1 Fire
For any fire, the operator should call the local fire department immediately. However, the first five minutes constitute the most critical period for controlling a fire. This SOP considers the first response when a fire starts.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) classifies fires as Class A, B, C, or D.
Class A fires (ordinary combustibles) burn wood, paper, textiles, or trash.
Class B fires (flammable liquids) burn flammable liquids such as gasoline, paint, solvents, grease, and oils.
Class C fires (electrical equipment) are those fires in or near electrical equipment.
Class D fires (combustible metal) burn combustible metals such as sodium, titanium, uranium, magnesium, lithium, etc.
If appropriate, plant staff should try to extinguish or control small fires until firefighters arrive. (It may not be appropriate or advisable for plant staff to try to extinguish even small fires with limited staff on shift.) In case of a major fire, evacuate the plant immediately
Water from hose connections or Class A fire extinguishers is appropriate for Class A fires. Fire extinguishers with special solutions or dry chemicals are required to extinguish the other classes of fires.
Fire extinguishers rated for the appropriate fire
- Call 911 and report the fire to emergency services.
- Evacuate personnel using the "Evacuation Checklist".
Use the "Evacuation Checklist" when evacuating personnel.