Unfortunately, many fires break out every day. That being said, the number of direct victims remains low leaving the socio-economic consequences both direct (loss of production for example or material damages) and indirect (such as uncertainty about the activity) often high. Taking note of the possible risks of fire is thus crucial as if not properly attended to, the price to pay could be a permanent closure. The best way to go about fighting is by implementing technical as well as organizational measured aimed at suppressing any outbreak of fire while limiting the spread and effects of the fire if it isn’t suppressed.
There are several types of ignition sources:
Mechanical sparks
Hot Surfaces
Open flames
Electrical equipment and materials
Static electricity
Smoldering fires
Lightning
Other sources of ignition, depending on the process or methods used may be present in the company such as exothermic chemical reaction and more. The prevention measures to be implemented must be adapted to each specific situation for effective prevention.
A Couple Quick Tips to Avoid These Hazards:
✅ Hot Surfaces
Constituting a direct source of ignition if its temperature exceeds the minimum ignition temperature of an explosive atmosphere, limiting the energy input of electrical equipment, controlling temperatures, insulating surfaces that must be heated to temperatures above said ignition temperature are all steps that can be taken.
If a hot surface does happen to come into contact with combustible material, the material combinations selected should be chosen so that a material subject to friction melts before reaching the minimum ignition temperature
✅ Smoldering Fires
These types of fires are usually caused by the direct action of ignition sources like a cigarette butt in a dust deposit for example you want to first focus on preventing the formation of dust deposits. To do this regularly clean to get rid of settling dust and ensure the entry of dust is limited as much as possible.
Now to prevent the risk of smoldering fires you want to first and foremost moisten the surfaces. Installing and calling on carbon dioxide detectors can also go a long way in helping you detect and identify such fires.
✅ Electrical Equipment
Electrical sparks can arise in various ways, the closing or opening of a circuit, false contact or transient currents and more. If not properly installed or maintained, electrical equipment can become a source of ignition. To avoid this risk, equipment should be designed, constructed, installed, operated and maintained in accordance to relevant regulations. Spark generating components are protected by pressure resistant enclosures with a seal gap preventing transmission of an explosive to the surrounding atmosphere for example.
✅ Open Flames
Open flames should always be considered as a source of ignition (small ones included). Flames can be present in certain heaters, welding and more. It’s essential that the presence of an open flame be prohibited in all areas where an explosive atmosphere may be present. Furthermore, operating instructions, signs and employee training should be put in place to supplement this.
As demonstrated throughout this article, the best way to avoid common fire hazards lies in prevention as it’s been emphasized over and over. It goes without saying that plans should be in place for every possible scenario including structure failures, natural disasters and more. Having the appropriate emergency alert systems as well as outdoor warning sirens is a necessary addition to your arsenal to successfully and properly cope with any and all fire hazards.
About Post Author
