HAZWOPER 40 - Lesson 19: Fire Protection

Must employers have a fire prevention plan?

All fire prevention plans must: Be available for employee review. Include housekeeping procedures for storage and cleanup of flammable materials and flammable waste. Address handling and packaging of flammable waste. (E.g., Recycling of flammable waste such as paper is encouraged.) Cover procedures for controlling workplace ignition sources such as smoking, welding, and burning. Provide for proper cleaning and maintenance of heat producing equipment such as burners, heat exchangers, boilers, ovens, stoves, and fryers, and require storage of flammables away from this equipment. Inform workers of the potential fire hazards of their jobs and plan procedures. Require plan review with all new employees and with all employees whenever the plan is changed.

Class D Fires: Combustible Metals

Control dust and turnings Follow established control procedures Never use wet sand or water to extinguish fires Moisture releases oxygen which can fuel the fire Metal fires can burn up to 5000 degrees Metals can be extremely difficult to extinguish

Equipment

Examples of equipment that needs to be maintained include: Hose reels and cabinets Hose outlets and connections, mounting Hose, connected or readily available Nozzles, shut-off type (straight or fog) Water supply, 100 gpm for 30 minutes

Do employers have to provide portable fire extinguishers?

No. But if you do, you must establish an educational program to familiarize your workers with the general principles of fire extinguisher use. If you expect your workers to use portable fire extinguishers, you must provide hands-on training in using this equipment. NOTE: For details, see 29 CFR Part 1910 Subpart L.

Response Time

Operate in time to control or extinguish: The employer shall assure that fire detection systems installed for the purpose of actuating fire extinguishment or suppression systems shall be designed to operate in time to control or extinguish a fire. Provide time for employee evacuation: The employer shall assure that fire detection systems installed for the purpose of employee alarm and evacuation are designed and installed to provide a warning for emergency action and safe escape of employees.

Learning Objectives At the completion of this lesson, you will be able to:

Summarize the four different fire classifications. List the three most common types of fire extinguishers (FEs). Explain what the acronym PASS means. Identify routine inspection steps in an acceptance test on sprinkler systems. Name the types of fixed dry chemical systems that may be installed to meet OSHA standards.

Installation and Testing

The employer shall assure that all employee alarm systems are restored to normal operating condition as promptly as possible after each test or alarm. Spare alarm devices and components subject to wear or destruction shall be available in sufficient quantities and locations for prompt restoration of the system.

Water Supplies

The employer shall assure that every automatic sprinkler system is provided with at least one automatic water supply capable of providing design water flow for at least 30 minutes. An auxiliary water supply or equivalent protection shall be provided when the automatic water supply is out of service, except for systems of 20 or fewer sprinklers.

Test and Maintenance

The following maintenance should be routine for all equipment: Water supply tanks should be kept full. The employer shall assure that water supply tanks are kept filled to the proper level except during repairs. When pressure tanks are used, the employer shall assure that proper pressure is maintained at all times except during repairs. Valves should be kept fully open. The employer shall assure that valves in the main piping connections to the automatic sources of water supply are kept fully open at all times except during repair. Hose systems should be inspected annually and after use. The employer shall assure that hose systems are inspected at least annually and after each use to assure that all of the equipment and hose are in place, available for use, and in serviceable condition. Re-rack hemp or linen hoses annually. The employer shall assure that hemp or linen hose on existing systems is un-racked, physically inspected for deterioration, and re-racked using a different fold pattern at least annually. Trained personnel should conduct inspections. The employer shall designate trained persons to conduct all inspections required under this section.

Fixed System: Gaseous Agent Section 1910.162

This scene discusses all fixed extinguishing systems, using a gas as the extinguishing agent, installed to meet a particular OSHA standard. These systems shall also comply with 1910.160. In some cases, the gas may be in a liquid state during storage.

Employee Alarm Systems Section 1910.165

This section applies to all emergency employee alarms installed to meet a particular OSHA standard. The requirements in this section that pertain to maintenance, testing, and inspection shall apply to all local fire alarm signaling systems used for alerting employees regardless of the other functions of the system.

Types of Fire Extinguishers (FEs) Different types of fire extinguishers are designed to fight different classes of fire. The three most common types of fire extinguishers are:

Water (APW) APW stands for "air-pressurized water." APWs are large, silver extinguishers that are filled about two-thirds of the way with ordinary tap water, which is then pressurized with normal air. In essence, an APW is just a giant squirt gun. NOTE: Water - Air Pressurized Water Extinguishers Note: Class I - 2.5" hose APWs stand about 2 feet tall and weigh approximately 25 pounds when full. APWs are designed for Class A (wood, paper, cloth) fires only. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Carbon Dioxide extinguishers are filled with non-flammable carbon dioxide gas under extreme pressure. You can recognize a CO2 extinguisher by its hard horn and the lack of pressure gauge. The pressure in the cylinder is so great that when you use one of these extinguishers, bits of dry ice may shoot out of the horn. NOTE: Carbon Dioxide Extinguisher CO2 cylinders are red and range in size from 5 lbs to 100 lbs or larger. In the larger sizes, the hard horn will be located on the end of a long, flexible hose. Note: Class II - 1.5" hose CO2s are designed for Class B and C (flammable liquid and electrical) fires only. Dry Chemical (ABC, BC, and DC) Dry Chemical extinguishers come in a variety of types. You may see them labeled: ABC indicating that they are designed to extinguish class A, B, and C fires; BC indicating that they are designed to extinguish class B and C fires; DC short for "dry chemical." NOTE: Dry Chemical (ABC, BC, DC) ABC extinguishers are red and range in size from 5 lbs to 20 lbs on campus. Note: Class III - both 2.5" and 1.5" It is extremely important to identify which types of dry chemical extinguishers are located in your area. Read the labels and know their locations! An "ABC" extinguisher will have a label like this, indicating that it may be used on class A, B, and C fires.

Precedents

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' fires and explosions accounted for 3.4% of workplace fatalities in 2013. This page provides valuable reference materials for prevention of fire-related injuries in all workplaces. Fire safety is addressed in specific standards for recordkeeping, general industry, shipyard employment, marine terminals, longshoring, gear certification, and the construction industry. This page highlights OSHA standards, the Regulatory Agenda (a list of actions being taken with regard to OSHA standards), directives (instructions for compliance officers), and national consensus standards related to fire safety. Fire safety becomes everyone's job at a worksite. Employers should train workers about fire hazards in the workplace and about what to do in a fire emergency. This plan should outline the assignments of key personnel in the event of a fire and provide an evacuation plan for workers on the site. In the construction industry, a "fire plan" should be set up prior to the beginning of any demolition job.

Specific Requirements

Agents used for initial supply and replenishment shall be of the type approved for the system's application. Carbon dioxide obtained by dry ice conversion into liquid is not acceptable unless it is processed to remove excess water and oil. Total flood reached in 30 seconds. (Halon is 10 seconds.). Example: The employer shall assure that the designed extinguishing concentration is reached within 30 seconds of initial discharge except for Halon systems which must achieve design concentration within 10 seconds. Pre-discharge alarm required for Halon 1211 and CO2 at > 4%, and Halon 1301 at > 10%. Example: The employer shall provide a distinctive pre-discharge employee alarm capable of being perceived above ambient light or noise levels when an agent design concentrations exceed the maximum safe level for employee exposure. A pre-discharge employee alarm for alerting employees before system discharge shall be provided on Halon 1211 and carbon dioxide systems with a design concentration of 4 percent or greater and for Halon 1301 systems with a design concentration of 10 percent or greater. Furthermore, the pre-discharge employee alarm shall provide employees time to safely exit the discharge area prior to system discharge. Halon 1301 has an additional egress time and % limits. Example: Where egress from an area cannot be accomplished within one minute, the employer shall not use Halon 1301 in concentrations greater than 7 percent. Additionally, Halon 1301 and other hydrogenated methanes have the potential for substantial ozone damage. Therefore, many available substitute agents are recommended.

What does OSHA require for emergency fire exits?

Every workplace must have enough exits suitably located to enable everyone to get out of the facility quickly. Considerations include the type of structure, the number of persons exposed, the fire protection available, the type of industry involved, and the height and type of construction of the building or structure. In addition, fire doors must not be blocked or locked when employees are inside. Delayed opening of fire doors, however, is permitted when an approved alarm system is integrated into the fire door design. Exit routes from buildings must be free of obstructions and properly marked with exit signs. NOTE: See 29 CFR Part 1910.36 for details about all requirements.

Fixed Fire Suppression Equipment

Fixed Extinguishing Systems Section 1910.160 This section applies to all fixed extinguishing systems installed to meet a particular OSHA standard except for automatic sprinkler systems, which are covered under 1910.159.

General Requirements

Fixed extinguishing system components and agents shall be designed and approved for use on the specific fire hazards they are expected to control or extinguish: Designed and approved for specific hazards Noticeable distinctive alarms required Safeguards to prevent employee entrance Hazard warning or caution signs Systems inspected annually Sprinklers clear of obstructions

What are the rules for fixed extinguishing systems?

Fixed extinguishing systems throughout the workplace are among the most reliable fire fighting tools. These systems detect fires, sound an alarm, and send water to the fire and heat. To meet OSHA standards, employers who have these systems must: Substitute (temporarily) a fire watch of trained employees to respond to fire emergencies when a fire suppression system is out of service. Ensure that the watch is included in the fire prevention plan and the emergency action plan. Post signs for systems that use agents (e.g., carbon dioxide, Halon 1211, etc.) posing a serious health hazard. When OSHA conducts workplace inspections, it checks to see whether employers are complying with OSHA standards for fire safety. OSHA standards require employers to provide proper exits, fire fighting equipment, and employee training to prevent fire deaths and injuries in the workplace.

The employer shall assure that all employee alarm systems are restored to normal operating condition as promptly as possible after each test or alarm. Spare alarm devices and components subject to wear or destruction shall be available in sufficient quantities and locations for prompt restoration of the system.

Maintain in operating condition: The employer shall assure that all employee alarm systems are maintained in operating condition except when undergoing repairs or maintenance. Test unsupervised alarms every two months: The employer shall assure that a test of the reliability and adequacy of non-supervised employee alarm systems is made every two months. Test supervised alarms annually by qualified personnel: The employer shall assure that all supervised employee alarm systems are tested at least annually for reliability and adequacy.

Maintenance and Testing:

Maintained in operable condition. The employer shall maintain all systems in an operable condition except during repairs or maintenance. Test system as needed to ensure reliability. The employer shall assure that fire detectors and fire detection systems are tested and adjusted as often as needed to maintain proper reliability and operating condition, except if factory calibrated detectors need not be adjusted after installation. Only trained personnel on system. The employer shall assure that the servicing, maintenance, and testing of fire detection systems, including cleaning and necessary sensitivity adjustments are performed by a trained person knowledgeable in the operations and functions of the system.

Classification of Fire

Not all fires are the same, and they are classified according to the type of fuel that is burning. If you use the wrong type of fire extinguisher on the wrong class of fire, you can, in fact, make matters worse. It is therefore, very important to understand the four different fire classifications. They are: Class A: Wood, paper, cloth, trash, plastics, which are solid combustible materials that are not metals. Class B: Flammable liquids - (gasoline, oil, grease, and acetone). Any non-metal in a liquid state when on fire. This classification also includes flammable gases. Class C: Electrical: energized electrical equipment that is plugged in is considered a class C fire. Class D: Metals: potassium, sodium, aluminum, and magnesium. Unless you work in a laboratory or in an industry that uses these materials, it is unlikely you'll have to deal with a Class D fire. It takes special extinguishing agents (Metal-X, foam) to fight such a fire. FAST FACT: Class K is not mentioned in OSHA regulations. However, a fire extinguisher labeled with this letter is for use on fires containing vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats used for cooking. It is for use in commercial kitchens, including those found in restaurants, cafeterias, and catering facilities.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

PASS System of Using Portable Fire Extinguishers It's easy to remember how to use a fire extinguisher if you can remember the acronym PASS, which stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep. P - Pull the pin. A - Aim nozzle at base of flames. S - Squeeze the trigger. S - Sweep the extinguisher from side to side, covering the area of the fire with the extinguishing agent.

Lesson Focus This lesson focuses on the following topics:

Part 1: What is fire and how can it be controlled Precedents The Fire Triangle Classification of Fire Types of Fire Extinguishers (FEs) Portable Fire Extinguishers Section 1910.157 How to Use a Fire Extinguisher Part 2: Fire Protection Systems Standpipe and Hose Systems: Section 1910.158 Automatic Sprinkler Systems Section 1910.159 Fixed Fire Suppression Equipment Fire Detection Systems Employee Alarm Systems

Protection of Fire Detectors

Protected from Corrosion: The employer shall assure that fire detection equipment installed outdoors or in the presence of corrosive atmospheres be protected from corrosion. The employer shall provide a canopy, hood, or other suitable protection for detection equipment requiring protection from the weather. Located/protected from physical impact: The employer shall locate or otherwise protect detection equipment so that it is protected from mechanical or physical impact which might render it inoperable.

Standpipe and Hose Systems: Section 1910.158

Section Applies to Class II and III This section applies to all small hose, Class II, and Class III standpipe systems installed to meet the requirements of a particular OSHA standard.

Sprinklers

The employer shall assure that only approved sprinklers are used on systems. Mixing of type or brand of replacements requires new engineering analyses.

Standpipes will be protected:

The employer shall assure that standpipes are located or otherwise protected against mechanical damage. Damaged standpipes should be promptly repaired.

Acceptance Tests

The employer shall conduct proper acceptance tests on sprinkler systems installed for employee protection after January 1, 1981, and record the dates of such tests. Proper acceptance tests include the following: Flush underground connections Hydrostatic tests of piping Air-tests in dry-pipe systems Test of drainage facilities

Placement by Maximum Travel Distances

The employer shall distribute portable fire extinguishers for use by employees on Class A fires so that the travel distance for employees to any extinguisher is 75 feet (22.9 m) or less. Class A and D - 75 feet The employer shall distribute portable fire extinguishers for use by employees on Class A fires so that the travel distance for employees to any extinguisher is 75 feet (22.9 m) or less. Class B - 50 feet The employer shall distribute portable fire extinguishers for use by employees on Class B fires so that the travel distance from the Class B hazard area to any extinguisher is 50 feet (15.2 m) or less. Class C - Based on existing As and Bs The employer shall distribute portable fire extinguishers used for Class C hazards on the basis of the appropriate pattern for the existing Class A or Class B hazards.

Maintenance

The employer shall properly maintain an automatic sprinkler system. The employer shall assure that a main drain flow test is performed on each system annually. The inspector's test valve shall be opened at least every two years to assure that the sprinkler system operates properly.

Total Flooding Systems

The employer shall provide an emergency action plan in accordance with 1910.38 for each area within a workplace that is protected by a total flooding system, which provides agent concentrations exceeding the maximum safe levels. On all total-flooding systems the employer shall provide a pre-discharge employee alarm that complies with 1910.165 and is capable of being perceived above ambient light or noise levels before the system discharges, which will give employees time to safely exit from the discharge area before system discharge.

General Requirements

The employer shall provide portable fire extinguishers and shall comply with the following: Mount, locate, and identify fire extinguishers. Use only approved fire extinguishers. No carbon tetrachloride or chlorobromomethane should be used. Maintain fire extinguishers fully charged and operable. No soldered or riveted shell inverting type fire extinguishers should be used. EXAMPLE: https://player.360training.com/ICPFileSystem/PersistentAssets/414610/645016/General_Req_Example-GM.jpg

Inspection, Maintenance, and Testing

The employer shall: Not provide or make available in the workplace portable fire extinguishers using carbon tetrachloride or chlorobromomethane extinguishing agents. Assure that portable fire extinguishers are maintained in a fully charged and operable condition and kept in their designated places at all times except during use. The employer shall inspect fire extinguishers monthly and should do an annual maintenance check. The employer shall record the annual maintenance date and retain this record for one year after the last entry, or for the life of the shell, whichever is less.

Introduction

There is a long and tragic history of workplace fires in this country. One of the most notable was the fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in New York City in 1911, in which nearly 150 women and young girls died because of locked fire exits and inadequate fire extinguishing systems. History repeated itself several years ago in the fire in Hamlet, North Carolina, where 25 workers died in a fire in a poultry processing plant. It appears that here, too, there were problems with fire exits and extinguishing systems. PDF: https://player.360training.com/ICPfilesystem/PersistentAssets/551309/843249/Haz40_m19_Workplace_fires_records_v2.pdf

Fixed System: Water Spray & Foam Section 1910.163

This scene applies to all fixed extinguishing systems, using water or foam solution as the extinguishing agent, installed to meet a particular OSHA standard. Specific requirements: Designed to be effective on particular area or equipment Example 1 - Example: The employer shall assure that foam and water spray systems are designed to be effective in at least controlling fire in the protected area or on protected equipment. Drainage directed away from employees or egress path Example 2 - Example: The employer shall assure that drainage of water spray systems is directed away from areas where employees are working and that no emergency egress is permitted through the drainage path.

Fire Detection Systems

This scene focuses on all automatic fire detection systems installed to meet the requirements of a particular OSHA standard.

See also: General Industry (29 CFR 1910)

1910 Subpart E, Exit Routes, Emergency Action Plans, and Fire Prevention Plans [related topic page] 1910.35, Compliance with NFPA 101-2000, Life Safety Code 1910.36, Design and construction requirements for exit routes 1910.37, Maintenance, safeguards, and operational features for exit routes 1910.38, Emergency action plans 1910.39, Fire prevention plans MORE ABOUT: 1910 Subpart L, Fire Protection 1910.155, Scope, application and definitions applicable to this subpart 1910.156, Fire brigades 1910.157, Portable fire extinguishers 1910.158, Standpipe and hose systems 1910.159, Automatic sprinkler systems 1910.160, Fixed extinguishing systems, general 1910.161, Fixed extinguishing systems, dry chemical 1910.162, Fixed extinguishing systems, gaseous agent 1910.163, Fixed extinguishing systems, water spray and foam 1910.164, Fire detection systems 1910.165, Employee alarm systems Appendix A, Fire Protection Appendix B, National Consensus Standards Appendix C, Fire Protection references for further information Appendix D, Availability of publications incorporated by reference in section 1910.156 fire brigades Appendix E, Test methods for protective clothing Construction Industry (29 CFR 1926) 1926 Subpart C, General Safety and Health Provisions 1926.24, Fire protection and prevention 1926.34, Means of egress 1926.35, Employee emergency action plans 1926 Subpart F, Fire protection and prevention 1926.150, Fire protection 1926.151, Fire prevention 1926.152, Flammable and combustible liquids 1926.153, Liquefied petroleum gas (LP-Gas) 1926.154, Temporary heating devices 1926.155, Definitions applicable to this subpart

Number, Location, and Spacing of Detectors

Based on design data from multiple sources: The employer shall assure that the number, spacing, and location of fire detectors is based upon design data obtained from field experience, or tests, engineering surveys, the manufacturer's recommendations, or a recognized testing laboratory listing.

Must employers develop emergency action plans?

Almost every business is required to have an emergency action plan (EAP). If fire extinguishers are required or provided in your workplace, and if anyone will be evacuating during a fire or other emergency, then OSHA's [29 CFR 1910.157] requires you to have an EAP. The only exemption to this is if you have an in-house fire brigade in which every employee is trained and equipped to fight fires, and consequently, no one evacuates. When required, employers must develop emergency action plans that: Describe the routes for workers to use and procedures to follow. Account for all evacuated employees. Remain available for employee review. Include procedures for evacuating disabled employees. Address evacuation of employees who stay behind to shut down critical plant equipment. Include preferred means of alerting employees to a fire emergency. Provide for an employee alarm system throughout the workplace. Require an alarm system that includes voice communication or sound signals such as bells, whistles, or horns. Make the evacuation signal known to employees. Ensure emergency training. Require employer review of the plan with new employees and with all employees whenever the plan is changed.

Safety Procedures - Class B Fires: Flammable Liquids or Gases

Consider nonflammable substitutes for cleaners Ensure solvent tanks have fusible links on covers Only refuel equipment in well ventilated areas Properly store flammable liquids Use flammable liquids only in well ventilated areas Ensure storage drums are properly grounded Restrict welding and cutting to authorized areas

What should employers do to protect workers from fire hazards?

Employers should train workers about fire hazards in the workplace and about what to do in a fire emergency. If you want your workers to evacuate, you should train them about how to escape. Just as, if you expect your workers to use firefighting equipment, you should give them appropriate equipment and train them to use the equipment safely. More About: See Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 1910 Subparts E and L; and Part 1926 Subparts C and F.

The Fire Triangle

In order to understand how fire extinguishers work, you first need to know a little bit about fire. Four things must be present at the same time in order to produce fire: Enough oxygen to sustain combustion NOTE: Oxygen The fuel air mixture must be right. People need 19 percent oxygen in the air to live. Fire only needs 16 percent oxygen to burn. A source of ignition/heat that can generate heat and raise the material to its ignition temperature NOTE: Ignition/Heat Sources of ignition that generate heat and raise the material to its ignition temperature can be: Electrical Chemical Thermal Radioactive Some sort of fuel or combustible material NOTE: Fuel Fuel can be either: Solid Liquid Gas The chemical, exothermic reaction that is called fire

Safety Procedures - Class C Fires: Electrical Equipment

Inspect wiring and insulation frequently Ensure motors are kept clean and lubricated Be cognizant of unusual odors Ensure outlets and connections are not overloaded Never misuse fuses, look for correct rating Keep motors free of dust and excess grease Ensure machinery is properly maintained

Safety Procedures - Class A Fires: Ordinary Combustibles

Keep storage and working areas free of trash Place oily rags in covered containers Control smoking in the area Limit sources of possible ignition Keep passages and fire doors clear at all times Know the locations of fire extinguishers

Sprinkler Alarms

On all sprinkler systems having more than twenty (20) sprinklers, the employer shall assure that a local water flow alarm is provided which sounds an audible signal on the premises upon water flow through the system equal to the flow from a single sprinkler.

Selection and Distribution

Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided for employee use. They should be selected and distributed based on the classes of anticipated workplace fires and on the size and degree of hazard that would affect their use.

Portable Fire Extinguishers Section 1910.157

Scope and Application Requirements The requirements of this section apply to the placement, use, maintenance, and testing of portable fire extinguishers provided for the use of employees. Paragraph (d) of section 1910.157 does not apply to extinguishers provided for employee use on the outside of workplace buildings or structures. Where extinguishers are provided but are not intended for employee use and the employer has an emergency action plan and a fire prevention plan, which meets the requirements of 1910.38, then only the requirements of paragraphs (e) and (f) of section 1910.157 apply. Noteworthy - Exemptions: Employees not required to operate fire extinguishers Total evacuation, emergency action, and fire prevention plan w/o fire extinguishers exempts employer Distribution requirements and fire brigades

Employers must position extinguishers around this work place based on ________.

The anticipated degree of hazard which would necessitate their use

Restore to normal condition ASAP after testing or activation

The employer shall assure that all devices and equipment constructed and installed to comply with this Standard are approved for the purpose for which they are intended.

General Requirements

The employee alarm system should: Provide warning for actions required by emergency action plan. The employee alarm system shall provide warning for necessary emergency action as called for in the emergency action plan, or for reaction time for safe escape of employees from the workplace or the immediate work area, or both. Have an alarm that can be heard or seen. The employee alarm shall be capable of being perceived above ambient noise or light levels by all employees in the affected portions of the workplace. Tactile devices may be used to alert those employees who would not otherwise be able to recognize the audible or visual alarm. Be distinctive and recognizable. The employee alarm shall be distinctive and recognizable as a signal to evacuate the work area or to perform actions designated under the emergency action plan. Employees should be informed of preferred means of reporting emergencies. The employer shall explain to each employee the preferred means of reporting emergencies, such as manual pull box alarms, public address systems, radio, or telephones. The employer shall post emergency telephone numbers near telephones, or employee notice boards, and other conspicuous locations when telephones serve as a means of reporting emergencies.

Automatic Sprinkler Systems: Section 1910.159

The requirements of this section apply to all automatic sprinkler systems installed to meet a particular OSHA standard. All automatic sprinkler designs used to comply with this Standard shall provide the necessary discharge patterns, densities, and water flow characteristics for complete coverage in a particular workplace or zoned subdivision of the workplace. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in workplaces, but not required by OSHA, are exempt from the requirements of this section.

Lesson Description

This lesson, Fire Protection, outlines OSHA requirements regarding both portable and stationary fire extinguishing systems. After a brief history of why OSHA-mandated fire protection procedures have been established, students are introduced to the fundamentals of the fire triangle, how fires are classified, types of fire extinguishers (FEs), and how to use FEs correctly. Furthermore, different types of stationary fire protection systems are reviewed. Finally, fire detection systems and employee alarm systems are discussed, along with a focus on the employer's responsibility to properly train workers, and position, maintain, and test fire protection systems.

Fixed System: Dry Chemical Section 1910.161

This section applies to all fixed extinguishing systems, using dry chemical as the extinguishing agent, installed to meet a particular OSHA standard. These systems shall also comply with 1910.160. Fixed systems installed to meet OSHA standard include: Dry-chemical compatible with foam and wetting agents. The employer may not mix together dry chemical extinguishing agents of different compositions. The employer shall assure that dry chemical systems are refilled with the chemical stated on the approval nameplate or an equivalent compatible material. Pre-discharge alarm. When dry chemical discharge can obscure vision, the employer shall provide a pre-discharge employee alarm which complies with 1910.165 and which will give employees time to safely exit from the discharge area prior to system discharge. Automatic actuation. The employer shall sample the dry chemical supply of all but stored pressure systems at least annually to assure that the dry chemical supply is free of moisture which can cause the supply to cake or form lumps.

Training and Education

Where the employer has provided portable fire extinguishers for employee use in the workplace, the employer should also provide an educational program to familiarize employees with the general principles of fire extinguisher use and the hazards involved with beginning stage fire fighting. The employer shall provide the following: Initial and annual training The required training upon initial assignment to the designated group of employees and at least annually, thereafter