Work Site Fire Emergencies

Most construction workers have seen a variety of injuries on the job. But very few have experienced the damage of a work site fire. As a result, most of these workers know very little about injuries caused by fires, and they are not particularly concerned with fire prevention on the job.

Some Facts

• Industrial fires are caused by a variety of hazards including: unprotected or faulty equipment, unsafe storage of combustible materials, inadequate ventilation and failure to follow established safety guidelines.

• Nationally, in a single year, 14,390 construction injuries were the result of fires or explosives.

• There are many varieties of fire extinguishers, each rated according to the type(s) of fires it can put out. Extinguishers are rated A,B,C and D.
  • Type A: wood, paper, cloth, rubbish, etc.
  • Type B: Flammable gas/liquids (oil, grease, paint)
  • Type C: Electrical fires
  • Type D: Combustible metals

It Really Happens

A Sacramento worker was sanding a floor with an electric sander when he hit a nail in the floor. The resulting spark ignited some solvent nearby burning his face, arms and legs. The fire was controlled, but the worker missed weeks of work and he was permanently scarred. Had the solvent been stored in a safe place, this could have been prevented.

Employer's Role

• Have a fire prevention plan. The plan should describe the type of fire protection system and/or equipment.

• Teach employees about the fire hazards of the materials and processes to which they are exposed.

• Be sure your local fire dept. is familiar with your facility, its location, and specific hazards.

Worker's Role

• Store flammable/combustible materials in appropriate containers away from heat sources.

• Keep work and refuse areas clean and free of debris. Dispose of flammables.

• Never leave open flames unattended.

• Use caution when operating welding and other spark-producing equipment.

• Clean (if appropriate) or report all spills.

Discussing Work Site Fire Emergencies

• Has anyone experienced smoke or fire on the job site?

• What is the first thing you should do when a fire starts on the job?

• Under what conditions should you try and extinguish a fire yourself? When should you call for help?

• Do you know where the fire extinguishers are located?