Toolbox 10- Prevent Fire

by: desertknightfm Rhojel 

A fire on the job can have devastating results. It can damage property and injure or even kill people. Yet every fire can be prevented.

To prevent on – job fires:

·         Follow Safety Procedures

Handle flammables with extreme care. Be aware of the flammables in your area and know their hazards. Become familiar with all required safety procedures and follow them. For example, use approved containers to store and transport flammables, wear proper personal protective equipment, avoid spills and drips, and follow all specified disposal procedures.

·         Inspect Equipment

The equipment and machinery you use should be inspected routinely to make certain that they are working properly. All fire fighting equipment should be checked regularly to ensure it is in good condition.

·         Practice Good Housekeeping

Always practice good housekeeping. Conduct routine inspection of your work area to ensure that all flammable materials are properly identified and in approved containers, excess flammables are removed, and fire exit are not blocked by materials or equipment.

·         Proper Storage of Flammable Liquids

We are all aware of the rigorous safety precautions at bulk plants, where million of gallons of      flammable products are stored. But even a small quantity of a flammable liquid like gasoline can be the source fire or explosion. It is important therefore to follow correct safety procedures around flammable liquids, including using the right containers to store and dispense them.

Portable ‘safety cans’ are available which are specially designed for handling small quantities of flammable liquids (from 1 pint to 5 gallons). Safety cans should be marked as having been approved by a recognized testing laboratory.

Approved containers have the following safety features:

·         A SPRING ACTION COVER. This has three vital safety functions: (1) it provides over-pressure relief, (2) it seals the containers against leakage, and (3) it minimizes evaporation and escape of vapors. The cover is designed to release pressure between 3 and 5 psi (pound per square inch). Rising temperatures may cause pressure build up to occur, the cap open to vent excess vapors in small controlled amounts, which can dissipate harmlessly into atmosphere.

·         A FLAME ARRESTER. This is the form of a wire screen located in the spout of the container. It is designed to prevent the vapor in the can igniting from outside heat source (for example, welding sparks or a lighted cigarette). To be effective, the flame arrester screen should fit properly and be held in place securely.

As well as fire and explosion hazards, these containers protect against health hazards containing vapors. Gasoline vapors in concentration of 1-2 percent can cause fatal unconsciousness, and concentration in excess of 2.4 percent can be fatal.

Safety cans should be stored safely in well-ventilated locations, and away from heat sources.

Proper storage also means proper labeling. Each container should be clearly labeled to identify its contents. In addition, containers should carry warning labels reading: Danger – Flammable – Keep Away from Heat, Sparks, and Open Flames. Keep Closed When Not In Use.

      FIRE EASY TO PREVENT … HARD TO FIGHT