OSH DRO1113 Fire Hazards & Control

Fire Hazards & Control

• Key learning outcomes include identifying fire hazards, evaluating fire risks, understanding fire prevention principles, and knowing appropriate alarm and firefighting equipment for workplaces.

Fire Triangle

• Fire requires three elements to ignite: ignition source, fuel, and oxygen.
• Removal of any element can extinguish fire.

Sources of Ignition

• Naked flames like candles or matches.
• Sparks, either external (from outside sources) or internal (from equipment).
• Hot surfaces that can ignite materials nearby.
• Static electricity from friction or movements.

Sources of Fuel

• Common solid fuels include wood, paper, cardboard, and rubber.
• Flammable liquids consist of paints, varnishes, thinners, adhesives, and petrol.
• Flammable gases include LPG, acetylene, and hydrogen.

Role of Oxygen

• Oxygen is abundant in the air; conditions can be influenced by wind or ventilation, increasing fire intensity.
• Certain chemicals release oxygen during combustion, negating the need for external air.

Methods of Extinction

• Cooling involves using water to lower fire temperature.
• Smothering limits available oxygen through foam or fire blankets.
• Starving focuses on reducing or eliminating fuel sources.
• Chemical methods interrupt the combustion chain reaction.

Fire Classification

• Class A: Solids (e.g., wood, paper).
• Class B: Liquids (e.g., petrol).
  • B1: Water-soluble (e.g., methanol).
  • B2: Not water-soluble (e.g., oil).
• Class C: Gases (e.g., propane).
• Class D: Metals (e.g., aluminum).
• Class E: Electrical equipment.
• Class F: High-temperature cooking oils.

Principles of Heat Transmission & Fire Spread

• Fire spreads heat through convection, conduction, radiation, and direct burning.
• Smoke spreads horizontally, can fill spaces, and moves through openings rapidly, posing risks.

Consequences of Fire

• Fatalities due to smoke inhalation, burns, or combined effects.
• Personal injuries and damage to buildings, ecosystems, and transportation.
• Economic impacts including business losses and job cuts.

Control Measures for Fire Hazards

• Minimize dangerous substances and control their release.
• Prevent ignition sources and manage incompatible materials.
• Use ventilation for collecting and safely removing hazardous materials.

Emergency Escape Routes

• Essential for quick evacuation; routes must be kept clear and marked.
• Dual escape routes should lead in different directions to safety.
• Doors should open easily and not be obstructed, with adequate lighting.

Fire Detection & Warning Systems

• Fire alarms and detectors should be installed in strategic locations.
• Systems must provide audible warnings and connect to emergency services.

Fire Plans

• Fire plans must be visibly posted, detailing escape routes, fire safety signs, and emergency exits.
• Include locations of alarms, emergency lights, and PPE.

Escape Route Requirements

• Routes must allow scanning for hazards while escaping and accommodate high foot traffic.
• Doors leading from high-risk areas or potentially crowded spaces should open outward.

Fire Drill Considerations

• Evacuation time should not exceed 2-3 minutes; regular drills assess efficiency.
• Reaction time must be brief; additional escape routes may be necessary if prolonged.

Fixed Fire Fighting Equipment

• Sprinkler systems are effective for fire control, designed for specific fire hazards.
• Installation must consider building occupancy and potential fire load.

Workplace Fire Emergency Plans

• Plans must outline actions upon discovering a fire, evacuation procedures, and contacting emergency services.
• Include the method for raising an alarm and designated assembly points for personnel.

This quiz covers Topic 11 of the OSH DRO1113 course, focusing on fire hazards and control in the workplace. You will learn to identify fire risks, understand fire prevention principles, and recognize appropriate firefighting equipment. Test your knowledge of fire safety measures and emergency escape plans.