Fires are among the many hazards present at golf maintenance facilities. In fact, OSHA states that a fire is the most common emergency that a business should prepare for.
The correct use of a fire extinguisher is invaluable to help stop small fires, or even to clear evacuation routes in case of a large fire. We stress the word correct, because there are lots of wrong ways to use a fire extinguisher. This is why OSHA requires employers to train employees every year on how to assess fire hazards as well as how to use a fire extinguisher. Every person who works in the facility should know the answer to a few basic fire and extinguisher related questions:
When should a fire extinguisher be used?
Fire extinguishers aren’t meant to be used on just any type of fire; they’re meant to be used on small fires. If the following conditions are not met, everyone should evacuate the area and call the fire department immediately.
What type of fire extinguisher should be used?
As you probably know, there are various types of fire extinguishers, each designed to extinguish different types of fires. Employees should be properly trained on each type of fire extinguisher present at your facility. They should also know how to determine which extinguisher is suitable for each type of fire.
An understanding of fire extinguisher labels is essential. Your employees should know what the A,B,C classifications mean, as well as how to read and interpret the number that goes before the A, B or C rating. Keep in mind that the number before the rating has a different meaning for each type of extinguisher. Consider quizzing your employees on fire extinguisher selection and labeling.
How should a fire extinguisher be used?
Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher is very important, and all employees need to be trained to do so. The PASS method is a simple fire extinguishing technique you can use to train your employees. It’s easy to teach and to remember.
PASS Method
P – Pull the pin
A – Aim the nozzle toward the base of the fire
S – Squeeze the handle
S – Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base until the fire is extinguished
Fire extinguisher use is only one of the many components of the fire safety measures and safety training required to ensure safety at your facility. To ensure safety at your facility and be in compliance with OSHA, you should also have a full fire safety plan. The best way to keep your golf course and workplace safe are to make sure that all team members are trained and aware of the importance of following safety guidelines, and that they are properly informed and trained on safety procedures.
RECEIVE FREE POSTERS & SAFETY TIPS
to subscribe to our newsletter, get free safety posters and more safety resources!
MORE SAFETY ARTICLES
Summer heat records are being broken across the country this year, which means it’s more important than ever to take steps to prevent heat illness in your crew. Make sure you read these essential heat safety tips from Paul Watkins, a Texan Golf Course Superintendent who’s well-versed in battling sweltering humidity and 100°+ conditions at
This year’s summer has arrived, bringing scorching temperatures and potentially hazardous weather conditions along with it. With 2023 predicted to be one of the hottest summers on record, heat safety on the golf course is paramount this season! Scott Corwin, Director of Golf Course & Landscape Maintenance at Timber Pines in Florida, shares his insights
Although golf courses are often the picture of serenity and bliss, they can also be home to some potentially dangerous wildlife. From venomous snakes to fire ants and even the occasional coyote, it’s important that golf course maintenance crews take the necessary steps to keep themselves safe and protected. Todd Dattalo, who serves as
When the golf offseason rolls around and winter approaches, it is essential for golf course maintenance crews to be aware of the potential hazards that come with colder temperatures and how to protect themselves. The safety of your team should always be a top priority, and taking the necessary steps to prepare for the season
Golf course facilities store several potentially hazardous chemicals such as pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, and fungicides. That means when it comes to chemical safety in the workplace, there’s no such thing as an OVERreaction. Every one of your crew members, whether they work directly or indirectly, with chemicals, should be aware of the risks involved and
Did you know there are eight million lightning strikes worldwide, daily? Annually,100-200 people are killed by lightning strikes, with many more being injured. Golfers and golf course employees are at especially high risk when hazardous weather approaches. So how do you keep your crew safe from lightning strikes? We spoke to Brian Birney, CGCS, who
Sign up for our newsletter here