PURPOSE

To provide guidance to Lock Haven University employees in the safe use of portable fire extinguishers.

 

SCOPE

Encompass resident life staff RA/RD, facilities personnel, theater/fine arts personnel, laboratory staff, and law enforcement officers.

 

PROCEDURE

Prior to becoming an authorized fire extinguisher user, the employee shall receive training that will be provided by a “qualified” individual that will cover the following minimum areas:

 

  • Classification of fires
  • Stages of fires
  • Classifications of portable fire extinguishers
  • Hazards associated with portable fire extinguisher use
  • Portable fire extinguisher operation using the “PASS” model –

 

HOW TO USE A PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER

Remember the acronym, "P.A.S.S."--

P

......Pull the Pin.

Proper Use of an Extingusher

A

......Aim extinguisher nozzle
at the base of the flames.

S

......Squeeze trigger while
holding the extinguisher upright.

S

......Sweep the extinguisher from
side to side, covering the
area of the fire with
the extinguishing agent.

 

Training:

1.       Portable fire extinguisher training should be presented to all employees listed above as part of their initial training, as well as part of their annual safety training.

 

2.       Fire extinguisher operation training should include actual activation of a carbon dioxide (Class BC) fire extinguisher or a sample representative of the types of extinguishers that they will be expected to use.

3.       Fire extinguisher training should consist of both classroom and hands on instruction.  Hands on (discharging an actual extinguisher) instruction is to be presented outdoors under controlled conditions.

 

4.       Methods of hands on training include using a target that employees attempt to hit with the extinguishing agent and/or using an inflatable ball that employees attempt to move with the extinguishing agent.

 

5.       Training employees to use a portable fire extinguisher with an actual fire (in a small metal container) is only recommended under the direct control and supervision of a professional fire fighter using bunker gear and all approved and required equipment.

 

Employees who are not trained and authorized to use portable fire extinguishers will not use the extinguishers, but will evacuate the building and assist those who need help.