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Fire
Prevention
Fire Prevention
Week is October 5 -11, 2003. Fire safety is an extremely
important part of any workplace safety program. It's everyone's
responsibility to help prevent fires. On September 24, there was
a dumpster fire behind building 5. In order to prevent this in the
future, smokers must observe all smoking restrictions. Ash receptacles
must be utilized for smoking materials disposal. GSFC prohibits
smoking inside all buildings and facilities and at designated building
main entrances. Smoking in unauthorized areas such as storage rooms
can result in serious fires. Do not empty ash receptacles until
smoking materials are cold.
Fire Safety
Is Everyone's Responsibility
Here are some fire-safe tips:
Practice good
worksite housekeeping habits. Do not let trash and waste material
accumulate. Empty trash bins regularly. Oily rags must be stored
and disposed of in covered metal containers, according to company
policy.
Do not store
materials or allow clutter to accumulate around exits and stairways.
Fire doors should be kept closed as directed. Fire exits should
always remain free and accessible.
A common cause
of workplace fires is machinery or equipment, which becomes overheated.
Be sure to follow operating guidelines to prevent overloading. Follow
manufacturer's instructions in using and maintaining equipment.
Electrical
malfunctions are also a major contributor to fires in the workplace.
Electrical equipment should be checked regularly for signs of trouble
such as damaged cords or worn insulation. Never overload circuits,
and never force circuit breakers to remain in the "on"
position. Only qualified and authorized personnel should carry out
electrical repairs and maintenance, but everyone is responsible
for being alert to the signs of electrical malfunction.
It is important
to understand the fire hazards of the materials with which you work.
They may be combustible, flammable, explosive or reactive. Read
the labels and know where to locate the Material Safety Data Sheet
for further information. Carefully follow any instructions when
you are using any materials, which might pose hazards.
Observe company
security policies and be alert to any suspicious persons or activities.
Many workplace fires are set by arsonists; do your part to prevent
these incidents.
Know what to
do in case of a fire. Make sure your safety training includes this
information:
- What is your
responsibility in case of fire - to report the fire, fight it
or evacuate the building?
-
Where is the
fire alarm located? Where
are the fire extinguishers located? Do you know how to use them,
and on what kinds of fires?
- Do you know
how to use other fire emergency equipment such as fire blankets,
hoses and sprinklers?
- What safety
procedures should you carry out in case of a fire? Are you responsible
for shutting down equipment or operations before you leave?
- Do you know
where you and your co-workers are supposed to meet for a head
count after evacuating the plant?
Everyone has
a responsibility for preventing fire. It is up to you to report
any unsafe situation, and to correct it if you are qualified and
authorized to do so.
For additional
information see:
http://www.nfpa.org/FPW/index.asp
http://www.nfpa.org/FPW/Kids_Area/kids_area.asp
http://www.nfpa.org/sparky/
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