Fire Prevention Plan

As the name suggests, a fire prevention plan is something workplaces institute to prevent fires through identification and mitigation of hazards. Preventing fires will prevent the loss of life, injuries, and other costs associated with property damage. OSHA requires fire prevention plans under the standards for ethylene oxide (1910.1047), methylenedianiline (1910.1050), and 1,3 Butadiene (1910.1051).

What should be included in a fire prevention plan?

A basic fire prevention plan will identify fuel sources, what may contribute to the spread of a fire, and what building systems are in place (such as an alarm system or a fixed fire extinguishing system). When OSHA requires a written fire prevention program, it should include the following elements:

• Title of employees responsible for maintaining equipment to prevent or control sources of ignition or fires
• The name or job title of employees responsible for the control of fuel source hazards
• A list of all major fire hazards along with handling + storage procedures, potential ignition sources, and what type of fire protection equipment should be used
• Procedures to control accumulations flammable and combustible waste materials
• Proper handling and storage procedures for hazardous, flammable, and combustible waste
• Fire protection equipment necessary for employees
• Procedures for regular maintenance of safeguards installed on heat-producing equipment

The written fire prevention plan should be stored in the workplace where it can be reviewed by employees at any time.

It will be important to do a hazard analysis of the facility before writing the fire prevention plan. During this analysis, the employer or safety manager should identify potential fire hazards, flammable or combustible materials, heat-producing machines, and sources of ignition. This information can then be used to determine proper procedures for hazardous materials, equipment necessary to control risk, and how else to control each major hazard identified.