Planning for Workplace Emergencies · This course provides an overview of OSHA standards for...

Planning for Workplace Emergencies

OSHA requires employers to develop and maintain emergency action plans and fire prevention plans to help ensure their employees are protected and to minimize prop-erty loss due to emergency situations. This two-hour course is an introduction to three emergency preparedness topics: the elements of an effective Emergency Action Plan (EAP), exit route requirements, and the Fire Prevention and Protection Plan (FPP).

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OSHAcademy Course 629 Study Guide

Planning for Workplace Emergencies

Copyright © 2018 Geigle Safety Group, Inc.

No portion of this text may be reprinted for other than personal use. Any commercial use of this document is strictly forbidden.

Contact OSHAcademy to arrange for use as a training document.

This study guide is designed to be reviewed off-line as a tool for preparation to successfully complete OSHAcademy Course 629.

Read each module, answer the quiz questions, and submit the quiz questions online through the course webpage. You can print the post-quiz response screen which will contain the correct answers to the questions.

The final exam will consist of questions developed from the course content and module quizzes.

We hope you enjoy the course and if you have any questions, feel free to email or call:

OSHAcademy

15220 NW Greenbrier Parkway, Suite 230 Beaverton, Oregon 97006 www.oshatrain.org [email protected] +1 (888) 668-9079

Disclaimer

This document does not constitute legal advice. Consult with your own company counsel for advice on compliance with all applicable state and

federal regulations. Neither Geigle Safety Group, Inc., nor any of its employees, subcontractors, consultants, committees, or other assignees

make any warranty or representation, either express or implied, with respect to the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of the information

contained herein, or assume any liability or responsibility for any use, or the results of such use, of any information or process disclosed in this

publication. GEIGLE SAFETY GROUP, INC., DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESS OR IMPLIED INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY

WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Taking actions suggested in this document does not guarantee

that an employer, employee, operator or contractor will be in compliance with applicable regulations. Ultimately every company is responsible

for determining the applicability of the information in this document to its own operations. Each employer’s safety management system will be

different. Mapping safety and environmental management policies, procedures, or operations using this document does not guarantee

compliance regulatory requirements.

mailto:[email protected]

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Contents

Modules and Learning Objectives .................................................................................................. 1

Course Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 3

Module 1: Emergency Action Plan (EAP) ........................................................................................ 4

Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 4

Do you need an EAP? .................................................................................................................. 5

Elements of the EAP ................................................................................................................ 5

Reporting Emergencies ............................................................................................................... 6

Evacuation Procedures ............................................................................................................... 7

Designate Evacuation Coordinators ........................................................................................... 8

Assisting Others to Evacuate ...................................................................................................... 9

Employees Who May Remain to Shut Down ............................................................................ 10

Accounting for Employees ........................................................................................................ 11

Active Shooter Emergencies ..................................................................................................... 12

How to Respond to Active Shooter Emergencies ................................................................. 12

Fire, Rescue, and Medical Services ........................................................................................... 15

Module 2: Exit Route Requirements ............................................................................................. 16

Basic Requirements .................................................................................................................. 16

Number of Exits......................................................................................................................... 17

Exit Discharge ............................................................................................................................ 18

Locking Arrangements .............................................................................................................. 18

Door Swing ................................................................................................................................ 19

Exit Route Capacity ................................................................................................................... 19

Height and Width Requirements .............................................................................................. 20

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Outdoor Exit Routes .................................................................................................................. 20

Module 3: Fire Prevention and Protection Plans .......................................................................... 22

Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 22

FPP Responsibilities .................................................................................................................. 23

Management ......................................................................................................................... 23

Plan Administrator ................................................................................................................ 23

Supervisors ............................................................................................................................ 23

Employees ............................................................................................................................. 23

Written Plan Components ........................................................................................................ 24

FPP Best Practices ................................................................................................................. 25

Hazards that Cause Fires ........................................................................................................... 26

Electrical Hazards .................................................................................................................. 26

Portable Heaters ................................................................................................................... 26

Office Fires Hazards .............................................................................................................. 26

Welding, Cutting, and Open Flame Work ............................................................................. 26

Flammable and Combustible Materials ................................................................................ 26

Smoking in the Workplace .................................................................................................... 27

Fire Extinguishing Systems ........................................................................................................ 27

Fixed Extinguishing Systems ................................................................................................. 27

Portable Extinguishing Systems ............................................................................................ 28

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher ................................................................................................. 28

FPP Training Requirements ....................................................................................................... 29

Additional Resources .................................................................................................................... 31

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Copyright © 2018 Geigle Safety Group, Inc. Page 1 of 31

Modules and Learning Objectives

Module 1: The Emergency Action Plan (EAP)

Learning objectives in this module include:

• List key elements in the Emergency Action Plan (EAP).

• Discuss reporting requirements under the EAP.

• Describe a typical evacuation procedure if a fire occurs.

• Describe evacuation warden requirements and duties.

• Discuss requirements for employees who do not evacuate.

• Discuss requirements for accounting for employees and assembly areas.

• Describe how individuals can respond in an active shooter emergency.

• Identify important points when coordinating with fire, rescue, and medical services.

Module 2: Exit Route Requirements


• Define the terms "exit," "exit access," and "exit discharge."

• Describe the basic requirements for exit design, location, and use.

• Discuss the factors that determine the number of exits.

• Describe the requirements for door swing, locking, and outside exit doors.

• Describe the importance of training and retraining proper use of exits during

emergencies.

Module 3: Fire Prevention and Protection Plans


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• Describe responsibilities for Fire Prevention Plan (FPP) managers and administrators.

• Discuss FPP responsibilities for supervisors and employees.

• Describe the requirement for a written FPP and identify components.

• Identify at least five best practices under the FPP.

• Identify and describe the two primary types of fire extinguishing systems.

• Describe the PASS method for using fire extinguishers.

• List and give examples of the various fire hazards in the workplace.

• Describe FPP education and training requirements for managers, supervisors, and

employees.

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Course Introduction

Several Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards explicitly require

employers to have Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) for their workplaces. Emergency

preparedness is a well-known concept in protecting workers' safety and health. To help

employers, safety and health professionals, training directors, and others, the OSHA

requirements for emergencies are compiled and summarized in this course.

Fire safety becomes everyone's job at a worksite. Employers must develop Fire Prevention

Plans (FPPs) and train workers about fire hazards in the workplace and what to do in a fire

emergency. If you want your workers to evacuate, you should train them on how to escape. If

you expect your workers to use firefighting equipment, you must give them appropriate

equipment and train them to use the equipment safely.

More information on this topic may be seen in the following OSHAcademy courses: The

Emergency Action Plan (See course 717), Fire Prevention and Protection Plan (See course 718),

along with a Violence Prevention Plan (See course 720). These three plans should be integrated

into an overall Emergency Preparedness Program to protect employees and help ensure

continuity of the organization's business services.

This course provides an overview of OSHA standards for emergencies contained within OSHA

1910.38, Emergency Action Plans, and 1910.39, Fire Prevention Plans. It is not intended to alter

or determine compliance responsibilities in OSHA standards or the Occupational Safety and

Health Act of 1970. Please review the current OSHA standards applicable to your work

operations to ensure your compliance.

https://www.oshatrain.org/courses/mods/717e.html



https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=STANDARDS&p_id=9726



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Module 1: Emergency Action Plan (EAP)

Introduction

How would you escape from your workplace in an emergency? Do you know where all the exits

are in case your first choice is too crowded? Are you sure the doors will be unlocked and the

exit route, such as a hallway, will not be blocked during a fire, explosion, or other crisis?

Knowing the answers to these questions could keep you safe during an emergency.

An emergency action plan (EAP) is a written document required by OSHA standard 1910.38. The

purpose of an EAP is to facilitate and organize employer and employee actions during

workplace emergencies.

Well-developed emergency plans and proper employee training (such that employees

understand their roles and responsibilities within the plan) will result in fewer and less severe

employee injuries and less structural damage to the facility during emergencies. A poorly

prepared plan, likely will lead to a disorganized evacuation or emergency response, resulting in

confusion, injury, and property damage.

Emergency action plans must be written. However, for smaller companies, the plan does not

need to be written and may be communicated orally if there are 10 or fewer employees.

Quiz Instructions

After each section, there is a quiz question. Make sure to read the material in each section to

discover the correct answer to these questions. Circle the correct answer. When you are

finished go online to take the final exam. This exam is open book, so you can use this study

guide.

1. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) may be written or communicated orally if there are

fewer than _____ employees.

a. 5 b. 10 c. 15 d. 20


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Do you need an EAP?

Your company may be required by OSHA to establish an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) if you

meet certain criteria. Check out the diagram to the right to see if your company needs an EAP.

You can also find more information on establishing an EAP from OSHA Pub 2088, How to Plan

for Workplace Emergencies and Evacuations.

Elements of the EAP

At a minimum, the plan must include but is not limited to the following elements:

• Means of reporting fires and other emergencies,

• Evacuation procedures and emergency escape route assignments,

• Procedures for employees who remain to operate critical plant operations before they

evacuate,

• Accounting for all employees after an emergency evacuation has been completed,

• Rescue and medical duties for employees performing them, and

• Names or job titles of persons who can be contacted.

Although they are not specifically required by OSHA, employers may find it helpful to include

the following in the EAP:

• A description of the alarm system to be used to notify employees (including disabled

employees) to evacuate and/or take other actions. The alarms used for different actions

should be distinctive and might include horn blasts, sirens, or even public address

systems.

• The site of an alternative communications center to be used in the event of a fire or

explosion.

• A secure on- or offsite location to store originals or duplicate copies of accounting

records, legal documents, your employees' emergency contact lists, and other essential

records.

https://www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3088.pdf


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2. Which of the following is a MANDATORY element in the Emergency Action Plan (EAP)?

a. Alternate communications center b. Description of alarm systems c. Means of reporting fires and other emergencies d. Secure offsite storage areas

Reporting Emergencies

Employees must know how to report emergencies. Some use internal telephone numbers,

intercom, or public address systems to notify other employees. It is important for employees to

also notify the proper authorities such as fire, medical, or rescue services, if your company

relies on this type of assistance during an emergency.

There are preferred procedures for reporting emergencies such as dialing 911, or an internal

emergency number, or pulling a manual fire alarm but there are many other possibilities.

• Dialing "911" is a common method for reporting emergencies if external emergency

personnel are used at your workplace.

• Internal numbers may be used for reporting emergencies. If they are, they should be

posted on, or near, each phone. Internal numbers sometimes are connected to intercom

systems so that coded announcements may be made.

• Employees may be requested to activate manual pull stations or other alarm systems.

No matter what system is used, it is imperative emergency situations be immediately reported.

Fires and other emergency situations can reach dangerous levels in seconds and any delay in

getting emergency responders to the scene can result in additional loss of life and property.

3. Which of the following are common methods of reporting emergencies in the

workplace?

a. Dialing 911, internal phone numbers, and manual alarms b. Cell phones, shortwave radio, and external numbers c. VOIP calls, cell phones, and visual alarms d. Radio communications, intercoms, and local emergency numbers

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Evacuation Procedures

Evacuation policies, procedures, and escape route assignments are put into place so that

employees understand who is authorized to order an evacuation, under what conditions an

evacuation would be necessary, how to evacuate, and what routes to take. Exit diagrams are

typically used to identify the escape routes to be followed by employees from each specific

facility location.

Evacuation procedures also often describe actions employees should take before and while

evacuating such as shutting windows, turning off equipment, and closing doors behind them.

Under the typical EAP, the employer will expect all employees to evacuate in an emergency.

However, sometimes a critical decision may need to be made when planning - whether

employees should be trained and responsible for extinguishing small (controllable) fires.

A disorganized evacuation can result in confusion, injury, and property damage. When

developing the emergency action plan, it is important to determine the following:

• conditions under which an evacuation would be necessary

• conditions under which it may be better to shelter-in-place

• a clear chain of command and designation of the person in your business authorized to

order an evacuation or shutdown

• specific evacuation procedures, including routes and exits

• specific evacuation procedures for high-rise buildings for employers and employees

• procedures for assisting visitors and employees to evacuate, particularly those with

disabilities or who do not speak English

• designation of what, if any, employees will remain after the evacuation alarm to shut

down critical operations or perform other duties before evacuating

• a means of accounting for employees after an evacuation

• special equipment for employees

• appropriate respirators

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During development and implementation of your draft plan, think about all possible emergency

situations and evaluate your workplace to see if it complies with OSHA's emergency standards.

4. Under the typical Emergency Action Plan (EAP), the employer may assign some

employees to _____.

a. aggressively respond to uncontrollable releases of hazardous substances b. fight all fires, no matter how big they are c. extinguish small fires that are controllable d. attempt rescue of trapped employees

Designate Evacuation Coordinators

When drafting your emergency action plan, you may wish to select a responsible individual to

lead and coordinate your emergency plan and evacuation. It is critical that employees know

who the coordinator is and understand that person has the authority to make decisions during

emergencies.

The coordinator should be responsible for the following:

• Assessing the situation to determine whether an emergency exists requiring activation

of your emergency procedures;

• Supervising all efforts in the area, including evacuating personnel;

• Coordinating outside emergency services, such as medical aid and local fire

departments, and ensuring they are available and notified when necessary; and

• Directing the shutdown of plant operations when required.

You also may find it beneficial to coordinate the action plan with other employers when several

employers share the worksite, although OSHA standards do not specifically require this.

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5. In an effective Emergency Action Plan, who is designated as the person responsible for

coordinating outside emergency services and ensuring that they are available and notified

when necessary?

a. Safety managers b. Firefighting teams c. Evacuation wardens d. Evacuation coordinators

Assisting Others to Evacuate

Many employers designate individuals as evacuation wardens to help move employees from

danger to safe areas during an emergency. Generally, one evacuation warden for every 20

employees should be adequate, and the appropriate number of wardens should be available at

all times during working hours.

Evacuation wardens may be responsible for checking offices, bathrooms, and other spaces

before being the last person to exit an area. They might also be tasked with ensuring that fire

doors are closed when exiting.

Employees designated to assist in emergency evacuation procedures should:

• be trained in the complete workplace layout and various alternative escape routes if the

primary evacuation route becomes blocked, and

• be made aware of employees with special needs (who may require extra assistance

during an evacuation), how to use the buddy system, and any hazardous areas to avoid

during an emergency evacuation.

Visitors also should be accounted for following an evacuation and may need additional

assistance when exiting. Some employers have all visitors and contractors sign in when entering

the workplace and use this list when accounting for all persons in the assembly area. The hosts

and/or area wardens, if established, are often tasked with helping these individuals safely

evacuate.

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6. Generally, how many available evacuation wardens is considered adequate during work

hours?

a. Two on each floor of the building b. One for every 20 employees c. Two for every 10 employees d. One for each department

Employees Who May Remain to Shut Down

Large companies may have certain equipment and processes that must be shut down in stages

or over time. In other instances, it is not possible or practical for employees to stay behind to

shut down equipment or processes under emergency situations and everyone must evacuate.

However, smaller enterprises may require designated employees to remain behind briefly to

operate fire extinguishers or shut down gas and/or electrical systems and other special

equipment that could be damaged if left operating or create additional hazards to emergency

responders (such as releasing hazardous materials).

Each employer must review their operation and determine whether total and immediate

evacuation is possible for various types of emergencies. The preferred approach, and the one

most often taken by small enterprises, is immediate evacuation of all their employees when the

evacuation alarm is sounded.

If any employees will stay behind, the plan must describe in detail the procedures to be

followed by these employees.

• All employees remaining behind must be capable of recognizing when to abandon the

operation or task and evacuate themselves before their egress path is blocked.

• In small establishments it is common to include in the plan locations where utilities

(such as electrical and gas) can be shut down for all or part of the facility either by

company employees or by emergency response personnel.

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7. Why are some employees designated to stay behind and not evacuate immediately

when an emergency occurs?

a. They are responsible for looking for stragglers b. They will aggressively attack all releases of hazardous substances c. They may be needed for contain and clean up hazardous substances d. They may operate fire extinguishers, shut-off valves, and breakers

Accounting for Employees

Procedures to account for employees after the evacuation to ensure that everyone got out may

include designating employees to sweep areas, checking offices and restrooms before being the

last to leave a workplace or conducting a roll call in the assembly area. Evacuation wardens can

be helpful in accounting for employees. To ensure the fastest, most accurate accounting of

employees, consider including these steps in the EAP:

• Designate assembly areas or areas Assembly areas, both inside and outside the

workplace, are the locations where employees gather after evacuating.

o Internal assembly areas within the building are often referred to as "areas of

refuge." Make sure the assembly area has sufficient space to accommodate all

employees.

o Exterior assembly areas, used when the building must be partially or completely

evacuated, are typically located in parking lots or other open areas away from

busy streets. Try and designate assembly areas so that employees will be up-

wind of the building.

• Take a head count after the evacuation. Accounting for all employees following an

evacuation is critical. Identify the names and last known locations of anyone not

accounted for and pass them to the official in charge.

• Assembly area design. When designating an assembly area, consider (and try to

minimize) the possibility of employees interfering with rescue operations.

• Account for others. Establish a method for accounting for non-employees such as

suppliers and customers.

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• Additional evacuation. Establish procedures for further evacuation in case the incident

expands. This may consist of sending employees home by normal means or providing

them with transportation to an offsite location.

8. What two types of assembly areas are common in Emergency Action Plans (EAPs)?

a. Internal and External b. Specific and General c. Upwind and Downwind d. On-site and off-site

Active Shooter Emergencies

Although not originally considered as part of the emergency action plan, it's now important to

include training with exercises to plan for the event an active shooter is discovered in the

workplace. Together, the EAP and training exercises will prepare your staff to effectively

respond and help minimize loss of life.

An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a

confined and populated area; in most cases, active shooters use firearm(s) and there is no

pattern or method to their selection of victims.

Active shooter situations are unpredictable and evolve quickly. Typically, the immediate

deployment of law enforcement is required to stop the shooting and mitigate harm to victims.

Because active shooter situations are often over within 10 to 15 minutes, before law

enforcement arrives on the scene, individuals must be prepared both mentally and physically to

deal with an active shooter situation.

How to Respond to Active Shooter Emergencies

Quickly determine the most reasonable way to protect your own life. Remember that

customers and clients are likely to follow the lead of employees and managers during an active

shooter situation. The Department of Homeland Security recommends you take the following

actions:

1. Evacuate: If there is an accessible escape path, attempt to evacuate the premises. Be sure to:

• Have an escape route and plan in mind.

• Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.

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• Leave your belongings behind.

• Help others escape, if possible.

• Prevent individuals from entering an area where the active shooter may be.

• Keep your hands visible.

• Follow the instructions of any police officers.

• Do not attempt to move wounded people.

• Call 911 when you are safe.

Continue to the next section for more information on how to respond to an active shooter

emergency.

9. You must have an active shooter plan because an active shooter emergency _____.

a. is usually over within 10 to 15 minutes b. is very likely in your workplace c. usually ends up with multiple injuries and fatalities d. is not a recognized OSHA concern

2. Hide out. If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide where the active shooter is less

likely to find you.

Your hiding place should:

• Be out of the active shooter’s view.

• Provide protection if shots are fired in your direction (i.e., an office with a closed and

locked door).

• Not trap you or restrict your options for movement.

To prevent an active shooter from entering your hiding place:

• Lock the door.

• Blockade the door with heavy furniture.

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If the active shooter is nearby:

• Lock the door.

• Silence your cell phone and/or pager.

• Turn off any source of noise (i.e., radios, televisions).

• Hide behind large items (i.e., cabinets, desks).

• Remain quiet.

If evacuation and hiding out are not possible:

• Remain calm.

• Dial 911, if possible, to alert police to the active shooter’s location.

• If you cannot speak, leave the line open and allow the dispatcher to listen.

3. Take action against the active shooter. As a last resort, and only when your life is in

imminent danger, DHS recommends that you attempt to disrupt and/or incapacitate the active

shooter by:

• acting as aggressively as possible against him/her

• throwing items and improvising weapons

• yelling

• committing to your actions

10. According to the Department of Homeland Security, you should confront an active

shooter _____.

a. before he or she has a chance to begin shooting b. only as a last resort and imminent danger c. if you cannot find a hiding place d. if others are in danger and no one has a firearm

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Fire, Rescue, and Medical Services

Although most of us quickly move away from the hazardous environments created during

emergency situations, a group of dedicated and well-trained professional emergency

responders and medical service personnel are tasked with containing and mitigating these

incidents, rescuing individuals at-risk, and providing medical assistance to the injured.

Unless the company is a large employer handling hazardous materials and processes or has

employees regularly working in hazardous situations, the company will probably choose to rely

on local public resources to provide these specialized services.

If external departments or agencies, such as the local fire and police departments, medical

clinics or hospitals, and ambulance services, are used, make sure they are prepared to respond

as outlined in the EAP. Make sure they are familiar with the building and any dangerous

locations within the building.

11. What should be confirmed when external agencies are used to respond to the

company's EAP?

a. They must be familiar with the building and dangerous locations b. They must be approved by the local community response team c. They must be able to respond within 15 minutes of the emergency d. They must practice response procedures at least quarterly

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Module 2: Exit Route Requirements

For an Emergency Action Plan to work, it's important that thought and planning is given to exit

routes. An exit route is a continuous and unobstructed path of exit travel from any point within

a workplace to a place of safety. An exit route consists of three parts:

1. Exit access - 29 CFR 1910.36(a)(3) portion of an exit route that leads to an exit.

2. Exit - portion of an exit route that is generally separated from other areas to provide a

protected way of travel to the exit discharge.

3. Exit discharge - part of the exit route that leads directly outside or to a street, walkway,

refuge area, public way, or open space with access to the outside.

Check out this short video that covers exit routes and emergency action plans.

1. Which of the following are criteria for exit routes?

a. There must open inward from the outside b. They must be numerous and properly color-coded c. They must be continuous and unobstructed d. There must be one exit for each 10 employees

Basic Requirements

The following are basic requirements for exit routes in the workplace:

• An exit route must be permanent. Each exit route must be a permanent part of the

workplace.

• An exit must be separated by fire resistant materials. Construction materials used to

separate an exit from other parts of the workplace must have a one-hour fire resistance

rating if the exit connects three or fewer stories and a two-hour fire resistance-rating if

the exit connects four or more stories.

• Openings into an exit must be limited. An exit is permitted to have only those openings

necessary to allow access to the exit from occupied areas of the workplace, or to the

exit discharge.

https://youtu.be/GYoUWKhKQdI

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• Opening must be protected. An opening into an exit must be protected by a self-closing

fire door that remains closed or automatically closes in an emergency upon the

sounding of a fire alarm or employee alarm system. Each fire door, including its frame

and hardware, must be listed or approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

2. Exits must be constructed with materials that have _________ if they connect three or

fewer stories in a building.

a. non-flammable properties b. a one-hour fire resistance rating c. four-hour breakthrough time d. 30-minute penetration rating

Number of Exits

The following are basic requirements for the number and location of exits in the workplace:

• The number of exit routes should be adequate.

• At least two exit routes should be available in a workplace to permit prompt evacuation

of employees and other building occupants during an emergency.

• The exit routes should be located as far away as practical from each other so that if one

exit route is blocked by fire or smoke, employees can evacuate using the second exit

route.

• More than two exit routes should be available in a workplace if the number of

employees, the size of the building, its occupancy, or the arrangement of the workplace

is such that all employees would not be able to evacuate safely during an emergency.

• A single exit route is permitted where the number of employees, the size of the building,

its occupancy, or the arrangement of the workplace is such that all employees would be

able to evacuate safely during an emergency.

For assistance in determining the number of exit routes necessary for your workplace, consult

NFPA 101, Life Safety Code.

https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=101

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3. What determines the number of exits that must be available in a building?

a. NFPA 1910.150, Chapter 7, Ingress and Egress b. The number of employees within a specific worksite c. The ability of all employees to evacuate safely in an emergency d. The type and nature of the building construction

Exit Discharge

The following are requirements for exit discharge:

• Each exit discharge must lead directly outside or to a street, walkway, refuge area,

public way, or open space with access to the outside.

• The street, walkway, refuge area, public way, or open space to which an exit discharge

leads should be large enough to accommodate the building occupants likely to use the

exit route.

• Exit stairs that continue beyond the level on which the exit discharge is located should

be interrupted at that level by doors, partitions, or other effective means that clearly

indicate the direction of travel leading to the exit discharge.

4. Each exit discharge must lead _____.

a. eventually to an outside space or fire-protected room b. directly outside or open space with access to the outside c. to a location that allows employees to access an outside space d. into a safe space with the building or to the outside

Locking Arrangements

The following are requirements for exit door locking arrangements:

• An exit door should be unlocked from the inside.

• Employees should be able to open an exit route door from the inside at all times

without keys, tools, or special knowledge.

• A device such as a panic bar that locks only from the outside is permitted on exit

discharge doors.

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• Exit route doors should be free of any device or alarm that could restrict emergency use

of the exit route if the device or alarm fails.

• An exit route door may be locked from the inside only in mental, penal, or correctional

facilities and then only if supervisory personnel are continuously on duty and the

employer has a plan to remove occupants from the facility during an emergency.

5. When may exit doors be locked?

a. Never, with no exceptions b. In any facility as long as a supervisor is present c. At commercial food facilities with 24/7 workshifts d. At correctional facilities when continuously supervised

Door Swing

The following are requirements related to exit door swing:

• A side-hinged exit door should be used.

• A side-hinged door should be used to connect any room to an exit route.

• The door that connects any room to an exit route must swing out in the direction of exit

travel if the room is designed to be occupied by more than 50 people or if the room is a

high hazard area (i.e., contains contents that are likely to burn with extreme rapidity or

explode).

Exit Route Capacity

• The capacity of an exit route should be adequate.

• Exit routes must support the maximum permitted occupant load for each floor served.

• The capacity of an exit route may not decrease in the direction of exit route travel to the

exit discharge.

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6. The door that connects a room to an exit route must swing out in the direction of exit

travel if the room _____.

a. is capable of holding all evacuees in an emergency b. can occupy more than 50 people or is a high hazard area c. is between the door and the exit discharge d. is regulated by the NFPA

Height and Width Requirements

• An exit route must meet minimum height and width requirements.

• The ceiling of an exit route should be at least seven feet six inches (2.3 m) high. Any

projection from the ceiling must not reach a point less than six feet eight inches (2.0 m)

from the floor.

• An exit access should be at least 28 inches (71.1 cm) wide at all points. Where there is

only one exit access leading to an exit or exit discharge, the width of the exit and exit

discharge should be at least equal to the width of the exit access.

• The width of an exit route should be sufficient to accommodate the maximum

permitted occupant load of each floor served by the exit route.

• Objects that project into the exit route must not reduce the width of the exit route to

less than the minimum width requirements for exit routes.

7. What is the minimum width of an exit route?

a. 28 inches b. 30 inches c. 36 inches d. 42 inches

Outdoor Exit Routes

• An outdoor exit route must have guardrails to protect unenclosed sides if a fall hazard

exists.

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• The outdoor exit route should be covered if snow or ice is likely to accumulate along the

route, unless the employer can demonstrate that any snow or ice accumulation will be

removed before it presents a slipping hazard.

• The outdoor exit route should be reasonably straight and have smooth, solid,

substantially level walkways.

• The outdoor exit route must not have a dead-end that is longer than 20 feet (6.2 m).

8. An outdoor exit route must _____.

a. have a supply of deicer in case of snow or ice accumulation b. not have more than three 90-degree redirections c. not have a dead-end longer than 20 feet d. have guards if a fall hazard of 10 feet or more exists

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Module 3: Fire Prevention and Protection Plans

Introduction

The most important reason to have a Fire Prevention Plan (FPP) is to eliminate the causes of

fire, prevent loss of life, and prevent loss of property by fire. The FPP should be developed to

comply with the OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.39, Fire Prevention Plans. An effective FPP does all

of the following:

• It provides employees with information and guidelines that will assist them in

recognizing, reporting, and controlling fire hazards.

• It identifies materials that are potential fire hazards and their proper handling and

storage procedures.

• It distinguishes potential ignition sources and the proper control procedures of those

materials.

• The plan describes fire protection equipment and/or systems used to control fire

hazards.

• It identifies persons responsible for maintaining the equipment and systems installed to

prevent or control ignition of fires.

• The FPP identifies persons responsible for the control and accumulation of flammable or

combustible material.

• It describes good housekeeping procedures necessary to insure the control of

accumulated flammable and combustible waste material and residues to avoid a fire

emergency.

• The plan provides training to employees with regard to fire hazards to which they may

be exposed.

1. The LEAST important reason to have a Fire Prevention Plan (FPP) is to _____.

a. comply with OSHA b. prevent loss of property by fire c. eliminate the causes of fire d. prevent loss of life


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FPP Responsibilities

Fire safety is everyone's responsibility. All employees should know how to prevent and respond

to fires, and are responsible for adhering to company policy regarding fire emergencies.

Management

Management determines fire prevention and protection policies. They should do the following:

• Managers should provide adequate hazard controls to provide a safe workplace.

• Managers should also provide adequate resources and training to employees to

encourage fire prevention and the safest possible response in the event of a fire

emergency.

Plan Administrator

This person maintains all records pertaining to the plan. The Plan Administrator should also:

• Develop and administer the fire prevention training program.

• Ensure that fire control equipment and systems are appropriate and properly

maintained.

• Control fuel source hazards in the workplace.

• Conduct fire risk surveys and make recommendations for improvement.

Supervisors

Supervisors ensure that employees receive appropriate fire safety training.

• Supervisors should notify the plan administrator when changes in operation increase

the risk of fire.

• They are also responsible for enforcing fire prevention and protection policies.

Employees

All employees should complete all required training before working without supervision. It's

important that employees also:

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• Conduct operations safely to limit the risk of fire.

• Report potential fire hazards to their supervisors.

• Follow fire emergency procedures.

2. Who is responsible for ensuring employees receive proper training in the Fire

Prevention Plan (FPP)?

a. Plan administrators b. Supervisors c. Safety committees d. Safety staff

Written Plan Components

A fire prevention plan must be in writing, be kept in the workplace, and be made available to

employees for review. However, according to OSHA, if you have 10 or fewer employees you

may communicate the plan orally to employees.

At a minimum, your fire prevention plan must include:

• A list of all major fire hazards, proper handling and storage procedures for hazardous

materials, potential ignition sources and their control, and the type of fire protection

equipment necessary to control each major hazard;

• Procedures to control accumulations of flammable and combustible waste materials;

• Procedures for regular maintenance of safeguards installed on heat-producing

equipment to prevent the accidental ignition of combustible materials;

• The name or job title of employees responsible for maintaining equipment to prevent or

control sources of ignition or fires; and

• The name or job title of employees responsible for the control of fuel source hazards.

An employer must inform employees upon initial assignment to a job of the fire hazards to

which they are exposed. An employer must also review with each employee those parts of the

fire prevention plan necessary for self-protection.

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3. At a minimum the Fire Prevention Plan (FPP) must contain _____.

a. potential sources of overexposure b. procedures to control all substances c. a list of all major fire hazards d. corrective maintenance procedures

FPP Best Practices

To limit the risk of fires, good housekeeping is critical. All employees should take the following

precautions:

• Minimize the storage of combustible materials.

• Make sure that doors, hallways, stairs, and other exit routes are kept free of

obstructions.

• Dispose of combustible waste in covered, airtight, metal containers.

• Use and store flammable materials in well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources.

• Use only nonflammable cleaning products.

• Keep incompatible (i.e., chemically reactive) substances away from each other.

• Perform "hot work" (i.e., welding or working with an open flame or other ignition

sources) in controlled and well-ventilated areas.

• Keep equipment in good working order (i.e., inspect electrical wiring and appliances

regularly and keep motors and machine tools free of dust and grease.

• Ensure that heating units are safeguarded.

• Report all gas leaks immediately. A responsible person shall ensure that all gas leaks are

repaired immediately upon notification.

• Repair and clean up flammable liquid leaks immediately.

• Keep work areas free of dust, lint, sawdust, scraps, and similar material.

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• Do not rely on extension cords if wiring improvements are needed, and take care not to

overload circuits with multiple pieces of equipment.

• Ensure that required hot work permits are obtained.

• Turn off electrical equipment when not in use.

4. Which of the following is an important best practice within the Fire Prevention Plan

(FPP)?

a. Keep exit routes free of obstructions b. Ensure hot work is performed only on live pipelines c. Keep combustible waste in open, non-flammable, synthetic barrels d. Ensure flammable liquids are cleaned up as soon as practical

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 Fires 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.

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.

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• 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.

5. Under the Fire Prevention Plan (FPP), portable heaters should _____.

a. be approved by the user b. rely on proper manual shut-off switches c. have Z359-approved components d. have tip-over protection

Fire Extinguishing Systems

A fire extinguishing system is an engineered set of components that work together to quickly

detect a fire, alert occupants, and extinguish the fire before extensive damage can occur. All

system components must be:

• Designed and approved for use on the specific fire hazards they are expected to control

or extinguish.

• Protected against corrosion or either made or coated with a non-corrosive material if it

may be exposed to a corrosive environment.

• Designed for the climate and temperature extremes to which they will be exposed.

Fixed Extinguishing Systems

Fixed fire extinguishing/suppression systems are commonly used to protect areas containing

valuable or critical equipment such as data processing rooms, telecommunication switches, and

process control rooms. Their main function is to quickly extinguish a developing fire and alert

occupants before extensive damage occurs by filling the protected area with a gas or chemical

extinguishing agent.

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Portable Extinguishing Systems

Workplace fires and explosions kill hundreds and injure thousands of workers each year. One

way to limit the amount of damage due to such fires is to make portable fire extinguishers an

important part of your FPP. When used properly, fire extinguishers can save lives and property

by putting out a small fire or controlling a fire until additional help arrives.

For more information on fire extinguishing systems and using portable fire extinguishers, see

OSHAcademy course 718 Fire Prevention Plans.

6. Which type of fire extinguishing system is commonly used to protect areas containing

valuable or critical equipment?

a. Portable extinguishing system b. Fixed extinguishing system c. OSHA-approved extinguishing system d. Regulated extinguishing system

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Even though extinguishers come in a number of shapes and sizes, they all operate in a similar

manner. Here's an easy acronym for fire extinguisher use:

P A S S -- Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep

Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher that keeps the handle from being accidentally

pressed.

Aim the nozzle toward the base of the fire.

Squeeze the handle to discharge the extinguisher. Position yourself approximately 8 feet away

from the fire. If you release the handle, the discharge will stop.

Sweep the nozzle back and forth at the base of the fire. After the fire appears to be out, watch

it carefully since it may re-ignite!

Make sure all employees who are expected to use fire extinguishers if a controllable fire occurs

are properly trained with hands-on practice. There's no OSHA requirement to actually

extinguish a fire or discharge a fire extinguisher during training. However, each employee

should handle the fire extinguisher and demonstrate they can perform the PASS steps.


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7. When using a fire extinguisher, be sure use the _____ method.

a. On, Sweep, Hold, Aim b. Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep c. Behind, Load, Aim, Sweep, Train d. Hold, Operate, Squeeze, Empty

FPP Training Requirements

Employers should train workers about fire hazards in the workplace and about what to do in a

fire emergency.

Management Training Responsibilities: Unless a specific manager is designated, all managers

should be responsible for coordinating with the Plan Administrator for training all employees

covered under the FPP.

• All managers should be educated to understand their FPP responsibilities including

inspection and drill procedures.

• Managers should also make sure all employees who might be expected to use portable

fire extinguishers are properly trained.

• Supervisors should train employees about the fire hazards associated with the specific

materials and processes to which they are exposed, and maintain written

documentation of the training.

Many of the topics taught in the FPP training may be presented in the classroom. If employees

are expected to use portable fire extinguishers, they must participate in "hands-on" exercises

that help them understand the procedures. Hands-on training also gives employees an

opportunity to demonstrate to trainers that they have the skills required to use fire

extinguishers.

At a minimum, FPP Training should include all of the following topics:

• review OSHA requirements contained in 29 CFR 1910.38, Emergency Action Plans,

• review OSHA requirements contained in 29 CFR 1910.39, Fire Prevention Plans,

• person(s) responsible for Control of Fuel Source Hazards,

• the location of the company FPP and how it can be accessed,

https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_id=9726&p_table=STANDARDS


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• good fire-prevention housekeeping practices and equipment maintenance,

• alarm systems and evacuation routes,

• proper response and notification in the event of a fire,

• the use of portable fire extinguishers, and

• recognition of potential fire hazards.

8. In the Fire Prevention Plan (FPP), when must employees be given hands-on training?

a. When given responsibility to inspect equipment b. When given supervisory responsibilities c. When acting as fire wardens d. When responsible for operating fire extinguishers

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Additional Resources

1. How to Plan for Workplace Emergencies and Evacuations, OSHA

2. Emergency Response Resources

3. NFPA 1600, Standard on Disaster/Emergency Management and Business Continuity

Programs

4. Evacuation Plans and Procedures eTool

5. Evacuation Plans and Procedures eTool

6. Expect the Unexpected, OR-OSHA

7. Emergency Management Guide for Business & Industry

8. Napo's Films, Via Storia


https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/emres/business.html

https://www.oshatrain.org/courses/pdf/NFPA16002010.pdf

https://www.oshatrain.org/courses/pdf/NFPA16002010.pdf

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/evacuation/eap.html

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/evacuation/eap.html

https://http/osha.oregon.gov/OSHAPubs/3356.pdf

https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1511-20490-6446/bizindst.pdf

https://www.napofilm.net/en/napos-films

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