Fire Prevention Basics??
- Eliminate Fire Hazards:
- Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.??
- Don’t overload electrical circuits or use damaged wires or outlets.
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Store hazardous chemicals properly, in approved containers, and away from ignition sources.
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Good Housekeeping:
- Maintain a clean, clutter-free workspace to avoid the buildup of combustible materials.
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Dispose of waste, especially flammable items, in appropriate bins.
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Equipment Maintenance:
- Regularly inspect electrical appliances and machinery for damage or overheating.?
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Have fire extinguishers, alarms, and sprinklers routinely checked and serviced.?
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Safe Work Practices:
- Prohibit open flames and smoking in non-designated areas.
- Handle flammable materials cautiously, ensuring lids are tightly sealed after use.
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Follow safety protocols when working with heat-generating equipment like welding tools.?
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Train Employees:
- Conduct fire safety training so employees are aware of fire risks and know prevention strategies.??
Emergency Response Steps
1. Detecting a Fire
- Stay alert for signs like smoke, flames, or the smell of something burning.?
- Immediately activate the nearest fire alarm if you detect a fire.
2. Follow the R.A.C.E. Protocol:
- Rescue: Assist individuals in immediate danger, if it’s safe to do so.???
- Alarm: Activate the fire alarm system and notify emergency services.
- Contain: Close doors and windows to prevent the fire from spreading.
- Evacuate/Extinguish: Evacuate safely, or extinguish a small fire if trained and it’s manageable.?
3. Evacuation Procedures
- Use designated evacuation routes and fire exits.??
- Never use elevators during a fire.
- Move to the assigned assembly point and stay there until instructed otherwise.
4. Using a Fire Extinguisher (P.A.S.S. Method)
- Pull the pin.
- Aim at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the handle.
- Sweep side-to-side at the base until the fire is out.
Important: Only attempt to extinguish a fire if:
- It is small and contained (e.g., trash can or small stove fire).
- You know how to use the fire extinguisher.
- You have a clear escape route in case the fire grows.
After the Emergency
- Account for Everyone:
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At the assembly point, verify that all employees or team members are present.?
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Report the Incident:
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Notify your supervisor and document the event, including how it started and how it was handled.
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Provide Support:
- Offer counseling for employees who may be distressed.?
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Replace damaged safety equipment and review fire safety protocols.
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Investigate the Cause:
- Work with professionals to determine the source of the fire and implement improvements to prevent recurrence.
Key Fire Safety Tools for Prevention & Response
- Smoke Alarms & Detectors: Ensure they are installed and tested regularly.
- Fire Extinguishers: Place them in accessible locations and train employees on their use.
- Sprinkler Systems: Install and maintain automatic sprinklers for rapid fire suppression.
- Emergency Exits: Keep exits clearly marked, well-lit, and unobstructed.?
- Fire Blankets: Use to smother small fires or protect someone during evacuation.?
Best Practices for Employers
- Develop and distribute a Fire Prevention Plan (FPP) that includes hazard controls, equipment maintenance, and emergency procedures.
- Conduct regular fire drills to familiarize employees with evacuation routes.?
- Assign fire wardens to help with evacuations and ensure everyone is accounted for.?
- Post clear signage for fire exits, alarms, and extinguisher locations.