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APPENDIX I - CHEMICAL FIRE SUPPRESSION & CHEMICAL RELEASE <br /> RESPONSE <br /> Chemical Exposure is an important concern for the LAWTF facility operations. This Appendix <br /> sets forth the specific steps and actions relating to a chemical fire suppression and chemical <br /> release response. <br /> Chemical Fire Suppression - Policy Issues <br /> 1. LAWTF employees and contractors are not trained fire fighters. <br /> 2. In general, LAWTF employees and contractors will notify 9-1-1 and sound the alarm in <br /> the building before attempting to put out any fire. <br /> 3. Employees taking action with a fire extinguisher understand that their judgment is <br /> essential to quick and safe resolution of fire emergencies; however, putting out fires is <br /> not a required duty of employees. <br /> 4. The decision to use a fire extinguisher rests with the employee and is based on their <br /> judgment, training and knowledge of the facility. <br /> 5. Employees are not required to put out fires, but are required to implement emergency <br /> procedures and notify 9-1-1 immediately. <br /> 6. If the fire is in beginning stages and the employee feels that he can safely extinguish the <br /> fire with a portable fire extinguisher, the following simple procedure should be used: <br /> a. Cut off the source of fuel to the fire <br /> b. Call 9-1-1 or instruct another person to do so. <br /> c. Attempt to safely extinguish the fire. <br /> Fire Prevention Strategies <br /> While LAWTF employees are not trained to suppress fires, they do play an important role in <br /> preventing chemical fires from starting in the first place. <br /> Employees should become familiar with the following fire prevention strategies. <br /> 1. Class A fire materials (paper, wood, trash) are not stored in process areas. <br /> 2. Chemicals are kept separate from incompatible chemicals. <br /> 3. Chemicals are kept in appropriate and approved containers. <br /> 4. Buildings in which solvents or chemicals are being stored or handled are ventilated at all <br /> times. <br /> 5. Chemical liquid or gas leaks are reported and repaired immediately. <br /> 6. Open flames are prohibited. <br /> Fire Extinguisher Inspection and Maintenance <br /> 1. Fire extinguishers are inspected monthly and kept clear of obstructions and easily <br /> accessible. <br /> 2. The extinguishers are inspected and maintained by a qualified person according to NFPA <br /> 10 and OSHA requirements. <br /> 3. The Emergency Coordinator is responsible for ensuring that all extinguishers are <br /> properly maintained and inspected. <br />