Fire Hazard Recognition Flashcards
What are some examples of unsafe behaviors? (308)
Inadequate Housekeeping
Unintentional Ignition Sources
Open Burning
Improper use of electrical equipment
Improve use and storage of flammable and combustible liquids
Name some of the unsafe behaviors inspectors may encounter when dealing with flammable and combustible liquids (313-314)
- Improperly dispensing, mixing, or transferring flammable and combustible liquids
- Using flammable liquids for cleaning
- Storing flammable or combustible liquids in unapproved containers or locations
- Using a flammable liquid such as gasoline to ignite a solid fuel, such as charcoal briquettes
Name some of the actions that must be taken to control hazards when handling compressed/liquefied gas cylinders. (317-318)
- Use only cylinders approved for interstate transportation of compressed/liquefied gases (those marked with appropriate DOT approval codes)
- Verify that numbers or marks stamped on cylinders remain in place and unchanged with the exception of those made by hydrostatic testing organizations.
- Roll cylinders on their bottom edges, don’t drag
- Protect cylinders from cuts or other physical damage
- Use manufacturer-approved lifting devices and methods for moving cylinders (electromagnet may not be used)
- Ensure employees do not drop cylinders or let them strike each other
- Verify that employees do not tamper with safety devices on the valves of cylinders
- Contact supplier or mfr when in doubt about proper handling of compressed gas cylinder or its contents
- Mark empty cylinders with work “EMPTY” or “MT” (phonetic of Empty), and secure their valve caps in place
What are some of the signs that could indicate electrical hazards are present? (320)
- Worn Electrical Equipment
- Improper Use of Electrical Equipment
- Defective or Improper Electrical Installations
What kinds of information should an inspector be prepared to verify when onsite at a storage facility or retail outlet? (322-323, 325-326)
- Changes in contents that may increase the fuel load
- Changes in storage arrangement or height that may require changes in storage systems, in-rack sprinkler arrangements, and access aisle width.
- Recognize appropriate distances between materials
- Note housekeeping issues
- Be aware of fire protection measures specified for materials
Inspectors should review storage documentation before conducting an inspection at a storage facility or retail outlet. Onsite they should verify:
- Building construction characteristics
- Location of fire walls, fire door assemblies, and fire barriers
- Types and classifications of stored commodities, including plastics
- Type of packing material used
- Methods of storage
- Maximum storage height of commodities
- Type and design of automatic sprinkler system and the fire pump if provided
- Type of water system on site; should meet minimum flow and pressure for the system
- Location of water sources, hydrants, standpipes, and fire department connections
- Locations and types of smoke and fire detectors
- Method of smoke removal
- Training records for facility personnel
- Disposal method/storage of waste and packing materials
- Introduction of high-risk commodities
- Maintain required clearances between sprinklers and stored materials
- Maintain clear specified aisle dimensions
- Fire detection and reporting systems
- Security systems
- Structural and electrical systems
- Storage methods and practices
- Locator and lot identification systems
- Documents to include household goods descriptive inventories, weight tickets, warehouse receipts, service orders
What are the some of the issues with Pallet Storage? (323-324)
With multiple stacked pallets it is more difficult for water from a sprinkler to reach, wet, and control a fire.
- Materials are stacked 3 to 4 feet high on each pallet, with several pallets stacked this may approach 30 feet in height
- Air space between top and bottom layers of pallets (~4”) created significant fire hazard b/c provides path for promoting spread of fire
- Materials are often completely encapsulated in plastic wrap (cocooning)
- Plastic encapsulation prevents fire suppression system water from penetrating surface of stored material
- Packing/wrapping adds to the fuel load
- Pallets stacked several layers high prevent sprinkler water from reaching bottom layers
- Plastic pallets change the commodity class if sprinkler system not designed for Group A plastics
What does Rack Storage represent the most challenging fire protection problem in comparison to Pallet Storage and Solid Piling storage methods? (324)
It exposes more surface area to a fire and provides pathways for the spread of fire, such as flue spaces.
Which storage method provides a fire with the least chance to develop and why? (324-325)
Solid piling. Materials are stacked directly on top of each other which limits the air space between the fuel units.
What are examples of commodities that are considered high-piled combustible storage when stored at a specific height above the finished floor? (325)
Vehicle Tires
Plastics
Flammable Liquids
Unused Pallets
What are some of the code provisions for open-yard lumber storage? (329-330)
- Lumber stacks must be on solid ground, preferably paved or surfaced with material such as cinders, fine gravel, stone
- Heights of stacks may not exceed 20 feet, so they remain stable and limit material available in event of fire
- Gates and driveways must be wide enough to accommodate fire department’s largest vehicle
- Turning radium of all driveways must accommodate largest fire apparatus
- Fire department-approved padlocks or key boxes provided
What are the two main hazards associated with recycling plants? (331)
- Bulk storage of combustible materials
- Hazardous processes conducted on the the premises
Identify fire and life safety hazards presented by heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. (335)
- The spread of fire and products of combustion through the air handling system
- Fire hazards from heating appliances
List some of the hazards associated with boilers. (339)
- Gases can build in system and ignite when a mechanical failure occurs
- Natural Gas fired: Leaking gas and buildup of fuel-rich mixtures if a burner fails
- Coal fired: Hazards when debris is mixed with coal
- Oil-fired: from the fuels, oil leaks, or interruptions in oil flow caused by water or sludge in the fuel
- Coal dust accumulating in areas adjacent to unit’s fire box, developing an explosive atmosphere if dust becomes airborne
- Failure of the vessel can be catastrophic due to elevated operating pressures
- Deterioration or modification of unit exhaust may cause a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide in the structure
What is a Type I hood used for? What is a Type II hood used for? (345)
Type I hoods are placed over grease-producing equipment.
Type II hoods are placed over equipment such as dishwashers and ovens.
List some of the conditions inspectors must look for when inspecting cooking equipment like ventilation hoods. (345)
- Cleanliness and functionality
- No grease accumulation
- Proper provisions for grease removal, to include regularly scheduled cleaning
- Clearance of at least 18 inches from any combustible material unless the equipment is specially designed for a lesser clearance
- Fire extinguishers should be accessible, personnel should be trained in their proper use. Extinguishers should be compatible with the suppression system.
Name some of the special considerations inspectors need to be aware of when it comes to industrial furnaces and ovens. (348-349)
NFPA 86 Standard for Ovens and Furnaces
- Failing to maintain required clearances can create fire and explosion hazards
- Ventilation systems, including makeup air and exhaust systems
- Heat, gas, and smoke removal systems
- Temperatures required for operation
- Material handling equipment
- Sprinklers or water spray systems for ovens that contain/process sufficient combustion materials to sustain a fire
- Maintenance, clearances should be maintained
- Automated controls and alarms should be approved for their application
- Check the schedule and extent of inspection, testing, and maintenance programs
- System should interlock in event of malfunction, equipment will deactivate and remove remaining fuel from system
What conditions should an inspector be alert to when inspecting facilities that use industrial trucks? (350)
NFPA 505
- Chargers for electric battery operated units should be at least 5 feet from combustible materials. Charging areas should not be accessible to public and should be vented to prevent accumulation of hydrogen gas.
- Liquid- or gas-fueled vehicles should only be fueled outside buildings. Fuel storage in compliance with local fire code.
- Workers to perform repairs in designated areas
- An Industrial Truck should only be used in the atmosphere for which it is specified. Hazardous atmospheres need special equipment and need posted signs that a certain type of truck is safe for that area.
- Industrial trucks should be marked with signs indicating the class of truck and operational restrictions if used in a hazardous electrical location.
- Industrial trucks must be maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
Name some of the provisions required for tents. (350-352)
NFPA 102 Standard for Grandstands, Folding and Telescoping Seating, Tents, and Membrane Structures
NFPA 701 Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films
- Flame resistant material
- materials inside/on tent must be treated or made of flame-retardant material
- Specified distance from property lines, vehicles, other tents
- Means of egress requirements per local building and fire codes
- Storage and handling of flammable or combustible liquids per fire code
- Electrical installments per local code (including extension cord)
- Pyrotechnics and open flames prohibited
- Access for emergency vehicles
- No combustible vegetation inside or up to 10 feet around tent.
- Fire-retardant treat hay, straw, shavings, or sawdust (or kept wet). Or limit amounts for daily care/feeding of animals.
What are some of the operations that can create hazardous atmospheres? (352)
- Welding, dipping, and quenching operations, and application of flammable finishes
- Dry cleaning operations
- Dust hazards
- Semiconductors/electronics manufacturing
- Distilleries
- Cutting, grinding, painting
- Presence of asphalt and tar kettles
Name the hot work fire safety issues inspectors should primarily be concerned with. (353)
- Equipment is well maintained
- Equipment is in working order
- Equipment is stored properly
- Combustible materials are kept well away from the areas containing hot work operations
- Oxygen and fuel gases in cylinders (oxy-fuel gas equipment) are stored properly
- Gas regulators are maintained at their proper settings
Name some of the controls model fire codes require for flammable finishing processes. (357)
- The use of mechanical ventilation to maintain the atmosphere below specified flammable liquids
- The installation of noncombustible equipment or noncombustible enclosures to limit the spread of fire beyond the flammable finishing area.
- The specification of hazardous (classified) electrical location boundaries in and around the spray finishing process to confirm the selected electrical equipment does not constitute an ignition source.
- An automatic fire extinguishing system in and around the flammable finishing process.
- Administrative controls limiting the amount of fuel in the flammable finishing area, and control of ignition sources including the prohibition of hot work
- Interlocks to stop the flammable finishing process if mechanical ventilation is lost or the automatic fire extinguishing system activates.
What are the three types of flammable finishing operations for which model fire codes specify requirements? (356)
Spray finishing (NFPA 33)
Powder coating
Immersion coating
How can hazards around quenching processes be reduced? (360-361)
Elimination of
- Open flames
- Spark-producing equipment or processes
- Equipment whose exposed surfaces exceed the autoignition temperature of the quenching medium.
- Tanks should be at grade level and not in basements
- Tanks should be designed with enough freeboard to keep tank from overflowing (6” min)
- Tanks should have overflow drains
- Tanks should be built within dikes with drains
- Drain boards and automatic-closing covers can prevent overflow due to automatic sprinkler system discharges
- Fire extinguishers of several types must be available
What are some of the items an inspector must verify when inspecting dry cleaning operations? (362)
NFPA 32
- Quantity of Class I solvents limited and properly stored
- Dry cleaning plant type and solvent used match
- Routine maintenance is performed to prevent accumulation of fluff, lint, or waste that could ignite or cause fire to spread rapidly
- All containers with flammable or combustible petroleum-based solvents are properly stored, transported, and used
- No Smoking policy in place, enforced, and signs posted
- Correct size and number of portable fire extinguishers are available and personnel is trained in their use
- Fire protection equipment, including detection and alarm equipment and automatic sprinklers, are operational.
What are the five conditions that must be present for a dust explosion to occur? (363, 365)
- Combustible dust must be suspended in the air.
- The particle concentration must be within its explosive range.
- An ignition source must be present.
- The dust must be in a confined space.
- Oxygen content must be capable of supporting combustion.
Explosion Pentagon: Fuel, Confinement, Dispersion, Heat, Oxygen
What occurs when there is a dust explosion? (363)
Dust explosions occur in series. The first usually is not as severe as subsequent explosions. The first explosion stirs dust that has settled on ledges, walls, equipment, or in areas of low travel. The second introduction of particles to the air generally results in larger and strong explosions.
What are some of the NFPA standards associated with dust control and explosions? (365-368)
NFPA 61 Standard for the Prevention of Fires and Dust Explosions in Agricultural and Food Processing Facilities
NFPA 68 Standard on Explosion Protection by Deflagration Venting
NFPA 69 Standard on Explosion Prevention Systems
NFPA 70 National Electrical Code
NPFA 499 Recommended Practice for the Classification of Combustible Dusts and of Hazardous (Classified) Locations for Electrical Installations in Chemical Process Areas
NFPA 654 Standard for the Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the Manufacturing, Processing, and Handling of Combustible Particulate Solids.
What are some of the conditions an inspector should be aware of in a distillery? (373)
Primary hazards are fire and explosion.
Fires can occur when vapors from flammable organic compounds are released from leaks in tanks, casks, and equipment.
Dust from processing grain and combustion from wood floors, casks, and racks can cause fires or explosions.
A vapor explosion can occur if enough vapors are released in an enclosed space with an ignition source present:
- Open flames
- Torch cutting and welding
- Sparks (static, electrical, mechanical)
- Hot surfaces
- Heat from friction
- Radiant heat
- Combustible dust
All flammable materials necessary for an explosion (vapor, dust, gas) are present.
What should the inspector check for at a Distillery? (373-374)
The best way to prevent a distillery fire is to control flammable vapors and ignition sources.
- Note venting processes so that flammable vapors inside the building do not accumulate
- Make sure electrical system in rooms where distilling or blending flammable liquids is done conforms to the NEC Class I Division 1 Hazardous Location for Group D Flammable Liquids
- Check for proper ground and bonding technique when pouring ethanol from storage container to the still container and when decanting large amounts of finished product or byproduct
- Note that heaters and natural gas appliances that use pilot lights are at least 10 feet away from the pouring and distilling areas
- Verify that fire sprinkler systems meet the fire jurisdiction’s requirements for extinguishing an ethanol distillery fire.
- What is one of the most important ways in which an inspector can make a difference when it comes to unsafe behaviors? (308)
A. Allowing building managers to deal with them
B. Repeatedly issuing citations to property owners
C. Helping occupants/owners change unsafe behaviors
D. Report unsafe behaviors to the appropriate authorities
C
Oily rags in an open waste container is an example of which type of unsafe behavior? (308)
A. Inadequate housekeeping
B. Unintentional ignition sources
C. Improper storage of flammable liquids
D. Improper storage of combustible liquids
A
Leaving food unattended on a stove is an example of which of the following unsafe behaviors? (309)
A. Open burning
B. Inadequate housekeeping
C. Unintentional ignition sources
D. Improper use of electrical equipment
C
What is required by most model fire codes for individuals before open burning can take place? (310)
A. Permits
B. Contracts
C. Participant list
D. Appropriate weather
A
In addition to creating a potential ignition source, the improper use of electrical equipment also increases the: (312)
A. danger of electrocution or shock.
B. cost of electricity for the occupant.
C. likelihood of false smoke or fire alarms.
D. insurance costs for the property owner.
A
Using gasoline to ignite a solid fuel, such as charcoal, is an example of which unsafe behavior? (313)
A. Open burning
B. Inadequate housekeeping
C. Unintentional ignition sources
D. Improper use and storage of flammable and combustible liquids
D
As an inspector, the proper application of ____ will reduce unsafe conditions. (319)
A. SOPs
B. model codes
C. industry standards
D. locally adopted codes
D
Detailed electrical inspections are typically the responsibility of qualified: (320)
A. fire inspectors.
B. electrical engineers.
C. electrical inspectors.
D. electrical contractors.
C
Which of the following statements about arcing is MOST accurate? (320)
A. It cannot ignite combustible materials.
B. It does not produce high temperatures.
C. It commonly occurs in new electrical equipment.
D. It is the movement of current between two electrodes or conductors.
D
Who is usually responsible for the design, installation, and maintenance of fire protection systems in retail outlets? (323)
A. Architects
B. Occupants
C. Contractors
D. Store owners
D
Which common storage method uses structural framework onto which pallets or other materials are placed? (324)
A. Solid piling
B. Loose piling
C. Rack storage
D. Pallet storage
C
Which common storage method gives a fire the least chance to develop? (325)
A. Solid piling
B. Loose piling
C. Rack storage
D. Pallet storage
A
Inspectors should review ____ before conducting an inspection at a storage facility or retail outlet. (325)
A. building plans
B. architect blueprints
C. storage documentation
D. manufacturer’s recommendations
C
It is critical that inspectors diligently inspect a warehouse’s: (327)
A. smoke detectors.
B. architect blueprints.
C. ownership documentation.
D. automatic sprinkler system.
D
What is the primary hazard associated with lumberyards? (328)
A. Rack storage
B. High fuel load
C. Size of the lumberyard
D. Unpredictable staff presence
B
The majority of pallets are constructed of: (330)
A. paper.
B. metal.
C. plastic.
D. wood.
D
What are the two main hazards associated with recycling plants? (331)
A. High fuel loads and improper storage
B. Bulk storage and hazardous processes
C. Bulk storage and limited staff presence
D. Hazardous processes and high fuel loads
B
Which facilities present unique challenges due to the quantity of materials, the presence of treated and untreated materials, and the processes used on those materials? (332)
A. Lumberyards
B. Warehouses
C. Recycling facilities
D. Waste-handling facilities
D
Which waste disposal option can reduce the bulk of waste as much as 95 percent? (333)
A. Burial
B. Landfill
C. Compaction
D. Incineration
D
What can an inspector do about an observed unsafe behavior? (308)
A. Nothing
B. Evict occupants
C. Educate occupants
D. Report the behavior
C
Who can provide information to occupants about unsafe behaviors during facility surveys and preincident inspections? (308)
A. Property owner
B. Law enforcement
C. System manufacturers
D. Fire company personnel
D
Obstructions that prevent a safe and orderly exit are an example of which type of unsafe behavior? (308)
A. Inadequate housekeeping
B. Unintentional ignition sources
C. Improper storage of flammable liquids
D. Improper storage of combustible liquids
A
An open flame is an example of which of the following unsafe behaviors? (308)
A. Open burning
B. Inadequate housekeeping
C. Unintentional ignition sources
D. Improper use of electrical equipment
C
Which of the following is an unsafe behavior related to unintentional ignition sources? (309)
A. Obstructed exits
B. Using candles improperly
C. Not clearing overgrown brush
D. Accumulations of trash or litter
B
Which of the following activities is considered open burning under most model fire codes? (310)
A. Daisy chains
B. Burning candles outdoors
C. Tiki torches around a swimming pool
D. Burning combustible waste in metal drums
D
Who should inspectors notify if they encounter an unsafe situation created by the improper use of electrical equipment? (312)
A. Fire chief
B. Legal counsel
C. Building inspector
D. Electrical inspector
D
Equipment used in areas where explosive concentrations of ____ may exist must be equipped with special wiring and other electrical equipment for safety purposes. (312)
A. daisy chains
B. dust and vapors
C. grounded circuits
D. unprotected temporary lights
B
According to NFPA® National Electric Code, Class I locations contain: (313)
A. ignitable fibers.
B. grounded circuits.
C. combustible dust.
D. flammable vapors and gases.
D
According to NFPA® National Electric Code, Class II locations contain: (313)
A. ignitable fibers.
B. grounded circuits.
C. combustible dust.
D. flammable vapors and gases.
C
According to NFPA® National Electric Code, Class III locations contain: (313)
A. ignitable fibers.
B. grounded circuits.
C. combustible dust.
D. flammable vapors and gases.
A
Using flammable liquids for cleaning is an example of which unsafe behavior? (313)
A. Open burning
B. Inadequate housekeeping
C. Unintentional ignition sources
D. Improper use of flammable and combustible liquids
D
Which of the following is an example of improper use and storage of flammable and combustible liquids? (313)
A. Gasoline used in a lawnmower
B. Gasoline used in an automobile
C. Gasoline transported in a gas can
D. Gasoline stored in glass jars in a garage
D
Dispensing equipment for handling flammable or combustible liquids must be kept in: (316)
A. separate buildings.
B. regular storage rooms.
C. specially designed rooms.
D. underground bunkers outside the structure.
C
Which of the following is a common cause of electrical hazard fires? (320)
A. Circuit breakers
B. Old grounded circuits
C. Using extension cords
D. Worn electrical equipment
D
Which of the following statements about arcing is MOST accurate? (320)
A. It produces high temperatures.
B. It cannot ignite combustible materials.
C. It commonly occurs in new electrical equipment.
D. It is the stoppage of current at an electrode or conductor.
A
Common electrical hazards occur when electrical equipment is: (320)
A. overused.
B. used improperly.
C. greater than five years old.
D. in its first six months of usage.
B
Which of the following is MOST likely to lead to the issue of defective or improper electrical installations? (321)
A. Equipment recalls
B. Professional installers
C. Unpermitted electrical work
D. Certified electrical inspections
C
Which of the following is an example of an improper electrical installation? (321)
A. Lighting installed by an electrician
B. Appliances installed in appropriate locations
C. Installed appliances with inadequate-sized wiring
D. Recessed lighting with clearance from combustibles
C