Does it matter what type and size fire extinguisher my Fire Watch is equipped with?
In a previous article I posted the Fire Watch requirements found in OSHA, NFPA, and some state Fire Codes; however, the one critical path that is high on our list of findings during audits is the method of extinguishing the fire watch is provided. We have, on many occasions, found fire extinguishers that had not been inspected in months, some were years past due for their annual maintenance/inspection, some were just dead and even once or twice we found the extinguisher to actually be EMPTY. These are easy findings that do not get any push back; however, when we mention the size or type extinguisher may not be suitable for the size of HW job there is usually much debate. We have seen "kitchen extinguishers", which are nothing more than a pressurized can, being used on jobs with multiple HW tasks taking place. The bottom line, the extinguisher needs to be rated for the level of risks associated with its intended use. I have always suggested nothing less than a 10 pound ABC Dry Chemical extinguisher and a "20 pounder" is even better, but in some cases, such as the OH Fire Code and the International Fire Code, there are some SPECIFIC requirements... (but you will see why I always suggest at least a 10 lb, with hopes they will use a 20 lb'er, ABC to my PSM/RMP clients) |
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