OSHA requires all employers to provide portable fire extinguishers for general use. Employers are further required to display fire extinguishers in an accessible place that employees can access without injuring themselves. One of the most common problems our technicians observe during the inspection process is that extinguishers are not properly placed or that access to the extinguisher is blocked. OSHA has these requirements for your protection. If they are not followed, you are at risk.
OSHA also requires employers to be held responsible for the maintenance and testing of fire extinguishers. These regulations describe annual testing schedules and procedures. However, more often than you would think, employers are not complying with these regulations. In fact, I attended a wedding this past weekend at a prestigious local country club where the extinguishers have not been inspected or serviced in several years. If you happen to be in a building under these circumstances, you are at risk.
Employers are required to chose fire extinguishers based on the class and scope of fires anticipated in the area. Another common problem our technicians run into on a daily basis is that the wrong class of fire extinguisher has been selected to cover a particular hazard area. Water extinguishers should not be used to cover greased based fire hazards or electronically charged hazards. Using the incorrect class of fire extinguisher on a particular hazard will only result in injury.
Federal regulations for fire extinguishers require employers to educate employees in the proper use of fire extinguishers, and the hazards related to their use. OSHA requires employers to provide training in the use of fire extinguishers to employees at the beginning of employment, and annually thereafter.
How safe is the building you work in or reside? Please check that your employer or landlord is in compliance with regulations. The life you save could be yours.