Most fires in workplaces are prevented, not fought. Two written plans organize this. One says what to do when a fire starts. The other says how to stop fires from starting.
The emergency action plan: 29 CFR 1910.38
An employer must have an EAP and a fire prevention plan whenever an OSHA standard requires one. The fire extinguisher standard relies on both plans. The emergency action plan (EAP) covers fires and other emergencies. It must be in writing, kept in the workplace, and available for employees to review. An employer with 10 or fewer employees may explain the plan orally instead.
The plan must include at least:
- how to report a fire or other emergency;
- evacuation procedures and exit route assignments;
- procedures for employees who must stay behind briefly to run critical equipment before they leave;
- a way to account for all employees after evacuation;
- procedures for employees who do rescue or medical duties;
- the names or job titles of the people to ask for more information.
Alarms and training
- The employer must have and maintain an employee alarm system that uses a distinctive signal for each purpose, so a fire alarm is not mistaken for another signal (29 CFR 1910.165).
- The employer must designate and train some employees to help others evacuate safely and in order.
- The employer must review the plan with you when you start, when your role in the plan changes, and when the plan changes.
If you have not seen your workplace's plan, ask for it.
The fire prevention plan: 29 CFR 1910.39
The fire prevention plan (FPP) must also be in writing (oral for 10 or fewer employees). It must include:
- a list of the major fire hazards in the workplace;
- how to handle and store hazardous materials safely;
- the ignition sources and how they are controlled;
- the fire protection equipment needed for each major hazard;
- how to control build-up of flammable and combustible waste;
- regular maintenance of safeguards on heat-producing equipment;
- the names or job titles of people responsible for maintaining equipment and for controlling fuel hazards.
The employer must tell you about the fire hazards you are exposed to when you start, and review the parts of the plan that you need to protect yourself.
Everyday prevention
Employees can do a lot:
- Keep waste, paper and cardboard from piling up, especially near heaters and electrical panels.
- Store flammable liquids in proper safety containers and cabinets. Keep lids closed.
- Keep space heaters and cooking appliances away from combustibles and never leave them unattended.
- Do not overload outlets or use damaged cords.
- Follow hot work rules for welding or cutting. These often need a permit.
- Do not prop open fire doors.
- Report smoke smells, hot cords or sparks at once.
Exits and alarms
Under 29 CFR 1910.36 and 1910.37:
- exit routes must be clear, unlocked from the inside and free of obstructions such as stored boxes;
- exits must be marked and lit so that people can find them;
- alarms and other safeguards must be kept in working order.
Never block an exit, a fire door or access to an extinguisher or alarm pull station, even briefly.
Total evacuation or not
Your EAP tells you which kind of workplace you have:
- Total evacuation: on the alarm everyone leaves. Nobody fights fires except trained responders.
- Limited firefighting: a group of designated employees may use extinguishers on small fires, after they have raised the alarm.
Key points
- Both plans must be written and kept in the workplace (oral is allowed with 10 or fewer employees) and reviewed with you.
- The EAP covers reporting, exit routes, accounting for people and alarms.
- The FPP covers hazards, ignition sources, waste and equipment.
- Keep exits and extinguishers clear.
- Learn which kind of plan your workplace uses.