Fire protection

Fire protection and prevention safety measures and regulations are essential for maintaining safety in the workplace. These measures include having a fire safety plan, fire protection systems, and training programs. [4] [4]

A fire safety plan is a detailed document outlining all aspects of fire safety for a specific building or property, including evacuation procedures, fire prevention, and methods to minimize fire damage. [5] [5]

Key components of fire protection and prevention include:

• Fire extinguishers: Must be readily accessible and rated for the specific fire hazards present.
• Sprinkler systems: Should be installed and maintained in accordance with applicable standards, with regular inspections and testing.
• Fire alarm systems: Must be tested at least annually to ensure proper operation.
• Emergency Action Plan: Employers should establish an alarm system, such as a telephone system or siren, to alert employees on the site and the local fire department in case of an emergency.
• Fire Prevention Plan: If your workplace has 11 or more employees, does it have a written fire-prevention plan?

[2] [3] [3] [7] Employers are responsible for developing and maintaining an effective fire protection and prevention program at the job site throughout all phases of work. This includes ensuring the availability of required fire protection and suppression equipment. [1] [1]

Suitable fire control devices, such as small hose or portable fire extinguishers, must be available at locations where flammable or combustible liquids are stored. [2]

In sprinklered buildings, the automatic sprinkler system in rooms containing spray application operations should conform to specific articles and be located to provide water distribution throughout the entire booth. [6] [6]

A fire prevention plan should:

• Describe the types of fire protection equipment and systems available.
• Establish practices and procedures to control potential fire hazards and ignition sources.
• Ensure employees are aware of the fire hazards of the materials and processes to which they are exposed.

[7] [7] [7] For fire extinguishers, it is important to ensure that:

• Portable fire extinguishers are provided in adequate numbers and types.
• Fire extinguishers are mounted in readily accessible locations.
• Fire extinguishers are recharged regularly, with dates noted on the inspection tags.
• Employees are trained to use fire extinguishers and fire protection procedures, or trained to immediately evacuate the building in a fire emergency if not trained to use extinguishers.

[7] [7] [7] [7] [7] Suitable fire extinguishing equipment must be provided at flammable liquid storage locations, with at least one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of not less than 20-B units located nearby. [2] [2]

Specific fire protection measures include:

• Preparing procedures for evacuation and response.
• Including building plans marked for fire exits, extinguishers, alarm points, and evacuation routes.
• Implementing methods to prevent fires, such as proper storage of items.
• Communicating the fire safety plan and emergency response procedures to all employees and contractors.
• Conducting fire drills at least twice a year and adjusting the plan as necessary.
• Posting emergency numbers and building location near telephones.
• Providing education and training to designated employees on the correct use of fire extinguishers.
• Inspecting fire extinguishers, alarm systems, emergency lighting, and sprinkler systems monthly or as per the Fire Code.

[4] [4] [4] [4] [4] [4] [4] [4]