When working on campus, whether it’s inside a building or out on the grounds, always be aware ofthe potential hazards that may exist at your job location. Fire safety is one of our major concerns. Although EHS does a great job with the Fire Prevention & Protection Programs, it is the responsibility of every employee to know how to prevent fires, and what response is expected should a fire occur. Please see the FREAS SharePoint page under Safety for more information on this topic and a list of all previous Weekly Safety Messages issued this year.
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Workers need to recognize potential fire hazards and take every safety precaution to avoid potentially deadly situations on their job sites.
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in recent years, more than 200 workers die annually as a result of fires and explosions.
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OSHA Standard 1910.106(b)(6) “Sources of ignition.” In locations where flammable vapors may be present, precautions shall be taken to prevent ignition by eliminating or controlling sources of ignition. Sources of ignition may include open flames, cutting and welding, and sparks.
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The UD Fire Prevention/Fire Protection Program was created to protect students, employees and visitors from the perils of fires, explosions and other types of emergencies.
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Unless you have been directed otherwise by specific instruction, you should perform the following if you discover a fire within a campus building:
- Leave the area if unsafe
- Pull the building fire alarm
- Once in a safe area, call 911
- Assist others to evacuate
- Use a portable extinguisher if you have been trained
- See UD Policy 7-06, Emergency Response, for more information
- Be alert to your work activities and avoid creating fire hazards.
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Obtain a Hot Work Permit for any work involving an open flame, welding, brazing, grinding, torch cutting, or any activities that may create sparks.
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The improper or unauthorized storage of materials/equipment on campus can create a fire hazard. Contact EHS to verify your storage plan does not create a violation.
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OSHA Standard 1910.157(d)(1) Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided for employee use and selected and distributed based on the classes of anticipated workplace fires and on the size and degree of hazard which would affect their use.
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Check to see if a JHA-Job Hazards Analysis has been issued for your work activity, and if it provides specific guidance for fire protection.
- Know where fire extinguishers are located at your work site.
- Report any missing, damaged, or spent fire extinguishers immediately.
- Be familiar with the part of a fire extinguishers and how to tell if it has been discharged.
- Never attempt to use a fire extinguisher unless you have been trained to do so.
- Always use the correct containers for using, storing, or transporting fuel.
- Report all fires or possible fires (visible smoke) immediately by call 911.
- Please remember that smoking in all University of Delaware facilities is prohibited.
- See the EHS webpage for more information on fire safety.