How to Use a Fire Extinguisher in a Commercial Setting

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

It is important that all members of your staff know how to properly use a fire extinguisher. A fire is the most common emergency a business must plan for according to OSHA. A small kitchen fire may be able to be contained with an extinguisher. They can also be used to help protect evacuation routes.

OSHA requires that employees be trained how to use these tools and how to determine when evacuation is the best choice by assessing the situation.

Use

PASS is a simple training method that can help you and your employees remember the correct way to operate a fire extinguisher.

• Pull
• Aim
• Squeeze
• Sweep

You start by removing the pin. You next want to aim the spray nozzle at the base of the fire and squeeze the trigger on the handle. Use a sweeping motion while aiming the end of the nozzle at the base of the fire.

Considerations

A small extinguisher is a great tool to reduce fire damage and potentially save lives by preventing fires from getting out of control, but their use is limited. Fire extinguishers are only effective on small fires. It is important for employees to know when to evacuate.

If a fire is too large, it is time to evacuate. If flammable solvents are involved, the fire can’t be reached from a standing position or is partially hidden by the ceiling or a wall, everyone should leave the building immediately, and leave the firefighting to the professionals in Chattanooga, TN.

If the room or office fills with smoke, don’t risk it. You may need some form of respiratory protection. Get out of the building. You need to be able to get within ten to fifteen feet of a fire for a fire extinguisher to be effective. If the radiated heat prevents you from getting close enough, the safest thing for you to do is follow the office evacuation plan.

Office fires may be more common than you think. It is important that you and your employees know how to safely act in various situations that involve fires.
Visit http://www.SERVPROeastchattanooga.com for more information on commercial fire damage.