that safety is incorporated into all aspect of chemical related
activities.
In addition to the above, regular fire drills
should be conducted to train and familiarize personnel on
actions to be taken should a fire hazard occur.
3.
Fire Prevention and Control
The danger from fire is the single most dangerous hazard that
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€
laboratory personnel must face in their daily activities.
Laboratory personnel must be aware of potential ignition sources
and take necessary precautions to avoid uncontrolled combustion.
Fire prevention in the laboratory requires the correct handling
of combustible materials and supplies to control formation of
flammable vapors. The following are some common but very useful
methods that can be used to prevent and control fire in the
laboratory.
a.
Periodically
inspect
the
facility
for
adequate
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ventilation.
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b.
Never leave an open flame or heating element unattended
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while it is in use.
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c. Keep flammable products away from sources of heat, such as
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electrical switches, open flames, electric motors, and even
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direct sunlight.
d. Move flammable debris away from hazardous areas as soon as
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possible.
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e.
Set hot liquids aside to cool before discarding.
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f.
Keep oily rags in metal, airtight, closed containers.
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g.
Isolate highly reactive chemicals (oxidizers
must
be
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isolated from flammable and corrosive materials).
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h.
Never discard organic products, hot or cold in sinks or
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drains.
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i.
Ventilate laboratory and
storerooms
to
prevent
an
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accumulation of flammable vapors.
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j.
Check electrical wiring and equipment for loose, frayed,
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and defective connections or insulation; do not overload
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electrical circuits.
4-3
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