OSHA Guidelines For Fire Extinguishers

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Morro Bay / King City knows that the proper use of fire extinguishers can prevent fire from destroying lives.

Owning a fire extinguisher is not enough.  The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) requires that employers train their employees how and when to use fire extinguishers. They must provide the training shortly after the employee is hired, and then every year thereafter.

OSHA does not allow untrained employees to use a fire extinguisher.

OSHA also requires monthly inspections of the fire extinguishers.

Fire extinguishers have to be placed where they cannot be moved or damaged..

The carrying handle should be 3-¹/₂ to 5 feet above the floor.

Employees must know when to use fire extinguishers.

SERVPRO of Morro Bay / King City suggests asking yourself these questions regarding fire extinguishers.  

• Have I pulled the fire alarm?
• Is the fire extinguisher easy to reach?
• Do I know how to use it?
• Is the fire contained in a small area?
• Is the smoke non-toxic?
• Can everyone get out?
• Do I have an escape route?

If you can answer “yes” to all of the questions, it is reasonable to use the fire extinguisher.

SERVPRO of Morro Bay / King City reminds you that fire is fast. If you cannot contain it within 30 seconds, get everyone out of the area. Call 9-1-1 once you are outside.

Links:

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/emergencypreparedness/index.html

https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.157

https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/fire-and-life-safety-equipment/fire-extinguishers