Workplaces have received a mandate from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration mandating that employers put in place fire prevention and protection programs. There are various forms of safety devices when it comes to enhancing the protection of occupants, including intercom systems, fire alarms and hazard fire suppression systems. These are all dependable forms of warning and protection when it comes to the occurrence of fire.
However, one device that is recommended and required to provide protection in these emergencies is the fire extinguisher. Iowa businesses and institutions should have proper training in the use of fire extinguishers to help ensure proper use in times of fire emergencies.
Proper Instruction
Proper preparation and prevention are very important when it comes to fire safety. It is important to have a fire extinguisher in the right location and to know that location in advance. Life and death are at stake in these situations. It is important for those who will potentially use fire extinguishers to receive proper guidance on its use with classroom and instruction provided.
After the training is completed, employees will have good familiarity with the proper use of fire extinguishers and the hazards that can occur when fighting fires. It is a good idea to combine the fire extinguisher training with First Aid training as well, which may be offered at the same time.
Class A, B and C Fires
There are three classes of fires that are important to learn about and understand. Class “A” fires involve materials that consist of burning embers such as paper, wood, rubber, cloth and plastic. Multi-use fire extinguishers using air pressurized water are adequate for these types of fires.
Class “B” fires are those that involve the burning of grease or flammable liquids. These fires require carbon dioxide or dry chemical extinguishers. Class “C” fires involve the burning of electrical equipment, i.e. electrical fires. CO2 extinguishers are a good choice for electrical fires – they don’t leave a harmful residue on household electrical equipment such as televisions, etc.
Be sure to contact a reliable provider of fire extinguisher training in order to enhance the fire safety awareness and capabilities of your employees.
