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• Class D Material: These materials are highly reactive and can ignite quickly, sometimes explosively, when exposed
to air or water. Special dry powder extinguishers designed for Class D fires. Water and standard extinguishing agents
should not be used as they can intensify the fire.
Examples: Combustible metals such as magnesium, potassium, sodium, titanium, and aluminium.
Make sure everyone knows the different classes of fire materials and how to extinguish them. By understanding the
specific hazards associated with each class of material and implementing appropriate safety measures, workplaces can
significantly reduce the risk of fires and enhance overall safety.
Examples of Ignition Sources
Ignition sources are things that can cause a fire to start by providing the necessary heat or spark. Here are some
common examples:
1. Open Flames
Open flames present potential hazards in various situations. Consider the following examples:
• Matches and lighters: Commonly used for lighting candles, stoves, and cigarettes.
• Candles: Used for lighting or decoration but can easily ignite nearby flammable materials.
• Torches: Used in various applications, including plumbing and metalworking.
2. Sparks
Sparks can pose significant risks in various work environments. Consider the following sources of sparks:
• Mechanical sparks: Created by tools such as grinders, drills, and saws during operation.
• Static electricity: This can occur in environments where static charge builds up, such as in textile or paper
manufacturing.
• Welding and cutting: Sparks produced during welding, cutting, or other metalworking processes.
3. Heat Sources
Heat sources in the workplace can create fire hazards. Consider the following examples:
• Sunlight: Concentrated sunlight through windows or magnifying objects can ignite flammable materials.
• Infrared Heaters: Used in industrial or agricultural settings.
• Moving Parts: Friction between moving parts of machinery or equipment can generate enough heat to ignite
flammable materials.
• Bearings: Overheating due to friction in machinery bearings.
4. Chemical Reactions
Chemical reactions in the workplace can lead to fire hazards. Consider the following examples:
• Exothermic Reactions: Certain chemicals can react with each other or with air, producing heat or sparks.
• Spontaneous Combustion: Materials like oily rags can spontaneously ignite if not stored properly.
Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is a portable device used to extinguish or control small fires in emergency situations. It is an essential
piece of firefighting equipment found in homes, businesses, and public buildings. Here are the key components and
functions of a fire extinguisher:
1. Cylinder: The main body of the extinguisher, usually made of metal, is filled with the extinguishing agent under
pressure.
2. Extinguishing Agent: The substance inside the cylinder that comes out when the extinguisher is activated to suppress
or extinguish fires. Common types include:
w Water: Used for fires involving ordinary combustibles (Class A fires).
Maintain Healthy, Safe and Secure Working Environment 409

