Spontaneous Ignition Preventing Spontaneous Ignition Spontaneous ignition can occur without an external flame or spark when combustible materials generate heat through oxidation. If that heat cannot dissipate, temperatures can continue to rise until the material ignites. Proper storage, handling, and housekeeping are essential for preventing these fires. Guide for Discussion How Spontaneous Ignition Occurs Certain...

Springtime Yard & Field Maintenance Safety Springtime yard and field maintenance often brings increased outdoor activity, equipment movement, material handling, and chemical use. Before operations become busy, inspect and organize yards, outdoor shops, storage areas, and field facilities to identify and correct hazards. Guide for Discussion Chemical Storage and Hazard Communication If chemicals are...

What to Do in Case of Fire A fire can spread rapidly, producing intense heat, smoke, and toxic gases. Knowing what to do before a fire occurs can prevent injuries and save lives. Employees should be familiar with the company's Emergency Action Plan, evacuation routes, alarm procedures, and designated assembly areas. Sound...

Emergency! Where’s the Fire Extinguisher? A fire can grow rapidly. Knowing where fire extinguishers are located, what type to use, and when to evacuate instead of attempting to fight a fire can prevent a small emergency from becoming a serious injury or fatality. Imagine walking toward the maintenance shop and smelling something...

Using Portable Fire Extinguishers Portable fire extinguishers can help control a small fire before it becomes a major emergency—but only when the correct extinguisher is used by a trained employee under safe conditions. Employees should never place themselves in danger or allow firefighting efforts to delay evacuation. The first priorities during a...

Foundry Worker Safety Foundry operations expose workers to a combination of serious hazards, including molten metal, extreme heat, fires and explosions, hazardous fumes, respirable crystalline silica, machinery, noise, and material-handling hazards. Employees must be properly trained and follow established procedures for the specific equipment, metals, and processes they perform. Personal Protective Equipment PPE...

Fire Protection and Control Fires can develop quickly and may result in serious injuries, fatalities, and property damage. Good housekeeping, proper storage of combustible and flammable materials, safe electrical practices, and prompt correction of fire hazards can significantly reduce the risk. Employees should know how to report a fire, when to evacuate,...

Workplace Fire Safety The potential for fire exists in nearly every workplace. Good housekeeping, proper storage, maintained electrical equipment, and knowledge of emergency procedures can significantly reduce the risk of fires and their consequences. Employees should understand common fire hazards, know how to prevent them, and be prepared to respond appropriately if...

Fire Extinguishers Portable fire extinguishers are an important part of workplace fire protection. Even when a facility is equipped with automatic sprinklers or other fire-protection systems, portable extinguishers may provide a means of controlling a small, incipient-stage fire before it spreads. However, extinguishers are effective only when they are readily accessible, properly...