study guide for obtaining the: fire safety awareness...

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Study Guide

for Obtaining the:

Fire Safety Awareness Ticket

Construction and Specialized Workers’ Training Society

120-19092 26th Avenue

Surrey, B.C. V3Z 3V7

Phone: 604-538-5101

Toll Free: 1-800-661-3001

Email: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

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The information contained in this reference material is distributed as a guide only. It is current to

the best of our knowledge as to the revision date, having been compiled from sources believed

to be reliable and to represent the best current opinion on the subject.

No warranty, guarantee, or representatives are made by the author, as to the absolute

correctness or sufficiency of any representatives contained in this reference material and the

author assumes no responsibility in connection therewith; nor can it be assured that all

acceptable safety measures are contained in this reference material, or that other or additional

measures may not be required in particular or exceptional conditions or circumstances.

Anyone requiring authoritative information concerning legislation, relations or other legal

requirements relating to industrial health and safety should contact the WorkSafe BC and other

regulatory agencies.

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Introduction

Regardless of your industry or specific job-title, it is always important to have a fire safety plan at your place of work and everyone should be trained in how to react to fire in a safe and prompt way. This is especially the case in an industrial/construction setting, where there are wide ranging factors which must be considered that can contribute to the cause of fires and how they are spread. Fire safety plans are a set of procedures put in place to eliminate/mitigate those hazards which have the potential to contribute to the possible destruction of buildings, property, and loss of life.

In many instances during the outbreak of a fire, panic can take hold and people rush to escape. Assigning employees tasks and training for a planned and proper evacuation help to minimize the possibility of accidents significantly. Additionally, it is good practice to train employees on how to identify fire extinguishers properly and utilize them effectively.

In terms of a proactive approach to fire safety the most effective tool is awareness. In this course we will cover the following concepts:

• Fire prevention. (Examples of common industrial fire hazards and control methods used in fire prevention)

• Encountering a fire. • Emergency response systems. (Emergency exit components, fire alarm response and

evacuation procedures) • The Fire Tetrahedron. (the four main properties necessary for fire to occur) • The 5 classes of fire and their main corresponding elements. • Extinguisher types, usage, and how they work to fight those specific 5 classes of fire. • Weights and Rating systems for Portable Fire Extinguishers. • Other emergency firefighting equipment. • Fuel sources. • How fast fires can spread. • Smoke, toxic gases, and vapours.

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Fire Prevention

Fire prevention procedures work to prevent the occurrence of unintended fires through the control of individual associated hazards. A proper assessment of job site hazards will assist you to devise an effective fire prevention strategy. Your priority should be to eliminate the hazard altogether but where hazards cannot be eliminated entirely, hazard mitigation/control strategies should be implemented.

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From the B.C. OH&S Code Part 5: Chemical Agents and Biological Agents

Section 5.55 – Types of Controls

(1) if there is a risk to a worker from exposure to a hazardous substance by any route of exposure, the employer must eliminate the exposure, or otherwise control it below harmful levels and below the applicable exposure limit established under section 5.48 by

(a) substitution

(b) engineering control

(c) administrative control, or

(d) personal protective equipment.

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Some of the biggest contributing factors/hazards in industrial fires include (but are not limited to):

• Sparks: Jobs such as welding, soldering, cutting, and other work involving extreme temperatures can throw sparks, potentially igniting nearby fumes or other flammable substances.

• Flammable and explosive substances in proximity to your work location: Industrial worksites are full of flammable materials and substances. Even slight mistakes in handling and storage of these materials can have drastic consequences if exposed to a spark or flame in close quarters.

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From the B.C. OH&S Code Part 12: Machinery and Equipment

Section 12.116 – Flammable and Explosive Substances

(1) A container which may have held a combustible substance must be thoroughly cleaned before any welding or burning operation is carried out on the container.

(2) Burning, welding or other hot work must not be done on any vessel, tank, pipe or structure, or in any place where the presence of a flammable or explosive substance is likely until

(a) tests have been made by a qualified person to ensure the work may be safely performed, and

(b) Suitable safe work procedures have been adopted, including additional tests made at intervals that will ensure the continuing safety of the workers

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• Inadequate housekeeping: Improper housekeeping procedures can result in combustible material being potentially exposed to an ignition source. Poor storage of hazardous substances/materials can either become a source of ignition or combustion if not stored correctly.

• Introduction of a contaminate: Whenever any type of coating is applied, the atmosphere could become contaminated. A tower or vessel that is having an internal coating applied may become hazardous due to vapors created not only while the coating is being applied but also during the drying/curing process.

• Contaminated clothing or skin: If a worker’s clothes become contaminated with a combustible or flammable liquid, the worker must remove the clothing at the earliest possible time and avoid any activity where an open flame or spark can be created, or already exists.

• Faulty equipment: Industrial equipment itself often produces a significant amount of heat. If something goes wrong with the cooling systems or other vital components, a fire can quickly grow.

• Release of explosive gas: A gas release from a leaking pipe or valve can accumulate to dangerous levels. A slow leak may create a relatively stable gas pocket or layer in an unknown area and be difficult to detect. A reaction between two or more chemicals may produce another gas which is explosive, or, electromagnetic energy (i.e. sunlight) may change a stable gas into an unstable gas.

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• Electrical hazards: Some electrical hazards which can lead to a fire on industrial worksites include: Improper wiring, overloading power outlets and power boards, degrading circuitry and poorly maintained electrical equipment.

The possibility of one event triggering others must be considered (Sequential events). An explosion may start a fire and cause structural failure, while an earthquake might damage equipment and cause subsequent electrical malfunction and fire.

• Whenever you encounter hazards on the jobsite, the first method of approach is to eliminate the hazard entirely. Where hazards cannot be eliminated, associated risk factors must be controlled and mitigated effectively before any work can commence.

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From the B.C. OH&S Code Part 3: Rights and Responsibilities

Section 3.5 – General Requirements

(1) Every employer must ensure that regular inspections are made of all workplaces, including buildings, structures, grounds, excavations, tools, equipment, machinery and work methods and practices, at intervals that will prevent the development of unsafe working conditions.

From the B.C. OH&S Code Part 4: General Conditions

Section 4.1 – Safe Workplace

(1) A workplace must be planned, constructed, used, and maintained to protect from danger any person working at the workplace.

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Some fire hazard control/elimination techniques include (but are not limited to):

• Maintain unobstructed access to emergency equipment, emergency exits and critical control facilities.

• All employees should be educated about the risks involving fire on the jobsite and be updated when new equipment or processes introduce new fire hazards.

• Material and equipment should be stored in such a fashion that it does not slow down the execution of important tasks in the event of an emergency.

• Employees should be trained in how to identify the appropriate portable fire extinguisher type and be proficient in its proper operation.

• Place oily rags in a covered metal container and dispose of them properly and regularly.

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• All work areas should be kept free of debris and other combustible materials. (Continuous housekeeping)

• Inspect all areas for fire hazards on a regular basis, paying specific attention to places where fires are most likely to occur.

• All preventative maintenance on electrical equipment should be done as per manufacturers’ recommendations. Industrial fires can be started by electrical equipment overheating or being in a state of disrepair. Inspect electrical circuits, outlets, wires and plugs regularly.

• Workers should read the manufacturer labelling and material safety data sheets for any flammable chemicals/products they may use and be trained in how to store them appropriately.

• In enclosed work environments, make sure ventilation systems operate effectively to remove flammable vapors, combustible dusts, and powders from the air.

• Smoking should be done in approved areas only.

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Section 4.81 – Environmental Tobacco Smoke (Controlling exposure)

(1) The employer must Control the exposure of workers at any workplace to the environmental tobacco smoke by

(a) prohibiting smoking in the workplace

(b) restricting smoking to the safe outdoor location that is a minimum of three meters away from a door window or air intake of an indoor workplace

(c) prohibiting working in an indoor area where smoking is allowed

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• Be sure to check that the right type of fire extinguishers for the appropriate hazards in your work area have been provided, and that the extinguisher is fully charged. Check the tags regularly to make sure the portable fire extinguisher has been inspected monthly as mandated.

• Sprinkler systems are an effective method for extinguishing fires before they grow out of control. In many industrial facilities, it takes as little as 155 degrees Celsius (311 degrees Fahrenheit) to activate sprinkler systems and release pressurized water.

• Keep storage areas well ventilated and free of ignition sources.

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• Be sure to change the batteries in smoke alarms every 3-6 months and test alarms monthly by pushing the “test” button for 3-5 seconds.

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5.7 Worker training (1) An employer must ensure that a worker who works with a hazardous product or may be exposed to a hazardous product in the course of his or her work activities is trained in the following:

(a) the content required on a supplier label and workplace label, and the purpose and significance of the information contained on those labels;

(b) the content required on an SDS and the purpose and significance of the information contained on the SDS;

(c) procedures for the safe use, storage, handling and disposal of the hazardous product;

(d) procedures for the safe use, handling and disposal of the hazardous product contained or transferred in

(i) a pipe or a piping system including valves,

(ii) a process or reaction vessel, or

(iii) a tank car, tank truck, ore car, conveyor belt or similar conveyance;

(e) procedures to be followed where fugitive emissions are present if workers may be exposed to those fugitive emissions;

(f) procedures to be followed in case of an emergency involving the hazardous product.

(2) Instruction required by subsection (1) must be specific to the workplace and cover the safe work procedures and emergency response procedures to be used in the workplace.

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Section 5.27 – Ignition Sources

(1) When a flammable gas or flammable liquid is handled, used or stored, all sources of ignition must be illuminated or adequately controlled.

(2) For the purpose of subsection (10 sources of ignition include open flame, spark producing mechanical equipment, welding and cutting processes,

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smoking, static discharge in any electrical equipment or installation that is not approved for hazardous locations, as specified by the electrical Safety Act.

(3) If the work involves more than one employer, the principle contractor or, if there is no principle contractor, the owner must ensure that sources of ignition resulting from the work of one employer are illuminated or adequately controlled in any work area where a flammable gas or flammable liquid is handled, used or stored by any other employer.

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Fire Tetrahedron

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For a long time, fire had been symbolized by what was referred to as the “Triangle of Combustion” or “Fire Triangle” which had 3 pillars, represented by: 1) Fuel 2) Heat, and 3) Oxygen. Further research in relation to fire determined that a fourth element, a chemical chain reaction, was needed to be incorporated, so to give a better full understanding of the components of a fire, and how it reacts.

The fire triangle was altered to reflect this fourth element, and is now referred to as a “Fire Tetrahedron”

The fire tetrahedron is a visual representation of the four main properties necessary for a fire to occur once sparked in any situation. The 4 main properties are:

1. Fuel (Which works to vaporize and burn during a fire to feed it) 2. Heat (Works to raise the temperature of a fire) 3. Oxygen (Which in a fire combines with the fuel vapour) 4. Chemical chain reaction (Combines with heat, fuel and oxygen to formulate a chain

reaction and keep the fire burning.)

The base theory in utilizing portable fire extinguishers is that fires can be extinguished by removing any one or more of the elements listed above. (Fuel, Heat, Oxygen) Thus, you can expect a fire to go out if there is not enough heat, if the fuel runs out, or if the oxygen supply is cut off (removal of any of the 3 will stop any chemical chain reaction as well).

Before we get into too much detail regarding portable fire extinguishers though, we will first clarify the basic elements of a fire and what determines their 5 different corresponding classes.

Stages of a Fire

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There are 4 understood stages of growth in a fire, and these are: Incipient, Growth, Fully Developed, and Decay.

Incipient

This first stage begins when heat, oxygen and a fuel source combine to have a chemical reaction resulting in the “ignition” of a fire. If you recognize a fire in this initial stage, it would be your best chance at suppressing the fire by a using portable fire extinguisher (if trained and safe to do so) to prevent the fire from growing.

Growth

The growth stage is where combustible items and the physical structure surrounding the initial fire have begun to be used as fuel for the fire to grow. There are several factors affecting the growth stage of a fire which include (but are not limited to) what specific combustibles are near the fire, the height of the ceiling, and what the building structure itself is made. The growth stage is also when a deadly occurrence known as “flashover” can transpire. “Flashover” is a term referring to a rapid escalation of a fire in a contained space (building or structure) from not only the combustible materials in proximity being added to fuel the fire, but the airborne gasses released by those materials as well.

Fully Developed (Burning stage)

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The growth stage reaches its limit once all combustible materials in proximity have been ignited, once that has occurred, a fire is then considered fully developed. This is the fiercest phase of a fire in terms of heat produced and the most dangerous for anybody trapped within it.

Decay

The decay stage is characterized by a significant decrease in oxygen or fuel, putting an end to the fire. Although the fire is out, there are still two specific common dangers to keep aware of. The existence of non-flaming combustibles, which if not extinguished fully can start a new fire. Secondly, the danger of strong winds and a backdraft bringing back oxygenated air to the original site of the fire, potentially re-igniting embers. This is typically the longest stage of an unexpected fire.

Flammability & Fire Suppression

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Flammability: The ease with which a material (gas liquid or solid) will ignite either spontaneously (pyrophoric), from exposure to a high temperature environment (autoignition), or from a spark. Flammability also involves the rate of spreading a flame once it has started.

While most fires are caused by an attributed ignition source (Spark), some fires are the result of spontaneous ignition. The two primary types of spontaneous ignition are pyrophoric and autoignition.

Pyrophoric: Pyrophoric materials are substances liable to ignite spontaneously and instantly when exposed to oxygen.

Examples include:

• Finely divided metals (Raney nickel, aluminum powder, zinc dust) • Organo-metallic reagents (i.e. Grignard reagents) • Alkali earth elements (sodium, potassium, cesium) • Gases (arsine, diborane, phosphine, silane)

Exposure to air or moisture can cause these materials to produce heat, fire and flammable/corrosive by-products through violent decomposition.

Auto ignition Temperature: The lowest temperature at which a substance ignites when no spark or flame is present.

• Many substances undergo a slow oxidization that, like the rapid oxidization of burning, releases heat. If the heat so released cannot escape the substance, the temperature of the substance rises until ignition takes place.

All explosion proof containers which contain aerosols and flammable/explosive liquids contained under pressure will be labeled in accordance with hazard communication standards.

Fire Suppression: Regarding fire suppression, and the way fires are put out, there are 3 understood terms that you should familiarize yourself with, and those are: fire starvation, fire blanketing and fire cooling.

• Removal of the fuel in a fire is called starvation. (Removing the things around the fire) • Removing the oxygen in a fire is called blanketing or smothering. • Removing the heat itself from the fire is referred to as cooling.

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As stated earlier regarding the fire tetrahedron; you can expect a fire to go out if there is not enough heat, if the fuel runs out, or if the oxygen supply is cut off.

Fuels All matter exists in one of three physical states: solids, liquids, and gases. Matter in each state can serve as the fuel for fire.

• Solid materials such as wood paper or cloth are common sources of fuel. Combustible metals including titanium, magnesium and sodium (among others) are also dangerous solid fuels. The burning rate of solids will vary according to their configuration; bulky fuels tend to burn longer, while more finely divided solids like dust or shavings burn faster because they present more surface area.

• Combustible and flammable liquids are another form of fuel. Some examples of liquid fuels include lubricating oil, diesel oil or hydraulic fluid. Liquid fuels release vapours more readily than solids because they have less densely packed molecules. Liquids produce around 2.5 times more heat and release heat 3-10 times faster than solids. Differing combustible and flammable liquid fuels also have varying flash points. The flash point is the temperature at which vapours produced from fuel are capable of being ignited if given an ignition source.

• Vapours produced by petroleum-based fuels are gases heavier than air, which seek low lying places to settle. Additionally, gases typically dissipate slowly, and can travel to distant ignition sources making them a specifically dangerous type of fuel.

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Evaporation: Evaporation is when liquids change to a gas (condensation is the reverse process.) Evaporation is one kind of vaporization, boiling is another.

Flash point: A flash point is the lowest temperature at which vapours ignite if it is given an ignition source. The lower the flash point, the greater the potential fire hazard. The SDS (safety data sheet) must note individual flashpoint values, and the method used to determine the flashpoint.

Lower Explosive Limit (LEL): The lowest concentration of a substance in air that will burn or explode when it is exposed to a source of ignition. At concentrations below the LEL, the mixture is “too lean” to burn or explode.

Upper Explosive Limit (UEL): The greatest concentration of a substance in air that will burn or explode when exposed to a source of ignition. At concentrations with vapour densities greater than the UEL, the mixture is “too rich” to burn or explode.

• Each explosive gas has its own LEL and UEL

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Section 5.31 – Flammable Gas or Vapour

(1) If it is not practicable to maintain the airborne concentration of a flammable gas or vapor below the applicable exposure limit, for example, in a temporary situation or an emergency,

(a) only the minimum number of workers necessary for the work may be exposed,

(b) every worker exposed must be adequately trained and equipped to safely perform the required duties,

(c) the concentration of the flammable gas or vapor must not exceed 20% of the lower explosive limit (LEL) and,

(d) In a life threatening emergency only, exposure of emergency response workers is prevented above 20% of the LEL , provided that only those qualified and properly trained and equipped workers necessary to correct the unsafe condition are exposed to the hazard and every possible effort is made to control the hazard while this is being done.

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Classes of a Fire

Class A Fire: Representative of a fire started with freely burning, combustible solid materials, such as wood, paper, cloth or cardboard.

Class B Fire: Classified as a fire started with flammable or combustible liquids or gases.

Class C Fire: Are fires started by energized electrical equipment acting as the ignition source. Examples such as a short circuit or surge in power.

Class D Fire: Representative of a metallic fire started by flammable metals such as lithium, sodium or potassium.

Class K Fire: Can be typically classified as cooking fires – animal/vegetable oils or fats.

Fire Alarm Response: Aspects of an Emergency Evacuation Plan

It can take less than five minutes for a fire to spread and completely engulf a warehouse or industrial facility. There isn’t much time to decide what needs to be done. As such, it is critical to institute an emergency evacuation plan for the event of a fire and practice those procedures in a drill format at minimum every 1 year (or more often as per site requirements). Hesitation and being ill-prepared could mean the difference between life and death in the event of a fire.

Having an evacuation plan and following it in an emergency helps workers get out of a potentially hazardous situation, directing them to their pre-established muster point/emergency meeting station in a safe and orderly manner using their nearest safe emergency exits and evacuation routes.

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Section 4.16 – Training

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(1) All workers must be given adequate instruction in the fire prevention and emergency evacuation procedures applicable to their workplace.

(2) Workers assigned to firefighting duties in the workplace must be given adequate training, by qualified instructor, in fire suppression methods, fire prevention, emergency procedures, organization and chain of command, firefighting crew safety and communications applicable to their workplace.

From the B.C. OH&S Code Part 32: Evacuation and Rescue

Section 32.2 – Training

(1) Workers designated to provide rescue or evacuation services must be adequately trained.

(2) training program must include simulated rescue or evacuation exercises in regular retraining, appropriate to the type of rescue or evacuation being provided, and training records must be kept.

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An emergency evacuation plan should clearly set out the following precautions/procedures in the event of a fire:

• Training workers in site-specific procedures for evacuation in the event of a fire. • A clear chain of command including specific duties, responsibilities, authority, and

resources must be clearly defined and established. • Specific evacuation plans for confined spaces and high angle rescue. • The nearest emergency exit route and a secondary route of escape. • The location of fire extinguishers and emergency pull stations (Fire alarm). • Steps in notifying emergency services. (Means of effective 2-way communication

between emergency response and the workers in case of emergency).

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Section 32.8 – Communications

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(1) Effective communications must be maintained between the workers engaged in rescue or evacuation and support persons

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• Evacuation maps with clearly stated emergency procedures, emergency exits, and routes of escape must be posted on the wall in high traffic areas such as lobbies or stairwells on all floors in buildings and industrial facilities.

• Provide clear markers for people guiding them to exit locations from the building/work structure and mark exits with clear “EXIT” signs with arrows directing which way the exits are located.

• Establish emergency meeting point/muster point locations. • A backup emergency meeting point/muster area should be instituted in case of potential

blocked access to your primary muster point. • An established procedure to account for all employees after an evacuation. • Pre-determination of who may need to stay after the evacuation alarm to perform

necessary duties or shut down critical equipment. (If required) • Who/What/When/Where and How medical treatment and assistance (if necessary) will

be provided. • Individual site-specific hazards that are likely to affect your emergency evacuation plan

must be identified and either eliminated or mitigated in your procedures for response. • Emergency evacuation plans are not set in stone. A final step that should take place after

any situation that involves emergency evacuation from your work area (due to either an alarm, encountering fire, or for drill purposes) is to use the results from your evacuation, good or bad, as an indicator of your teams preparation level, and update the emergency evacuation plan as required.

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Section 4.14 – Emergency Procedures

(1) Emergency means of escape must be provided from any work area in which the malfunctioning of equipment or a work process could create an immediate danger to workers and the regular means of exit could become dangerous or unusable.

(2) Emergency exit routes must be designed and marked to provide quick and unimpeded exit.

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(3) at least once each year emergency drills must be held to ensure awareness and effectiveness of emergency exit routes and procedures, and a record of the drills must be kept.

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Fire Alarm Response: (Part 1 – Planning an evacuation route)

A) Assess the situation

• In the event of an alarm and/or occurrence of fire, follow the pre-established procedure for your site-specific evacuation plan. An initial site orientation should go over the procedure in place for fire response and evacuation.

• You may be able extinguish small fires if you have the correct firefighting equipment on site and it is located nearby.

• Take note of possible emergency exit routes and pull stations (fire alarms), utilizing them as necessary.

• If there is any equipment that could cause major safety issues if left running during a fire, shut the equipment down. (If it is safe to do so)

• When inside a building, (If the fire alarm is ringing) before leaving a room, feel the door. If the door is hot, or if smoke is seeping through, do not open it. Try another door if one is available. If you can safely open the door, do so slowly and proceed with caution.

• In situations where you do happen to encounter smoke, be sure to stay as low as you possibly can to the ground in your evacuation, (where the air quality will be somewhat better) taking short shallow breaths.

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• If you find yourself in a position where you are trapped by fire in a building or facility and cannot reach an alternate exit, keep the door closed and seal off any cracks. Call appropriate emergency response and report the situation, giving your location in the building. Then go to a window and signal for help waving something out the window to help signal your location (if possible).

• If your clothes happen to catch fire, quickly STOP, DROP AND ROLL and attempt to smother the flames before attempting an evacuation. Walking quickly while on fire can potentially fan the flames, further escalating the situation.

• Don’t panic. Like any potential survival situation, its vital that you keep your composure. If you panic and begin to hyperventilate, it can be doubly dangerous in the event of a fire, as oxygen is already likely to have been displaced. Breathing heavily in the event of a fire can increase the likelihood of asphyxiation.

• However, it is unlikely that in the event of an alarm any of the above extreme scenarios will transpire. Typically, an alarm will sound, at which point you’d assess the situation, communicate it with any workers in proximity and identify a safe evacuation route.

B) Inform/communicate with others

• Alert other workers in proximity of the situation if they are not already evacuating. Take the lead if necessary.

• Keep calm but walk quickly and pull the fire alarm if it’s not already ringing

C) Identify safe escape routes

• If possible, find out why an evacuation was called while identifying a safe escape route. Knowing why an evacuation has been called can help you modify your plan if necessary.

• Follow pre-established routes that are designed and practiced in getting people out of the building/work area with the least risk during an evacuation.

• Try to avoid potential hazards such as going through areas with large windows. These pose an extra risk, as windows may blow out and cause injury due to broken glass.

• Be sure to avoid mechanical transportation such as elevators, as these could fail and put people at an increased risk. Use stairwells whenever possible.

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Fire Alarm Response: (Part 2 – Leaving the work area/facility)

A) Proceed quickly to an exit

• ONCE YOU ARE POSITIVE IT IS SAFE TO DO SO, proceed quickly to your nearest exit/evacuation route in a cautious and orderly manner.

• As you enter the stairways, move to the inside railing and allow workers from lower floors to intertwine with the group as you proceed downstairs.

• Close the doors as you leave to help prevent smoke and fire from further spreading.

B) Get some distance

• Once you have exited the space, make sure to put a safe distance between you and the location of the fire. If accessible, go directly to your muster point/emergency meeting station. If not, try and get at least 100 feet from the area that was evacuated.

C) Check in with first responders

• Remember: GET OUT FIRST, and as soon as you are at a safe and secure location, call for help.

• Once you are at your muster point, and an active headcount has been completed, have a designated worker (usually site safety or management) get in contact with the site authorities or emergency responders to let them know the crew is safe and accounted for.

• Be sure to institute a means of effective 2-way communication prior to an emergency between emergency responders/site authority and designated workers on your crew.

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(That way in the event of emergency protocol, communication methods are already established)

• If no authorities or first responders are present, call the police or fire department as appropriate to warn them of potential hazards and to receive further instruction.

Fire Alarm Response: (Part 3 – Following up after an evacuation)

A) Get clearance

• Before you re-enter the building/work area, make sure you get clearance from emergency responders and site authority that the area is safe.

• You are not permitted to cross any coloured tape placed over doors or other entrances to the area until clearance by site authorities is granted.

B) Assess any damage

• Inspect the area for any foundational or equipment damage that may have occurred. • If physical damage was done to the workspace, take careful note of what damage

occurred and what may be harmed or missing. Photographs should be taken of any damage that occurred, as these pictures may be needed to substantiate insurance claims later.

C) Update evacuation plans

• Take this evacuation experience as an opportunity to work out kinks in your plan. • If an evacuation was particularly slow, look for alternate routes to consider or divide

people up more evenly among exits. • Regularly scheduled emergency response drills are imperative in training workers how to

follow proper evacuation procedure in the event of an emergency. • As conditions in the scope of work or location of the job itself change, emergency

response plans should be updated and trained for accordingly. Changes in plant

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infrastructure, processes, materials used, and differences in logistics or introduction of any new major hazards are occasions for updating the plan.

Types of Portable Fire Extinguishers

Now that we have covered details regarding the differences in classes of fires, we can look to what extinguisher types are used to fight the associated fires.

Water and Chemical Foam Types (Class A Fire Extinguisher)

Look for a symbol showing a Green Triangle with a capital A inside of it which denotes a Class A extinguisher type (as shown on the previous page).

There are two different forms of A-Type fire extinguishers. One type has its canister filled with foam, and the other is filled with water

The water contained inside this type of extinguisher works primarily to remove the heat feeding the fire. The foam type removes the heat as well, but also smothers the flames better than water alone can.

• Works for: Class A fires. (Freely burning combustibles – i.e. wood, paper, cloth)

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• Water and Foam extinguishers will be labeled as: “Type A fire extinguisher”

Safety tip: Do not use water to try and extinguish flammable liquid or cooking fires as it just helps to spread the liquid and the fire.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) Type - (Class B + C Fire Extinguisher)

Look for a symbol with a Red Square with a capital B inside of it (Symbolizes a Class B extinguisher type) & a symbol showing a Blue Circle with a capital C inside of it (Class C extinguisher type) (both shown on the previous page).

This type of extinguisher is filled with pressurized CO2 which works by blanketing the fire covering it in carbon dioxide which then stops the chemical reaction at the surface by removing the oxygen.

Works for: Class B and Class C fires

• A carbon dioxide extinguisher will be marked on the label as: “Type B and Type C fire extinguisher”.

Safety Tips: Do not use in confined spaces as the carbon dioxide can displace the oxygen in the air. Do not use for class A fires as the fire may continue to smolder and re-ignite after the carbon dioxide disperses.

Dry chemical Type (Class A, B, C Fire Extinguisher)

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This label will show a Green Triangle for Class A, a Red Square for Class B, and a Blue Circle for Class C on the sticker. (As shown in the picture above)

A dry chemical type is the most used of all fire extinguishers. This is due primarily to its versatility and effectiveness across multiple classes of fire. The way a dry chemical fire extinguisher works is by removing the chemical reaction chain inside the fire itself. This powder extinguisher works by releasing a very fine chemical powder composed primarily of monoammonium phosphate. This acts to blanket the fire and suffocate it. (A, B, C classes of fires)

• Works for: Class A, B, C fires (multi-purpose) • A dry chemical extinguisher will be marked on the label as: “Type A, B, C fire extinguisher”.

Safety Tip: The residue from dry chemical extinguishers can damage motors, computers and other electrical equipment, so use caution.

Wet Chemical Type (Class K Fire Extinguisher)

A Black Hexagon with a capital K inside of it denotes a Class K type on the label (As shown in the picture)

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This extinguisher type contains a wet chemical agent which removes the heat and creates a barrier between oxygen and fuel so a fire cannot be re-ignited. The chemical is released as a mist, which then cools the fire’s heat, in turn, creating a smothering effect over the fuel.

• Works best for Class K fires – oil and grease fires. • A wet chemical extinguisher will be labeled as: “Type K fire extinguisher”.

For each class of fire, the fuel, heat source and chain reactions are different. For this reason, there are various types of fire extinguishers available for effectively fighting the different classes of fire. For instance, while a ‘class A’ fire can be safely extinguished with water, a ‘class C’ fire cannot, as water would conduct the electricity and risk intensifying the fire. As mentioned though, there are also multipurpose (dry chemical/ABC) extinguishers that have a wider breadth of capacity to fight different classes of fires and would be capable of extinguishing both a Class A and Class C fire.

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Fire Extinguisher Ratings

The Letters A, B, C, D, K represent the specific classes of fire for which the extinguisher has been approved for. Some extinguishers are classified for only one type of fire, others may be classified for multiple types of fires (i.e. Dry Chemical – ABC type & Carbon Dioxide B, C type)

For Class A, B+C, and ABC extinguishers, on the label there is a number in Front of the “A” classification. This number is signified by a rating indicating how much water the extinguisher is equivalent to. For every unit of 1 for an “A” fire extinguisher, it can put out a fire just as effectively as 1.25 gallons of water.

• Example, a 4-A rated fire extinguisher can put out a fire just as effectively as 5 gallons of water (4 x 1.25 gallons = 5 gallons)

• Class A size ratings range from 1 to 40. • Rating size 1-A can fight a fire as effectively as 1.25 gallons Rating size 40-A can fight a

fire as effectively as 50 gallons of water. (40 x 1.25 gallons = 50 gallons.)

For Class B designation on extinguishers (flammable liquid), the number indicator placed before the “B” is representative of the area in ft² of a flammable liquid (one inch in depth) that should be able to be extinguished.

• Example: For an extinguisher rated 10-BC; A non-expert user should be able to put out a flammable liquid fire that is as large as 10 ft² (square-feet).

• Class B size ratings range from 10 to 640. This number estimates the square footage an extinguisher can cover. For example, an extinguisher rated at 10-B indicates that you can expect to douse a fire that had spread to cover 10 square feet, while an extinguisher rated at 640-B will be able extinguish a flammable liquid fire as large as 640 ft² (square feet).

From here we can then break down how the most common type of portable fire extinguisher (Dry Chemical Class A, B, C type) would be interpreted.

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• For Example: A typical 5 lb. dry chemical (ABC type) fire extinguisher is rated at 3-A:40B:C o Meaning that it can be used for A, B or C, classes of fires. o 3A means it is equal to 3.75 gallons of water for a paper/wood fire o 40B means a user should be able to put out a flammable liquid fire that is as large

as 40 ft². o C meaning it is non-conductive and acceptable to use for an electrical fire. o It will state that the extinguisher has 5 lbs. of agent in the extinguisher on the label

There are no numeric size ratings for fighting Class C, D, or K fires because these classifications simply indicate that the extinguisher is recommended for fighting electrical fires, flammable metal fires, or kitchen fires, respectively.

Fire Extinguisher Weights

In terms of weights for fire extinguishers, bigger is usually better. However, if you place a 50-lb extinguisher for use in emergency situations, workers may find it difficult to operate. Here are some common fire extinguisher sizes and their corresponding weights:

• 2A:10B:C – 4 lbs • 3A:40B:C – 5 lbs • 4A:60B:C – 10 lbs (This is one of the two most common sized extinguishers that will be

found on industrial and construction worksites) • 10A:80B:C – 20 lbs (This is the other most common sized extinguisher that will be found

on industrial and construction worksites)

The weights listed above specify the amount of fire extinguishing agent the tank can hold. Expect the gross weight of the entire portable fire extinguisher while fully charged to be a bit heavier.

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Portable Fire Extinguishers on the Job Site – Things to Know

Be sure that the portable fire extinguisher is mounted properly. The maximum height that the top of a fire extinguisher should reach is 60 inches (152 cm), while also remaining at minimum 4 inches (10cm) above the floor. (The ratings and extinguisher type should be facing out while mounted)

Extinguishers made available at your work area must be the appropriate type (i.e. Type A, Type K, Type ABC), for controlling the job site hazards and classes of fire you may encounter.

• You should know where a fire extinguisher is located at your work location, and how to inspect it.

• Look at the extinguisher frequently to check whether it has been inspected. Fire extinguishers should be inspected regularly, at intervals of no less than once a month, and inspections should be marked on a tag that is attached to the fire extinguisher.

Do not ever place anything in front, or obstructing access to firefighting equipment. Access should be readily available, and a clear and un-obstructed path (2-3 feet wide) to extinguishers should be maintained.

• At least 1 portable fire extinguisher of the appropriate type must be placed on every level of a building or structure.

• Fire extinguishers are meant for small fires and to prevent their spread. • The higher the number rating on the extinguisher, the more fire it puts out. High rated

extinguishers are often (not always) the heavier models. Be sure you can hold and operate the one you may need to use comfortably.

• Recharge your portable fire extinguisher after ANY use. A partially used extinguisher might as well be empty.

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Inspection of a Portable Fire Extinguisher

In checking to make sure your extinguisher is charged, the pressure inside should always be at the recommended level. To verify this, the needle demarking the amount of pressure inside the fire extinguisher must be located inside the green zone (not too high and not too low) of the spectrum in the pressure indicator gauge located near the nozzle (as shown in the picture below).

• Make sure the tamper seal is intact. (The tamper seal indicates whether the extinguisher has been used, while it also works to keep the pin from being pulled out accidentally – Usually just a coloured piece of zip tie) – (In the picture shown above, the tamper seal is the yellow zip tie attached to the nozzle.)

• Check the tag for the last time regularly scheduled inspection has been performed. Portable fire extinguishers should be inspected at least once a month and sent in for manufacturers testing annually.

• Make sure all the labels for instructions of use on the portable fire extinguishers are clearly legible.

• Examine that the extinguisher has not been damaged or tampered with (Check the cylinder, hose, nozzle, and other components)

• Check to make sure there are no cracks or leaks in the hose and nozzle.

• Check the connection between the cylinder and the hose.

• Check to make sure the locking pin goes through the holes of the discharge lever and handle properly, and that the pin is secured well by the tamper seal. The pin itself works by locking the discharge lever, preventing accidental discharge.

• Check to make sure the discharge opening on the nozzle is clear of any potential obstruction.

If extinguishers don’t meet the above conditions and criteria, they should be removed from service.

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While it is not likely that you as a worker will be asked to regularly inspect your portable fire extinguisher, it is good to know how to decipher defects in the equipment.

• In the event of a fire, time is of the essence and you won’t want to be rushing through an inspection of a portable fire extinguisher. For that reason, all the above safety inspection criteria should be completed prior to the extinguisher being mounted.

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From the B.C. OH&S Code Part 23: Oil and Gas

Section 23.10 – Fire Extinguishers

(1) Non-freezing fire extinguishers, other firefighting equipment and firefighting personnel must be provided as required by subsection (2) (3) and (4) and Table 23-1

(4) Firefighting equipment must meet the requirements of NFPA 10, Portable Fire Extinguishers, 1990 Edition.


Section 4.8 – Rated Capacity

(1) Unless provided elsewhere in this regulation, the rated capacity or rated load of a machine or piece of equipment is that specified by the manufacturer of the machine or piece of equipment based on its design


Section 32.6 – Maintenance Records

(1) Repealed

(2) Maintenance records must be kept, including but not limited to

(a) the name of the manufacturer

(b) the type of equipment

(c) the date put into service

(d) when and for what purpose the equipment has been used

(e) the date of the last inspection and name of the inspecting person

(f) any damage suffered, and

(g) the date and nature of any maintenance

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(3) Maintenance records must be available a prom request to any worker concerned with the safe operation of the equipment or to an officer.

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Portable Fire Extinguisher Use/Procedure

As stated, extinguishers that are mounted should be previously inspected and labelled appropriately. If you can encounter a fire, you should only extinguish it if you are:

1. Trained and competent in the use of the portable fire extinguisher. 2. Confident you can combat the fire safely and quickly. 3. Have un-impeded access to the extinguisher. 4. Are sure of the classification of fire and are certain you have the appropriate

extinguisher type. 5. Have cleared the area and sounded the alarm. You can then proceed in your effort to

extinguish the fire using a portable fire extinguisher.

There are 2 specific things that you need to remain mindful of when fighting a fire using a portable fire extinguisher:

1. Never put yourself in a position (while attempting to extinguish a fire) where there is fire between you, and your exit point. Be certain to keep the fire in front of you, and your safe exit point (with a path to escape) at your back.

2. Operate the extinguisher using the 4-step P.A.S.S. technique (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep)

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• Step 1: (P)Pull the pin Every extinguisher has a pin near the handle that goes through the discharge lever to prevent accidental discharge. Grab the ring attached to the pin and pull it out from the side. There will likely be a tamper seal that will easily break off too when you pull out the pin. (usually just a coloured zip-tie of some sort)

• Step 2: (A)aim your extinguisher at the base of the fire. (Stand about 10 feet from the fire, spraying with the wind at your back.)

• Step 3: To release the agent inside the extinguisher, (S)Squeeze the two levers on the handle together as doing so will activate the extinguisher.

• Step 4: (S)sweep the base of the fire front to back, with a side to side sweeping motion until the fire is completely extinguished. You can move closer to the fire as the flames die down.

If you manage to extinguish the fire, wait a little while before leaving the scene, as there’s potential that the fires’ embers could re-ignite.

If the fire re-ignites, repeat steps 2-4 of the process again. Do this as many times as necessary until help arrives or the fire stops completely.

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Safety Tips for Portable Fire Extinguishers

Only attempt to extinguish a fire if you are trained in its operation and fully confident that you can do so in safe and prompt manner.

• Portable fire extinguishers have differing total discharge times depending on the type, size and rating of the extinguisher, so you need to recognize their limited capacity.

• Portable fire extinguishers are meant to fight or contain fires in their infant stages and prevent the fire from spreading.

Water A Long 60 sec Fights re-ignition

CO2 B and C Short 10-20

sec May make breathing difficult in enclosed areas

Dry Chemical

B and C Some A

Moderate 10-25 sec Leaves residue

Chemical Foam A and B Moderate 10-30

sec Leaves residue

Bucket of Sand / Dry Powder D Check with your supervisor regarding

equipment for Class D fire fighting Wet Chemical K Prevents re-ignition

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• Small portable fire extinguishers have a spray range of around 5 feet, while larger portable fire extinguishers have a spray range of roughly 20 feet.

• If you feel as though you cannot safely extinguish the fire using the portable extinguisher available, or the fire grows too large, cease in your attempt and evacuate.

• Always use the appropriate extinguisher type for the associated class of fire. If you do not know how to determine what portable fire extinguisher to use, do not attempt to fight the fire.

• Do not attempt to fight a fire if you don’t know what type of material is burning, or if the area is already covered in smoke

• In fighting a fire, do not walk away from the fire, even if you think it is out. The fire may re-ignite due to smouldering residue.

• Always keep portable fire extinguishers in their designated place, positioned in such a way that they are clearly visible and readily accessible for immediate use.

• Maintain extinguishers in a fully charged and operable condition, with the labels clearly visible and the tags showing inspection and servicing dates.

• Even if you are sure you can safely and promptly extinguish the fire, pull the fire alarm and evacuate the area.

NEVER put yourself in a position where you are risking your life or immediate safety attempting to fight the fire rather than escaping the situation.

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Other Types of Firefighting Equipment

Fire Doors:

• Fire doors are a type of firefighting equipment that help delay the spread of a fire. Whereas normal doors will burn quickly, a fire door can take up to 30 minutes to burn, giving occupants more time to escape before the fire potentially spreads. (These doors are usually placed near fire exits/ escapes)

Fire Extinguishers

• Should be easily accessible, portable, and will display a label with instructions for operation and extinguisher type on the tank. Extinguishers can contain; water, dry powder, foam, CO/CO2 or wet chemicals and will be visually marked by classification of their type. (A, B, C, D, K, ABC, BC)

Fire Sprinklers

• Regarded as an ‘all the time’ ready form of firefighting equipment, affixed to the roof of a building/structure or home.

Fire Hose

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• Can be sub-categorized further into attack hoses, relay-based fire hoses, booster fire hoses and hard suction fire hoses. Essentially though, it is a high-pressure hose that carries water or another form of fire retardant which is then expelled at the nozzle to extinguish a flame.

Fire Hydrants

• A fire hydrant is a visible fixture placed inside or outside of buildings that is connected to a water service network. Fire hydrants are designed to instantly provide the water required by fire fighters to extinguish a fire.

Flamezorb

• Flamezorb is a chemical that adequately suppresses fire flames. It helps to dissipate the fire using a sand/chemical hybrid and is far superior to sand itself in firefighting. This element goes with a firefighting bucket for more effective usage.

Fire Buckets

• Fire buckets are simplistic yet can be remarkably efficient for initial response in fire containment. You might fill it with Flamezorb, sand or water to fight the initial fire and contain a spread depending on the class of fire. (This is what is used to extinguish Class D fires. - A metallic fire started by flammable metals)

Stop, Drop, and Roll

If your cloths catch fire, you can potentially smother the fire (depriving it of oxygen) through a 3-step process commonly referred to as “Stop, Drop and Roll”.

• Stop: The act of running can potentially add oxygen to the fire in the form of fanning the flames. If you’re moving, you won’t be able to smother the fire. Additionally, it may

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prevent bystanders from aiding the situation by smothering the flames or potentially dousing you in water.

• Drop: When you physically drop into the face down position it reduces your body surface area that can receive oxygen. From this position the person should cover their face from the flames to prevent burns. Fire burns upward, and by dropping to the prone (face down) position, it limits the amount of oxygen available and retards the fire’s ability to burn upward.

• Roll: Due to the fact that a person’s clothing in many cases becomes the fuel source for fire, and the clothes they wear cover their entire body, the roll portion of the procedure ensures that all clothing that may be on fire is smothered against the ground. The person should continue “rolling” back and forth until the fire is fully put out.

Once the flames are out, cool the burned skin with water for 3-5 minutes, and be sure to seek immediate medical attention.

Although no fabric can be considered truly fireproof, there are certain fabrics that resist fire better than others.

• Wool is generally considered the most flame-resistant natural fiber, because it is difficult to ignite, and flames are often extinguished in the fibers.

• Synthetic, polyester and nylon fabrics can be particularly hazardous when they burn, because on top of the burns you are already likely to receive if involved in a fire, these materials can melt and fuse to the skin.

• Fire-resistant fabric is so designated as such based on the time it takes for the fabric to burn. Fire-resistant fabric may be naturally fire resistant because of its natural fiber weave or treated artificially with a fire-resistant coating which is added to a fabric to resist heat and flames.

Flame Resistant: In reference to clothing, means made of material that, due to its inherent properties or as a result of treatment by a flame retardant, will slow, terminate, or prevent flaming combustion.

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Section 12.123 – Personal Protective Equipment

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(1) A worker involved in welding or burning operations must wear

(a) Flame resistant work clothing,

(b) gauntlet gloves of leather or other suitable material and arm protection,

(c) an apron of leather or other suitable material for heavy work,

(d) face protection against harmful radiation, particles of molten metal comma and while chipping in grinding welds, and

(e) Substantial safety footwear made of leather or other suitable material.

Note: Unless specifically manufactured as flame resistant, work clothing made of polyester, acetate, nylon, acrylic or polypropylene fibers, or mixtures of these with wool or cotton do not comply with paragraph (a). Such materials are not flame resistant and will melt while burning, Causing deep and extensive burns to the skin. Work clothing made of laminated fabric contaminating polyurethane sponge should not be worn as it may readily ignite and burn.

Heavier wool or cotton fabrics are preferable to lighter fabrics because they are more difficult to ignite. The fabric should have a smooth tightly woven finish and be maintained in good condition. Follow the manufacturer's directions for all flame-resistant protective apparel to ensure that the flame-resistant properties are maintained.

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Emergency Exits in Industrial Facilities

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Emergency exits are essential because they provide a clear, safe way to evacuate a building in case of a fire or other crisis. Identifying and maintaining emergency exits and emergency exit routes are an important part of your emergency evacuation plan.

• Evacuation procedures highlighting which emergency exit is to be used and a safe route of escape from your work area should be implemented and understood by all workers prior to initial work commencing.

• Emergency exits on your construction site/industrial facility must always remain unlocked, well-lit and free from any obstruction.

• Items must never be placed in front of an emergency exit, even temporarily. • The placement of an “EXIT” sign itself is also a crucial part of its functionality. “EXIT” or

“EMERGENCY EXIT ONLY” signs should be placed above the door of an emergency exit and be hung no less than 80 inches (roughly 2 meters) above the floor.

• The sightline of an “EXIT/EMERGENCY EXIT ONLY” sign should not be obstructed by an object from any direction.

• “EXIT” or “EMERGENCY EXIT ONLY” signs must be designed to remain illuminated during a blackout/power outage, fire or other emergency.

• The doors leading to emergency exits must not have barricades, bars or other devices that could be locked from the inside. The doors could be locked with people looking to escape the building, slowing down or potentially keeping people from leaving the facility safely in the event of an emergency.

• Doors of common hallways that lead to fire escapes or emergency stairwells are always to be kept closed. If there is a fire, this will slow smoke and fire from spreading to your emergency escape routes.

• There should be multiple emergency exit locations in any industrial/construction facility to protect occupant safety and establish a systematic method for safe and orderly evacuation in the event of a fire or other emergency.

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Smoke and Toxic Gases

Smoke can be understood as a particulate matter, consisting of fine solid particles and condensed vapour. It represents most of the visible part of the products of combustion observed in a fire. Gas can be understood as a product of combustion which remains a gas even when cooled to normal building temperatures. Vapour, however, is a product of combustion that is a gas when produced; but returns to solid or liquid form at normal temperatures.

The main danger from smoke is reduced visibility. Smoke will often impede the escape of occupants from a burning building and result in prolonged exposure to the harmful effects of toxic products. Toxic gases and vapours can cause death if they are present in large enough quantities and if the worker remains exposed for enough time. Toxic chemicals too can entrap occupants by working as an irritant. Even small concentrations of products such as hydrogen chloride and ammonia cause direct irritation of the respiratory tract and the eyes. Although irritants are meant to act as a warning signal from the body and alert people to the presence of fire, under some circumstances they can inhibit potential victims from finding an exit even before the smoke envelopes them.

Combustion is the act or process of burning. Oxygen is required for combustion, and oxygen is used up whenever a work process like welding or brazing is carried out. Any type of heater that uses an open flame also consumes oxygen. Substances that are burning slowly or smouldering may also cause oxygen deficiency in spaces that are not well ventilated or with insufficient air flow.

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• All flammable gases also act as asphyxiate gases. As such, it’s important to consider the amount of oxygen by volume at present in your work location. Especially when working in proximity to open flames.

The air we normally breathe contains about 78% nitrogen, 20.9% oxygen, and 1% argon. The slight remainder is a variety of other gases and vapors. In terms of working in potential confined spaces, or hazardous industrial settings, the ideal atmosphere is one that most resembles the air we breathe. An atmosphere that contains less than 19.5% oxygen is considered oxygen deficient and an atmosphere that contains more than 23% oxygen is considered oxygen enriched. The oxygen content of any work area must test between 19.5% - 23% by volume.

• When fires are fought by emergency fire and rescue personnel, the responders are often working with the use of Supplied Air Breathing Apparatus’ (SABA). This is done to assure that oxygen levels remain at a safe breathing level, and to protect themselves from toxic gases and vapours.

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From the B.C. OH&S Code Part 8: Personal Protective Clothing and Equipment

Section 8.83 – IDLH or Oxygen Deficient Atmosphere

(1) If a worker is required to enter or work in an IDLH or oxygen deficient atmosphere a worker must

(a) Wear a full facepiece positive pressure respirator which is either an SCBA, or an airline respirator with an auxiliary self-contained air cylinder or sufficient capacity to permit the worker to escape unassisted from the contaminated area if the air supply fails, and

(b) be attended by at least one other worker stationed at or near the entrance to the contaminated area who is similarly equipped and capable of effecting rescue

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Formation of Toxic Gases and Vapours

The quantities of toxic gases and vapours produced by combustion depend on the material involved and the environmental conditions.

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Section 12.114 – Ventilation

(1) Effective local exhaust ventilation must be used at any fixed workstation to minimize worker exposure to harmful air contaminants produced by welding, burning, or soldering.


Section 5.56 – Oxygen Deficient

(1) Airborne concentrations of any gas or vapor must be controlled so that a worker is not exposed to an oxygen deficient atmosphere, and there is no other hazard, such as fire or explosion.

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Hydrogen Cyanide

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Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) is produced when synthetic materials that contain nitrogen, carbon and hydrogen atoms in their structure are ignited. (examples: nylon, wool, polyurethane) When decomposed in a fire, synthetic materials with this cellular makeup produce hydrogen cyanide (HCN), a very toxic gas, in addition to CO and other combustion products.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced as a result of the incomplete combustion of materials containing carbon and is present in large quantities in most fires. Carbon monoxide in high concentrations can displace oxygen, causing asphyxiation of the respiratory system if breathed in large enough quantities.

Carbon Dioxide

Carbon dioxide (CO2) Inhalation of carbon dioxide stimulates respiration, which in turn increases inhalation of both oxygen and possible toxic gases and vapours produced by the fire.

Nitrogen Dioxide

Nitrogen dioxide, which is very toxic, can be produced from the combustion of cellulose nitrate. These compounds are strong irritants, particularly to mucous membranes. Thus, when inhaled will damage tissues in the respiratory tract by reacting with moisture to produce nitrous and nitric acids.

Cellulose

Cellulose, the main component of wood, is made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. The burning of cellulose produces hydrocarbons and compounds made of the above three elements (carbon, hydrogen, oxygen), in addition to the usual combustion products.

Toxic gases and vapours produced by combustion are responsible for the majority of deaths in industrial fires by asphyxiating and incapacitating those exposed and preventing a safe escape. Carbon monoxide is produced in quantity in most fires because almost all organic materials contain carbon in their chemical structure. Materials that contain nitrogen, such as acrylic fibre, nylon or wool (among others) could produce dangerous quantities of hydrogen cyanide in addition to carbon monoxide. When these materials are involved in a fire, the resulting atmosphere will be much more toxic than that from the combustion of material whose toxic product is mainly carbon monoxide.

• If you are ever in a position where you are in a burning facility, and your only route of escape is to go through the smoke, cover your mouth as best you can with a shirt, towel or any sort of cloth material at your disposal, and stay as low to the ground as you can.

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How Fast Wildfires Spread

When the weather warms in summer, and it remains dry for long enough periods of time, wildfires begin to burn. This is especially the case in B.C., where during the winter months the area tends to experience a large amount of rain which increases the amount of tree/plant growth and undergrowth in the surrounding areas. All that corresponding growth (which is highly combustible) serves to create a large amount of potential ‘fuel’ for wildfires to burn in the summer months. The subsequent warm/dry climate in summer, coupled with an overabundance of combustible fuel sources covering the landscape, all that’s than needed for a wildfire to thrive is for something to ignite it. Typically, the ignition source of a wildfire is primarily caused by human negligence or malice. Conservative estimates have stated that up 80% of all wildfire ignition sources are due to those human factors. While the accompanying 20% can be attributed to natural causes such as lightning.

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Fires can also travel great distances rather quickly. Forest fires have been known to spread at a pace of approximately 6 miles-per-hour (9.6 km/h) in forested areas, and up to 14 miles-per-hour (22.5 km/h) in grasslands. Additionally, if you have an upward slope in the terrain, fires can spread even faster, as an extra 10 degrees of slope can double the speed of fire spreading.

It has also been shown that fires can jump cleared areas, or cross breaks in landscapes, such as streams, rivers or bodies of water, in what has been known as an ‘ember attack’. This can occur when tall trees catch fire, and their twigs, leaves or pieces of debris are carried by the wind, still partially aflame. The wind can carry these up to hundreds of feet through the air, and any flammable substance that comes into contact can then catch fire also.

Typically, dependent on the type of vegetation present, wildfire’s can be sub-categorized more specifically as forest fires, grass fires, brush fires, peat fires, desert fires, among others. It’s generally understood however that a wildfire is any fire that is unplanned and unwanted. Wildfire severity and spread is dependent upon a combination of factors such as available fuel sources, physical setting of the landscape and the current weather patterns.

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From the B.C. OH&S Code Part 23: Oil and Gas

Section 23.10 – Fire Extinguishers

(1) Non-freezing fire extinguishers, other firefighting equipment and firefighting personnel must be provided as required by subsection (2) (3) and (4) and Table 23-1

(4) Firefighting equipment must meet the requirements of NFPA 10, Portable Fire Extinguishers, 1990 Edition.

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Conclusion

While there are instances of industrial fires that start due to factors outside human control, for the most part, industrial fires are preventable and accidental. Fire safety is a set of practices intended to prevent the ignition of an uncontrolled fire, and to establish a set standard of procedures for response.

Throughout the course we discussed: Fire prevention strategies (hazard identification and elimination), how to react if encountering a fire, emergency response methods(evacuation), how to decipher different classes of fire and in operation of their corresponding extinguisher types as well as how fire reacts with different fuels and chemicals. These topics are covered so to provide a pro-active approach to fire safety so that you have a baseline understanding of what to do to

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prevent it, and also how to react in a safe and appropriate manner should you encounter a fire. No two situations are going to be identical in the event if a fire. This is why it is so important to have a clear understanding of your site-specific procedure for evacuation (emergency exits and emergency escape routes/muster station), and be well aware of hazards that involve fire or combustible/flammable materials in your scope of work.

It is a mandated requirement for employers/site authority to provide a pre-existing plan and train their employees/management for the event of a fire-related emergency. Employers are required to inform employees during their initial job assignment and as conditions change about fire hazards to which they may be exposed, subsequent evacuation, and muster procedures specific to the work site and designated area.

Follow all safety and regulatory guidelines as outlined by your site specific, company policy and government organizations.

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