Know whether to use or evacuate
Learning objective: Explain your assigned role before an emergency occurs.
An extinguisher hangs near your work area. Does that mean you should use it if a fire starts? No. First know the employer’s fire policy and your role. Some workers must leave at once. Others may use specific equipment within a trained and assigned role.
This construction track uses 1926.150 and 1926.21. The employer must provide a fire protection program throughout construction and demolition. Needed equipment must be provided without delay as hazards arise. Workers need instruction in hazards and their controls. A general-industry exemption cannot be used to erase construction fire protection duties.
Ask how your employer’s roles fit the overall project plan and other trades. Know who reports a fire, how people are alerted and where to meet. A person from another trade cannot assign you a fire-fighting duty merely by handing you an extinguisher.
If your role is evacuation only, raise the alarm and leave as the plan directs. Do not pause to try an extinguisher because the flames look small. If your role is unclear, get it resolved before an emergency; do not improvise fire fighting.
This is an online knowledge component. It is not an OSHA approval, fire brigade qualification or work authorization. The employer must supply the actual site actions and any required equipment training. State Plan and other applicable rules may add duties.
Source context: 1926.21(b)(2); 1926.150(a), (e); actual site emergency plan