1. MODUL 6
FIRE
Most workplaces provide fire training for a certain number of employees. An
untrained should not try to put out a serious fire.
When there is a fire, most people are frightened. Workers must know
the correct fire drill, or what they should do, if there is a fire. Most workplaces
have written fire instructions. These instructions should be on the wall beside
the fire extinguishers and fire exits.
Solid materials
Solid materials like wood, rags and paper can burn easily. If the fire is small, it
may be extinguished with water or with sand. Water lowers the temperature of
the burning material. Sand stops air from reaching the fire. Nothing can burn
without oxygen. Air contain oxygen.
The main danger of most small fires is that they can quickly spread.
Small fires can sometimes be contained, kept under control, by:
1. shutting doors (cutting off oxygen supply to the fire);
2. removing nearby materials such as paints, timber, gas cylinders, oil drums,
petrol, etc.
A fire needs fuel, heat and oxygen. Remove any one of these, and the fire
will be controlled.
Liquid materials

2. Most fires can be prevented
Most fires can be prevented. The following rules will help to prevent fires:
1. Do not leave rubbish lying around. The safest place for rubbish is in a
metal bin with a lid. If there are bins, use them.
2. Do not leave upon tins or drums of oil, solvent or paints standing around.
Many industrial liquids are volatile. Their vapour can be inflammable or
explosive.
3. Matches, cigarette ends, hot ashes and hot metal can all cause fires
among paper, rag or wood shavings.
4. Leave electrical repairs to the specialist. If a fuse has to be repaired or
replaced, never use thicker wire.