In a new toolbox talk, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health emphasizes how “workers can benefit from awareness of possible fire hazards at the worksite and how to protect themselves,” according to Safety+Health magazine.
“Your employer is required to develop a fire protection program and explain it to their workers,” NIOSH said. “The program should include helping workers identify and correct fire hazards.”
The toolbox talk includes a real-world narrative and safety tips, such as the following:
- Identify possible fire hazards before work begins.
- Check for working smoke alarms in areas under construction.
- Ensure you know where fire extinguishers are and how to use them.
- Keep flammable and combustible materials away from heat and ignition sources, such as portable heaters.
- Have a ventilation system that brings in fresh air and removes flammable and combustible fumes and vapors.
