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174 Healthcare: Fire Safety
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Additional Areas of Concern

Extension Cord Daisy Chains

Because of the need to have equipment plugged in, hospitals should not use extension cords to chain the equipment together. Extension cords are a violation, and they can become overheated, sparking a fire.

Carts, wheelchairs, and medical equipment must not block fire exit doors.

Fire Door Compliance

Hospital fire doors must close or latch correctly. Be sure they do not have holes in them, which would cause them to no longer be fireproof.

Fire Exit Obstructions

Carts, wheelchairs, and medical equipment must not block fire exit doors.

Portable Fire Extinguishers

Employers must ensure portable fire extinguishers are in areas that are not obstructed, are properly mounted, and have not been previously discharged. Employers must also ensure that portable fire extinguishers are not past due inspection.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-3. If a fire door has holes in it, _____