are being used on the jobsite.
All fire extinguishers must be visually inspected monthly and must receive an annual maintenance check. Keep records of all annual maintenance reports and make available upon request. Make sure that a hydrostatic test is conducted per WAC 296-24-59212.
In Case of Fire
Warn others and yell for help if required.
Use the proper fire extinguisher if the fire is small.
Always call 911 or your local emergency number. Turn on the fire alarm immediately. Post lookouts to direct firefighters to the fire.
In the case of electrical, propane, or gas fires, the first step is to shut off the supply. Therefore, before commencing work, find out where all the disconnects and main gas valves are located.
Presenter tips
Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level and confidence will be higher if you know your topic.
Discuss related tasks, work areas or events that make the Toolbox Talk relevant to your job site.
Involve the workers by asking questions and input that drives discussion.
Questions for Discussion
Do you know where the fire extinguishers are located on this jobsite?
Have you ever thrown away oily rags into a garbage can or small container?
