Lesson 4: Fire Hazards

Glossary

Workplace Fire Hazards - Identification and Prevention

One of the keys to preventing fires, is being able to identify hazards and how to control them.
To help you identify and control hazards, read about the following 7 hazards.  Try to determine the best control (prevention) for each fire hazard, before checking the answer. 

Debris and other materials, on the worksite, which could be ignited.

Keep workplaces neat and clean.

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Smokers' materials, that are carelessly thrown away, can ignite other combustible materials. Smokers using incorrect areas, can also be a fire hazard.

Smoking and non-smoking areas should be marked with large signs and the policies enforced.  There needs to be designated and safe smoking areas.

Image Source: Pexels

Power tools can start a fire, if they short out during use.

Keep electrical equipment and tools in good repair; be diligent about replacing frayed cords and faulty equipment.
Combustible materials, such as wood or paper, can ignite if stored close to heat sources, such as furnaces, barbecues, hot water tanks, welding equipment, etc.
Plan your worksite or work area and store materials in designated areas only.

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Sparks from welding, cutting, or grinding can ignite worksite materials.

Having a hot work permit system in place, ensures safety procedures are in place.  Getting a hot work permit before performing hot work is just one of the steps in a hot work management program that helps to reduce the risk of starting a fire by hot work in areas where there are flammable or combustible materials.
Improperly stored flammable liquids can combust.

Flammable liquids must be stored in approved, ventilated containers or cabinets.
Vehicle engines can ignite gasoline or diesel fumes.

Have an enforced policy whereby everyone turns off engines during refueling.


You've learned about some of the major fire hazards, at a worksite, and how to control or prevent them.  Now you are ready to find the fire safety hazards and to make your own decisions about how to control them.

Level One of this game asks you to identify worksite hazards.  Look around the worksite and identify 10 fire safety hazards.  Place your mouse over the hazard and click to identify it.  After you have identified all 10 fire hazards, you can move to Level Two.
Level Two asks you to make a decision about how you will control the hazards you have found.  You will be offered three choices:
  • fix it myself
  • tell a supervisor
  • stop the work

More than one response may be correct, depending on the circumstances.  Click on the choices to receive feedback on how these decisions could control the hazards you have found.  Try all the choices to see what happens and have some fun while you learn!