Hazards that Cause Fires
Electrical Hazards. Electrical system failures and the misuse of electrical equipment are leading causes of workplace fires. Fires can result from loose ground connections, wiring with frayed insulation, or overloaded fuses, circuits, motors, or outlets.
Portable Heaters. All portable heaters should be approved by the plan administrator. Portable electric heaters should have tip-over protection that automatically shuts off the unit when it is tipped over.
Office Fire Hazards. Fire risks are not limited to industrial facilities. Fires in offices have become more likely because of the increased use of electrical equipment, such as computers and fax machines.
Welding, Cutting, and Open Flame Work. Welding and cutting and working with open flames are obvious fire hazards in the workplace, and in some cases, fire watches need to be positioned close by, and barriers may need to be placed between welding and materials that might catch fire.
Flammable and Combustible Materials. If your workplace contains flammable and combustible materials, the plan administrator should regularly evaluate the presence of those materials.
- Class A Combustibles. These include common combustible materials (wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and plastics) that can act as fuel and are found in non-specialized areas such as offices.
- Class B Combustibles. These include flammable and combustible liquids (oils, greases, tars, oil-based paints, and lacquers), flammable gases, and flammable aerosols.
Smoking in the Workplace. In an effective FPP, smoking is prohibited in all company buildings. Certain outdoor areas may also be designated as no-smoking areas. The areas in which smoking is prohibited outdoors should be identified by NO SMOKING signs.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
6-5. Fires in offices have become more likely because of _____.
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