Grain Journal - July/August 2008 - (Page 104) Fire Prevention Plan OSHA WRITTEN FIRE-PREVENTION PLAN REQUIREMENTS FOR GRAIN HANDLERS The following article is excerpted on the 1998 edition of the Kansas Grain and Feed Association Safety & Regulatory Reference Manual. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) requires that all grain-handling facilities develop and implement a written fire-prevention plan, under 29CFR 1910.38(b). Required Elements The required elements of the written plant include: • A list of fire hazards such as grain dust and grain. • Proper handling and storage procedures. • Names or job titles of personnel who are responsible for the installation and maintenance of fire-protection equipment and in control of fuelsource hazards. • A housekeeping plan to control flammable waste materials, so they do not contribute to a fire emergency. The plan must include a monthly in-house inspection of fire extinguishers and an annual professional inspection of fire extinguishers. • Following is a five-step fire extinguisher inspection procedure: 1. Check the gauge for proper pressure. 2. Check for a broken seal. 3. Check the nozzle for obstruction. 4. Check the discharge hose for cracks. 5. Wipe the fire extinguishers clean. • All employee training and fire-department inspections must be documented. Training Required • All employees must be made aware of the fire hazards associated with the materials, processes, and machinery they are exposed to. • Employees, upon initial job assignment, must be educated about the portion of the fire-prevention plan that relates to them. A designated meeting area in the event of a fire must be established. Maintenance • Maintenance procedures must be included in the written fire-prevention plan. Employers must maintain equipment and systems on heat-producing equipment to prevent ignition of combustible materials. • An annual tour of the facilities shall be conducted with the local fire chief, pointing out hazardous chemical storage areas, access to bin entries, and utility shut-off locations. • Again, employee training sessions and fire department tours of the facility should be documented. Additional Information For additional information, contact: • The Kansas Grain and Feed Association, 816 SW Tyler, Topeka, KS 66612; 785-234-0461. • Your state fire marshal. Response No. 1041 104 GJ J/A http://www.warriormfgllc.com http://www.warriormfgllc.com
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