Guides & Toolkits

8 © 2011, Safe Workplace Promotion Services Ontario, publicly known as Workplace Safety & Prevention Services. 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | www.wsps.ca Fire Extinguishers Extinguisher use As soon as a fire is discovered: Sound the alarm and start to evacuate Call the fire department These are important steps for everyone's safety, even if you feel the fire can be brought under control by using an extinguisher. Tips for safe extinguisher use: Test that the extinguisher works before you approach the fire. Protect yourself at all times. Take care. Speed is essential but it is more important to be cautious. Keep your back to the exit at all times and stand 2 to 2.4m (6 to 8 ft.) away from the fire. Follow the 4-step P-A-S-S procedure: 1. Pull the pin (release the lock latch or press the punch lever) 2. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire 3. Squeeze or press the trigger 4. Sweep the extinguisher from side to side If the fire does not go out immediately or the extinguisher appears to be getting empty, leave the area at once. Back out with the lever squeezed and the nozzle pointed at your feet. This will help protect you until you are out of the area. Employee Training All employees who may be required to use fire extinguishers should receive training. Training should cover: Extinguisher locations Classes of fire most likely to occur in your workplace and the proper extinguishers to use Markings on extinguishers When and how to use extinguishers Importance of sounding the alarm Health and safety hazards Personal protective equipment Use lectures and demonstrations, and give employees plenty of opportunity to practice using extinguishers. Consider having them practice on extinguishers that need recharging. With increased confidence, employees are more likely to respond effectively to fire emergencies. Make sure employees are aware of the operating instructions posted by extinguishers. Provide retraining as needed. What the Law says Occupational Health and Safety Act Section 123 of the Regulation for Industrial Establishments (R.R.O. 851/90) specifies that the requirements of the Fire Code respecting fire extinguishers apply at industrial establishments. Ontario Fire Code (Ontario Regulation 213/07) Section 6.2 contains requirements with respect to fire extinguishers: 6.2.1 – General; 6.2.2 – Classification; 6.2.3 – Selection requirements; 6.2.4 – Installation requirements; Clause 6.2.4.1.(1) specifies that portable extinguishers shall be installed in every building; 6.2.5 – Grading of hazards; 6.2.6 – Distribution; 6.2.7 – Inspection, testing and maintenance The following subsections contain requirements for extinguishers in specific locations: 2.12.1.5 – Covered mall 3.2.1.5 – Woodworking operations

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