Using a Fire Extinguisher in a Commercial Building

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

The most common emergency a business must plan for is a fire, according to OSHA. It is important for all your staff to know how to properly use a fire extinguisher. Although a small fire may be able to be contained with an extinguisher, they can also be used to help protect evacuation routes.

OSHA requires that employees be trained how to use these tools and how to determine when evacuation is the best choice. You can implement a simple training method called PASS with your employees on how to properly operate a fire extinguisher.

PASS stands for: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep

While handling the fire extinguisher, you start by removing the pin. Next, you want to aim the spray nozzle at the base of the fire and then squeeze the trigger on the handle. While squeezing the trigger, start to move the extinguisher in a sweeping motion at the base of the fire.

Some things you need to consider: A small extinguisher’s use is limited. It is a great tool to reduce fire damage and potentially save lives by preventing fires from getting out of control, but fire extinguishers are only effective on small fires. It is important for employees to know when to evacuate. When a fire becomes too large, it is time to evacuate. If the room or office fills with smoke, don’t risk it, evacuate. You need to be able to get within ten to fifteen feet of a fire for a fire extinguisher to be effective. If the heat is too much and prevents you from getting close enough, the safest thing for you to do is follow the office evacuation plan.

Office fires may be more common than you think. It is important that you and your employees know how to safely act in various situations that involve fires. If you experience a fire in your home or business, call us as soon as possible at 804-740-6151. We are available 24/7 to help when needed.