Write a toolbox talk on FIRE PROTECTION 1. Fire Extinguishers. a. At least one 2A-rated fire extinguisher must be available on every jobsite. b. Keep at least one 5 BC-rated fire extinguishers in the cab or within 25' of a crane or excavator and keep one within 75' of diesel and gasoline refueling areas. c. Inspect fire extinguishers every 12 months and label them with an appropriate inspection tag. 2. Portable Fuel Containers. a. Store and transport flammable liquids (i. e. gasoline) in approved safety cans having a springclosing lid, flashback arrestor screen, spout cover and is designed to safely relieve internal pressure. 3. Smoking and Storage a. Do not smoke around flammable, combustible materials or any areas posted with “No Smoking" signs (i. e. refueling stations). b. Do not place or store flammable or combustible material near open flames, sparks, or other ignition source. 4. Gasoline-powered equipment a. Shut engines off during refueling. b. Do not use gasoline-powered equipment within closed buildings. 5. Propane/LP Storage a. Store tanks/cylinders in an upright position with caps on. b. Secure cylinders with a chain, wire or suitable rack. Small portable propane tanks that cannot fall over do not have to be secured. c. Do not store tanks/cylinders in buildings or poorly ventilated areas.
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Published by SALUSFor a construction jobsite toolbox talk, emphasize that fire protection starts with a site fire prevention program, worker orientation, good housekeeping, control of ignition sources, and ready access to the correct extinguishers. Firefighting equipment must be conspicuously located, accessible, periodically inspected, and defective equipment replaced immediately. Workers should know extinguisher locations, understand extinguisher limitations, and use extinguishers only on small incipient-stage fires while maintaining a clear escape path. [14] [14] [11]
Recommended toolbox talk points for jobsites:
- Review the fire triangle: heat, fuel, and oxygen; prevention focuses on removing or controlling one of these elements.
- Keep the site clean: remove combustible debris promptly, store oily rags and solvent-contaminated waste in covered metal containers, and do not allow rubbish to accumulate.
- Control ignition sources: manage hot work, temporary heaters, smoking, electrical hazards, batteries/chargers, and fuel transfer operations.
- Train workers on extinguisher locations, extinguisher classes, PASS use, alarm/reporting procedures, evacuation routes, and who calls emergency services.
- Post and enforce a fire plan and emergency procedures as part of site orientation.
[2] [2] [13] For extinguisher ratings and placement, OSHA requires at least one extinguisher rated not less than 2A on each floor, and in multistory buildings at least one must be adjacent to a stairway. A 2A extinguisher is also required for each 3,000 square feet of combustible building area, with travel distance not exceeding 100 feet. Where more than 5 gallons of flammable or combustible liquid or 5 pounds of flammable gas are being used, OSHA requires a 10B extinguisher within 50 feet. For flammable-liquid storage and fueling/service areas, referenced construction standards commonly require 20-B or 20 BC extinguishers within specified distances. Your stated company minimums of a 2A extinguisher on every jobsite, a 5 BC extinguisher in a crane or excavator cab or within 25 feet, and an extinguisher within 75 feet of diesel and gasoline refueling areas are good site rules, but they should not be treated as a substitute for the stricter OSHA/WAC/MIOSHA minimums where those standards apply. [6] [14] [6] [5]
Extinguisher class selection:
- Class A: ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cardboard, and plastics.
- Class B: flammable liquids, gasoline, diesel, oil, grease, solvents, and similar fuels.
- Class C: energized electrical equipment.
- Multipurpose ABC extinguishers are commonly suitable for mixed construction hazards, but verify the label and hazard class before use.
[11] [11] [11] Inspection and tagging should include monthly visual checks and a documented annual maintenance inspection at intervals not to exceed 12 months. Each extinguisher should have a current annual inspection tag, be fully charged, have the pin and tamper seal in place, show no hose or cylinder damage, and remain in its designated unobstructed location. Any defective extinguisher should be removed from service and replaced. [4] [7] [12]
Flammable liquids must be stored and handled only in approved containers. For small quantities, use approved metal safety cans or DOT-approved containers; safety cans used for dispensing flammable liquids should be kept at the point of use. Best practice consistent with OSHA/NFPA guidance is to use safety cans with a self-closing or spring-closing lid, flame arresting screen/flashback arrestor, and spill-resistant spout. Keep containers closed when not in use, clearly labeled, and never store flammables in exits, stairways, or areas used for egress. [1] [13] [8] [1]
No smoking must be enforced around flammable or combustible materials, fueling operations, and liquid storage or dispensing areas. Post conspicuous No Smoking or No Smoking/Open Flame signs where flammables are used or stored. Store fuels away from open flames, sparks, hot work, heaters, and other ignition sources, and keep storage areas free of unnecessary combustibles and debris. [1] [10] [8]
For gasoline-powered equipment, refuel only outdoors or in well-ventilated areas with the engine shut off and cooled down. Do not refuel near sparks, welding, smoking, open flames, hot exhaust components, or other ignition sources. Clean up spills immediately. When transferring fuel between containers, bond metal containers together or keep them in contact to reduce static ignition risk. Gasoline vapors are heavier than air and can collect in low areas, so gasoline-powered equipment should not be operated or refueled inside enclosed buildings or poorly ventilated spaces because of both fire/explosion and carbon monoxide hazards. [9] [9] [1] [3]
For propane or LP cylinders, store cylinders upright, with valve protection caps in place when not connected for use, and secure them to prevent tipping, falling, or vehicle damage. Keep them out of buildings unless specifically allowed for use, separate them from ignition sources and heat, and store them in a well-ventilated area. Do not store LP gas tanks inside buildings as a general construction rule. Post No Smoking signs at LPG storage, and protect storage areas from vehicle impact. [15] [12] [13] [16]
Practical jobsite expectations consistent with OSHA-style fire prevention guidance:
- Provide at least one 2A extinguisher on every jobsite and on each floor where required; keep it visible, accessible, and protected from damage or freezing.
- At fuel use, storage, and refueling points, provide the correct Class B/C extinguisher and place it close enough for rapid access without entering the hazard area.
- Place a 5 BC extinguisher in crane or excavator cabs or within 25 feet if that is your company rule, but verify whether a higher rating is required by the governing standard or hazard level.
- Inspect extinguishers monthly, complete and tag annual maintenance every 12 months, and replace defective units immediately.
- Use only approved fuel containers and safety cans; keep lids closed, label contents, and never use improvised containers.
- Prohibit smoking and open flames around fueling, storage, and dispensing areas; post signs and enforce the rule.
- Refuel gasoline-powered equipment only with engines off, cooled, and in ventilated areas; clean spills immediately and do not use gasoline-powered equipment in enclosed buildings.
- Store propane cylinders upright, capped, secured, ventilated, and protected from impact and heat.
Sources used for this answer
[1] Safety Briefings: General Industry Topics
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# Emergency Action Plans Purpose: Ensure employees evacuate safely in the event of an emergency. ## Safe Practices: ➤ Incorporate emergency procedures within an emergency action plan. ➤ Procedures for reporting fires and other emergencies. ➤ Emergency evacuation procedures, type of evacuation and evacuation route assignments. ➤ Procedures for staff remaining to operate critical plant operations before evacuating. ➤ Procedures to account for all employees after evacuation. ➤ Rescue and medical duties for employees who are supposed to perform these duties. ➤ Ensure employee alarm system can be heard above ambient noise or light levels, is distinctive or recognizable, tested every two months, and unobstructed and readily available ➤ Names/job titles of employees to contact for more information about the plan or an explanation of assigned job duties. ➤ Procedures established for sounding alarms in the workplace. ➤ Employees trained initially upon employment, whenever duties change and whenever plan changes. # Fire Prevention Hazards: Burns and smoke inhalation. ## Safe Practices: ➤ Ensure fire extinguishers are provided near all welding, soldering and other sources of ignition. ➤ Ensure fire extinguishers are available and readily accessible in case of an emergency. ➤ Ensure that portable fire extinguishers are periodically inspected and maintained in accordance with Maintenance and Use of Portable Fire Extinguishers, National Fire Protection Association document NFPA 10A. ➤ Ensure that flammable and combustible materials are not stored in stairways or exits. ➤ Ensure that adequate ventilation is provided in areas where paints, solvents or other flammable materials are being applied. ➤ Ensure that gasoline and other flammable liquids are stored in safety cans or in an approved flammable storage cabinet or room. ➤ Ensure that flammable liquid leaks or spills are cleaned up immediately. ➤ Smoking prohibited near operations that constitute a fire ha…
[2] Self-inspection checklist: Flammable and combustible materials
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Self-inspection checklist ## Flammable and combustible materials - Is combustible scrap, debris, and waste stored in covered metal receptacles and removed from the work site promptly? - Are proper storage methods used to minimize the risk of fire and spontaneous combustion? Are approved containers and tanks used for the storage and handling of flammable liquids? - Are connections tight on all drums and flammable liquid piping (vapor and liquid)? - Are all flammable liquids kept in closed containers when not in use? - Are bulk drums of flammable liquids grounded and bonded to containers during dispensing? - Do storage rooms for flammable liquids have explosion-proof lights? - Do storage rooms for flammables liquids have mechanical or gravity ventilation? - Are safe practices followed when liquid petroleum gas is stored, handled, and used? - Are liquefied petroleum storage tanks guarded to prevent damage from vehicles? - Are all solvent wastes and flammable liquids kept in fire-resistant, covered containers until they are removed from the work site? Is vacuuming used rather than blowing or sweeping combustible dust when possible? - Are fire separators placed between stacked containers of combustibles or flammables ensure their support and stability? to - Are fuel-gas cylinders and oxygen cylinders separated by distance, fire-resistant barriers, or other means while in storage? - Are fire extinguishers provided for the type of materials they will extinguish, and placed in areas where they are to be used? - CLASS A: Ordinary combustible materials fires - CLASS B: Flammable liquids, gas, or grease fires - CLASS C: Energized-electrical equipment fires - 1 -
[3] Toolbox Talk: Portable Fire Extinguishers
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# PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS ## Date Published: 05/12/2025 Fire extinguishers can be essential in preventing a small fire from growing, but they are not recommended for use against large or rapidly spreading fires. In case of a fire, the most important thing to do is to get yourself to safety and immediately call the proper authorities to fight the fire. When used appropriately, a portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or allowing safe egress for escape. However, it's important to note that portable extinguishers intended for home use are not designed to fight large or spreading fires. Even when dealing with small fires, it's essential to use them only under certain conditions: • The operator should know how to use the extinguisher with a few exemptions as defined by WAC [redacted identifier] Portable Fire Extinguishers. • The extinguisher must be fully charged, within easy reach, and in working order. • Some models are unsuitable for use on grease or electrical fires. ## Selection of Extinguishers When choosing a fire extinguisher, it is important to select the right one for the type of fire you may encounter. Look for an extinguisher that is labeled with the type of fire it is intended to extinguish. You should also ensure that the extinguisher is large enough to put out a small fire or allow safe egress. It is recommended to choose an extinguisher that has been tested and certified by an independent laboratory. There are three classes of fires, and each class requires a specific type of extinguisher. Fire extinguishers are labeled with standard symbols for the classes of fires they can put out. If you see a red slash through any of the symbols, it means that the extinguisher cannot be used on that class of fire. If a symbol is missing, it means that the extinguisher has not been tested on that particular class of fire. Remember that most portable extinguishers discharge completely in as few as eight seconds,…
[4] Toolbox Talk: Fire Safety
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CPWR TOOLBOX THE CENTER FOR CONSTRUCTION RESEARCH AND TRAINING TALK Fires and burns are the fifth most common cause of accidental injury deaths in the United States. Workers need to be aware of potential fire hazards at the worksite and how to protect themselves. ## Tim's Story Tim was painting the walls of an attic in a three-story house. A fire began in the basement due to bad wiring in a light socket near the ceiling. There was no working smoke detector in the house, and because Tim was in the attic, he did not smell the smoke until it was too late. Tim was not able to make it out and he died. - How could this incident have been avoided? - What are possible fire hazards at your worksite? ## Remember This ➤ Make sure you have a ventilation system, especially where paints, solvents, or other flammable materials are being used. # Fire Safety ➤ Before you begin work, make sure there are working smoke alarms in areas under construction. ➤ Make sure fire extinguishers are available that are the right class for the fire hazards on your job: 。 Class A for wood, paper, cardboard, plastic, etc. 。 Class B for combustible liquid such as gasoline, oil, and kerosene; these contain a dry chemical. - o Class C for electrical fires 。 Combination extinguishers for combustible metal; these contain an inert dry material. - Make sure you have at least one extinguisher of the appropriate class for each type of fire hazard. ➤ Make sure you know where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them. ➤ Keep flammable and combustible materials away from portable heaters and keep the area around them clear. How can we stay safe today? What will we do at the worksite to prevent fires? 1. 2. OSHA Regulation: 29 CFR 1926.1000 ©2017, CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training. All rights reserved. CPWR is the research and training arm of NABTU. Production of this document was supported by cooperative agreement OH 009762 from the National Institute for Occu…
[5] Construction Safety Orders (CAL/OSHA)
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This information is provided free of charge by the Department of Industrial Relations from its web site at www.dir.ca.gov. These regulations are for the convenience of the user and no representation or warranty is made that the information is current or accurate. See full disclaimer at https://www.dir.ca.gov/od_pub/disclaimer.html. Subchapter 4. Construction Safety Orders Article 36. Fire Protection and Prevention Return to index New query ## §1936. Service and Refueling Areas. (a) Flammable liquids shall be stored in approved closed containers, in approved tanks located underground, or in approved aboveground portable tanks. (b) Dispensing devices for Category 1 or 2 flammable liquids, or Category 3 flammable liquids with a flashpoint below 100 F (37.8 o C) shall be of approved type. The dispensing nozzle shall be of an approved automatic- closing type without a latch-open device. (c) Underground tanks taken out of service shall be safeguarded or disposed of by any one of the three following means: (1) Placed in a "temporarily out of service" condition. Tanks should be rendered "temporarily out of service" only when it is planned that they will be returned to active service within a reasonable period or pending removal or abandonment within 90 days. (2) Abandoned in place with proper safeguarding to render them inactive to explosion and/or collapse. (3) Removed. (d) For emergency power cutoff, a clearly identified and easily accessible switch(es) or circuit breaker(s) shall be provided at a location remote from dispensing devices, including remote pumping systems, to shut off the power to all dispensing devices in the event of an emergency. (e) Heating equipment of an approved type may be installed in the lubrication or service area where there is no dispensing or transferring of Category 1 or 2 flammable liquids or Category 3 flammable liquids with a flashpoint below 100 F (37.8 C) provided the bottom of the heating unit is at least 18 inches above t…
[6] Toolbox Talk: Flammable Liquids
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# FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS Date Posted: 05/12/2025 ## Flammable Liquids Fire prevention is crucial in workplaces that utilize flammable and combustible liquids. Flammable liquids, such as gasoline, acetone, or methanol, are highly susceptible to ignition and burn quickly. These liquids have flashpoints below 100° F. Improper use and storage of flammable liquids have resulted in serious fires that have caused significant property damage and loss of life. Flammable liquids are used in various workplaces and can range from cleaning fluids, paints, and gasoline to more hazardous and volatile liquids. The primary danger from flammable liquids comes from the vapors they emit, rather than the liquid itself. These vapors can ignite and cause fires. The flashpoint is the lowest temperature at which a liquid emits a vapor that can ignite, and it is critical to take precautions to prevent ignition sources from coming into contact with flammable liquids. ## FLAMMABLE LIQUID CONTAINERS & SAFETY CANS According to WAC [redacted identifier], it is mandatory to store flammable liquids only in approved containers. You must use metal safety cans or Department of Transportation (DOT) approved containers for handling and using flammable liquids in quantities of 5 gallons or less. For quantities of one gallon or less, only the original container can be used for storage, use, and handling of flammable liquids. ## INDOOR STORAGE OF FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS Flammable liquids stored inside must not exceed 25 gallons in a room outside an approved storage cabinet. Inside storage of flammable liquids must comply with the following requirements: <table><tr><th>Fire Protection Provided</th><th>Fire Resistance</th><th>Maximum Sq. Ft.</th><th>Total Allowable Quantities in Gallons</th></tr><tr><td>Yes</td><td>2 Hours</td><td>500</td><td>10</td></tr><tr><td>No</td><td>2 Hours</td><td>500</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>Yes</td><td>1 Hour</td><td>150</td><td>5</td></tr><tr><td>No</td><td>1 Hour</td><td>150</…
[7] Residential Construction Checklist
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# Electrical " Prohibit work on new and existing energized (hot) electrical circuits until all power is shut off and a positive Lockout/Tagout System is in place. - Don't use frayed or worn electrical cords or cables. " Use only 3-wire type extension cords designed for hard or junior hard service. (Look for any of the following letters imprinted on the casing: S, ST, SO, STO, SJ, SJT, SJO, SJTO.) ■ Maintain all electrical tools and equipment in safe condition and check regularly for defects. - Remove broken or damaged tools and equipment from the jobsite. - Protect all temporary power (including extension cords) with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Plug into a GFCI-protected temporary power pole, a GFCI protected generator, or use a GFCI extension cord to protect against shocks. - Don't bypass any protective system or device designed to protect employees from contact with electrical current. - Locate and identify overhead electrical power lines. Make sure that ladders, scaffolds, equipment or materials never come within 10 feet of electrical power lines. ## Fire Prevention - Provide fire extinguishers near all welding, soldering, or other sources of ignition. ■ Keep fire extinguishers easy to see and reach in case of an emergency. ■ Provide one fire extinguisher within 100 feet of employees for each 3,000 square feet of building. ■ Don't store flammable or combustible materials in areas used for stairways or exists. - Avoid spraying of paint, solvents, or other types of flammable materials in rooms with poor ventilation. Build-up of fumes and vapors can cause explosions or fires. " Store gasoline and other flammable liquids in a safety can outdoors or in an approved storage facility. - Don't store LP gas tanks inside buildings. - Keep temporary heaters at least 6 feet away from any LP gas container. Ensure that leaks or spills of flammable or combustible materials are cleaned up promptly. 11
[8] Toolbox Talk: Gasoline Handling Safety
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# GASOLINE HANDLING SAFETY SAFETY CAN Date Posted: 09/12/2016 Gasoline can be used on job-sites for some tools and equipment. Improper handling of gasoline increases the workers risk for serious injuries and even fatalities. ## GASOLINE FACTS • Gasoline does not burn. It is the gasoline vapors that burn. - Gasoline evaporates at temperatures as low as 450F below zero. The higher the temperature, the faster it evaporates, and the heavier the buildup of dangerous vapors. • Gasoline vapors are heavier than air and will collect at the lowest point in an area, unless there's adequate air circulation. • An open - flame is not necessary to ignite the gasoline vapors. One spark is all that is needed. - Gasoline can irritate the skin and cause a rash that can become infected. If you get it on your skin, wash it off with water right away. • If you get gasoline on your clothing, remove your clothing immediately. You could become a human torch. • - Do not use gasoline to clean tools or parts, or to remove grease from your hands. • Gasoline has an auto-ignition temperature of 536 degrees F. Watch for contact with high temperature items like exhausts and welded parts. ## GASOLINE STORAGE Gasoline must be stored in approved, metal containers As a reference, see WAC 296-24-[redacted postal code](2) (a). Only approved containers and portable tanks shall be used. Metal containers and portable tanks meeting the requirements of and containing products authorized by Chapter 1, Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations - October 1, 1972, (regulations issued by the hazardous materials regulations board, department of transportation), shall be deemed acceptable. ## TRANSFERRING GASOLINE FROM ONE CONTAINER TO ANOTHER Transfer gasoline from one container to another only in areas free from open flames, sparks, and where there is proper ventilation. Clean up any spills immediately. Static electricity can be generated while pouring gasoline from one container to another.…
[9] Construction Safety and Health Standards (MIOSHA)
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# FIRE PROTECTION (cont.) (7) In addition to the requirements of this rule, fire extinguishers shall be supplied as follows: (a) Not less than 1 portable fire extinguisher that has a rating of not less than 20 BC units shall be located as follows: (i) Outside of, but not more than 10 feet from, a door opening to a room used for the storage of more than 60 gallons of flammable liquids. (ii) Not less than 25 feet, nor more than 75 feet, from an outside storage area. (iii) On each tank truck or other vehicle used to transport or dispense flammable liquids. (iv) A fire extinguisher, rated not less than 10B, shall be provided within 50 feet of wherever more than 5 gallons of flammable or combustible liquids or pounds of flammable gas are being used on the jobsite. This requirement does not apply to the integral fuel tanks of motor vehicles. 5 (b) Each service or fueling area shall have at least 1 portable fire extinguisher which has not less than a 20 BC unit rating and which is located within 75 feet of each pump, dispenser, underground fill opening, and lubricating or service area. (c) Storage locations for liquefied petroleum gas (L.P.G.) shall be provided with at least 1 approved portable fire extinguisher that has a rating of not less than 20 BC. (d) Each site of a hazardous process shall be provided with a portable fire extinguisher of an appropriate size and type. Other means for safety or control may be provided if approved or required by the process. (8) Table 1 may be used in selecting and providing an extinguisher. (9) Table 1 reads as follows: <table><tr><th colspan="3">TABLE 1</th></tr><tr><td>HAZARD</td><td>DESCRIPTION</td><td>EXTINGUISHER TYPE AND CONTENTS</td></tr><tr><td>Class "A" Fire</td><td>Combustible Material</td><td>Loaded stream, Multipurpose dry chemical, Pressure-operated water, Water pump tanks, Water mist, Halon 1211.</td></tr><tr><td>Class "B" Fire</td><td>Flammable Liquids, Gas, Or Grease</td><td>Carbon dioxide, Dry chemical, F…
[10] Flammable and Combustible Liquids Checklist
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# Flammable and Combustible Liquids Checklist (cont.) <table><tr><th>General Storage Inside and Outside Building</th><th>Yes</th><th>No</th></tr><tr><td>37. Is the storage of flammable or combustible liquids prohibited near exits, stairways, or areas normally used for the safe exit of people?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>38. Is the storage of flammable or combustible liquids prohibited in office areas except that required for maintenance and operation of building and operation of equipment? Note: Permitted materials shall be stored in safety cans, in closed metal containers inside storage cabinets, or in an inside storage room that does not open into public areas of the building.</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>39. Are portable fire extinguishers available at locations where flammable or combustible liquids are stored? Note: OSHA requires that at least one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of not less than 20-B units be located not less than 25 feet, nor more than 75 feet, from any flammable liquid storage area located outside.</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>40. Are containers of flammable and combustible liquids closed when not in use?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>41. Are combustible waste materials and residues kept to a minimum, stored in covered metal receptacles, and disposed of daily?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>42. Are flammable and combustible liquids stored in their original container or in an approved safety can?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>43. Unless the original container is designed to be used, are flammable or combustible liquids transferred to an approved safety can prior to use?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>44. Are open flames and smoking prohibited in flammable or combustible liquids storage areas?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>45. Are storage areas for flammable or combustible liquids kept free from combustible materials?</td><td></td><td></td></tr></table> Date of Inspection: <empty> Locatio…
[11] Safety and Health Regulations for Construction (OSHA 29 CFR 1926) - 1926.150 - Fire protection
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# Occupational Safety and Health Administration (cont.) ## Water supply. (cont.) The garden-type hose lines shall be mounted on conventional racks or reels. The number and location of hose racks or reels shall be such that at least one hose stream can be applied to all points in the area. - 1926.150(c)(1)(iv) One or more fire extinguishers, rated not less than 2A, shall be provided on each floor. In multistory buildings, at least one fire extinguisher shall be located adjacent to stairway. 1926.150(c)(1)(v) Extinguishers and water drums, subject to freezing, shall be protected from freezing. - 1926.150(c)(1)(vi) A fire extinguisher, rated not less than 10B, shall be provided within 50 feet of wherever more than 5 gallons of flammable or combustible liquids or 5 pounds of flammable gas are being used on the jobsite. This requirement does not apply to the integral fuel tanks of motor vehicles. - 1926.150(c)(1)(vii) Carbon tetrachloride and other toxic vaporizing liquid fire extinguishers are prohibited. - 1926.150(c)(1)(viii) Portable fire extinguishers shall be inspected periodically and maintained in accordance with Maintenance and Use of Portable Fire Extinguishers, NFPA No. 10A-1970. - 1926.150(c)(1)(ix). Fire extinguishers which have been listed or approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, shall be used to meet the requirements of this subpart. ## 1926.150(c)(1)(x). Table F-1 may be used as a guide for selecting the appropriate portable fire extinguishers.
[12] Toolbox Talk: Portable Fire Extinguishers
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# PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS (cont.) ## Limitations of Fire Extinguishers • It's important to be aware that a dry chemical fire extinguisher, such as the common red "ABC" extinguisher, has limited reach. Therefore, it is essential to know the models used in your work areas and the effective distance they can cover. - The duration of a 10lb to 20lb dry chemical fire extinguisher is between 10 to 25 seconds, depending on the model and weight you are using. • Please note that fire extinguishers are only designed to fight small (incipient stage) fires. Incipient fires are the early stage of a fire when a portable fire extinguisher can extinguish it. ## Inspecting Fire Extinguishers Fire extinguishers should be checked every 30 days to ensure they are in working condition. It is also important to conduct an annual formal inspection of all fire extinguishers on-site and to document these inspections. During inspections, always check the pressure gauge to ensure it is in the green portion of the indicator. If the arrow is in the red area, the fire extinguisher must be tagged out of service until it is recharged. Additionally, confirm that the pin is still in place, as it can get bumped out of position, causing accidental discharge. Lastly, look for damage to the hose (if applicable) and any rust on the container, and make sure the label is in good, readable condition. References WAC [redacted identifier] - Fire Protection WAC [redacted identifier] - Portable Fire Extinguishers 1910.157 - Portable fire extinguishers. | Occupational Safety and Health Administration (osha.gov) eTool: Evacuation Plans and Procedures - Emergency Standards - Portable Fire Extinguishers | Occupational Safety and Health Administration (osha.gov) Fire extinguishers | NFPA
[13] Toolbox Talk: Fire Safety
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# FIRE SAFETY Date Posted: 05/31/2024 On average, between 2016 and 2020, firefighters responded to more than 11 fires a day at buildings under construction in the U.S. Those fires led to an annual average of five civilian deaths, 62 civilian injuries, and over $376 million in direct property damages. Construction site fires create a significant risk of property damage, personal injury, and even death. Structures with wood framing are particularly susceptible to fires. Although steel-frame buildings are just as vulnerable to fire risk, wood-framed facilities are more likely to collapse when on fire. Construction site fires often happen before sprinkler systems and alarms have been installed so that fires can spread with little warning. Since there are reserves of combustible materials, a stray spark or smoldering debris can lead to a large disaster. ## HOW DO FIRES START? Fire is a chemical reaction that requires three elements to be present for the reaction to take place and continue. The three elements are: • Heat or an ignition source • Fuel Oxygen These three elements are typically referred to as the "fire triangle." Fire results from the chemical reaction between the fuel and oxygen in the air. Heat, fuel, and oxygen must combine precisely for a fire start and continue to burn. If one element of the fire triangle is not present or removed, fire will not start or, if already burning, will extinguish. Ignition sources can include any material, equipment, or operation that emits a spark or flame, including apparent items, such as torches, and less obvious items, such as static electricity and grinding operations. to ## COMMON SOURCES OF CONSTRUCTION FIRES Hot work: Hot work operations pose a significant risk because they can introduce ignition sources into many worksite areas. Even several hours after welding, soldering, grinding, or other hot work has been completed, a spark can smolder and ignite combustibles, sometimes after crews have left for the…
[14] Self-inspection checklist: Flammable and combustible materials
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## Flammable and combustible materials (cont.) - If a Halon 1301 fire extinguisher is used, can employees evacuate within the specified time for that extinguisher? - Are appropriate fire extinguishers mounted within 75 feet of outside areas containing flammable liquids, and within 10 feet of any inside storage area for such materials? - Do only trained personnel transfer or withdrawal flammable liquids? - Are fire extinguishers mounted so that employees do not have to travel more than 75 feet for a Class A fire or 50 feet for a Class B fire? - Are employees trained in the use of fire extinguishers? - Are all extinguishers serviced, maintained, and tagged at least yearly? - Do record required monthly checks of extinguishers? - Are all extinguishers fully charged and in their designated places? Are extinguishers free from obstruction or blockage? - Where sprinkler systems are permanently installed, are the nozzle heads directed or arranged so that water will not be sprayed into operating electrical switchboards and equipment? - Are "NO SMOKING" signs posted in areas where flammable or combustible materials are used or stored? - Are "NO SMOKING" signs posted on tanks of liquefied petroleum gas? - Are "NO SMOKING" rules enforced in areas involving storage and use of flammable materials? - Are safety cans used for dispensing flammable liquids? - Are all spills of flammable or combustible liquids cleaned up promptly? -2-
[15] WAC [redacted identifier] Fire protection
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WAC [redacted identifier] Fire protection. (1) General requirements. (a) You must be responsible for development of a fire protection program to be followed throughout all phases of construction and demo- lition work, and you must provide for firefighting equipment as speci- fied in this part. As fire hazards occur, you must not delay in pro- viding necessary equipment. (b) Access to all available firefighting equipment must be main- tained at all times. (c) All firefighting equipment, provided by the employer, must be conspicuously located. (d) All firefighting equipment must be periodically inspected by a competent person, and maintained in operating condition. You must immediately replace defective equipment. (e) As warranted by the project, you must provide a trained and equipped firefighting organization (fire brigade) to assure adequate protection to life. (2) Water supply. (a) You must make available a temporary or permanent water sup- ply, of sufficient volume, duration, and pressure, required to proper- ly operate firefighting equipment as soon as combustible materials ac- cumulate. (b) Where underground water mains are to be provided, they must be installed, completed, and made available for use as soon as practi- cable. (3) Portable firefighting equipment. (a) You must provide a fire extinguisher, rated not less than 2A, for each 3,000 square feet of a combustible building area, or major fraction thereof. Travel distance from any point of the protected area to the nearest fire extinguisher must not exceed a horizontal distance of 100 feet. - Note: One 55-gallon open drum of water with two fire pails may be substituted for a fire extinguisher having a 2A rating. (b) A 1/2-inch diameter garden-type hose line, not to exceed 100 feet in length and equipped with a nozzle, may be substituted for a 2A-rated fire extinguisher, provided it is capable of discharging a minimum of 5 gallons per minute with a minimum hose stream range of 30 feet horizont…
[16] Fire Extinguisher Safety Checklist
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Open source documentSource excerpt
# Fire Extinguisher Safety Checklist <table><tr><th></th><th>Types of Fire Extinguishers</th><th>Yes</th><th>No</th></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Are Class A extinguishers located in areas where there is a potential for fires involving combustible items such as wood and paper?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Are Class B extinguishers located in areas where there is a potential for fires involving flammable liquids such as oil, gasoline or grease?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Are Class C extinguishers located in areas where there is a potential for electrical type fires?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Are Class D extinguishers located in areas where there is a potential for fires involving flammable metals such as sodium, magnesium, etc.?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Do you have the correct type of portable fire extinguishers?</td><td></td><td></td></tr></table> <table><tr><th></th><th>Inspection of Fire Extinguishers</th><th>Yes</th><th>No</th></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Have all fire extinguishers received an annual service inspection by a trained and certified inspection company?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Is an up-to-date annual inspection tag located on each extinguisher?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Has someone been trained within your facility to inspect all extinguishers on a monthly basis?</td><td>ㅁㅁ</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Is the pressure gauge in the “normal” or “green” charged position/range?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Is the pin in the extinguisher and has it been secured with a safety seal?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Does the fire extinguisher have any visible defects such as a damaged hose, leaks, damaged pressure gauge, rust or corrosion etc.?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Is a monthly inspection tag located on each extinguisher?</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Is the individual doing the monthl…
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