Fire Triangle
The fire triangle or combustion triangle is a combination of three elements: fuel, heat, and an oxidizing agent (oxygen). The right proportion of these three elements must be combined for a fire to occur. When starting a fire, heat is the most important element, fuel (such as chemicals, wood, paper, etc.) is the second most important element, and oxygen to maintain the fire is the third most important element. The fire triangle can help to prevent fires at the workplace if it is part of the fire protection program. The cause of workplace fires is often friction from heat, cutting metals improperly, welding, improperly storing flammable materials, open flames, and smoking. The best way to prevent fires at the workplace is to have a written fire prevention program, which includes all fire hazards, fire controls, an emergency action plan, and training/education for all employees in accordance with OSHA requirements.
- The Plan must Include:
- List of all fire hazards at workplace.
- Procedure for safe handling/storage.
- Potential ignition sources (smoking, welding, etc.).
- Separation of incompatible materials.
- Proper construction and storage.
- Proper ventilation.
- Unobstructed exits.
- Fire prevention strategy, including containment procedures to reduce the potential spread of fire.
- The name of the employees responsible for the maintenance of fire controlling equipment and systems (i.e. fire extinguishers/sprinklers).
- Training:
- All employees must be trained for fire emergency procedures.
- New employees must be trained and understand the fire prevention program.
- Employees who are responsible for using extinguishers must be trained accordingly.
- The written plan must be available for all employees at the workplace to review
- Emergency telephone numbers should be available at the workplace.