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Look to OSHA, not Life Safety Code(r), for training rules

Ambulatory Safety Monitor, June 23, 2004

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Are you looking for information on training requirements for fire extinguishers? If so, don't turn to the Life Safety Code for specifics.

It merely states that healthcare organizations must provide this equipment and meet associated criteria in NFPA 10, Portable Fire Extinguishers.

However, NFPA 10 doesn't offer much on extinguisher training. A nonmandatory annex note (A.1.2) states that occupants should have proper training before they use extinguishers, but it doesn't go into more details.

Instead, look to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for information, says J.R. Nerat, technical support manager at Badger Fire Protection in Charlottesville, VA.

Under OSHA's standard for portable fire extinguishers (1910.157), you'll find requirements for the annual training of employees on using extinguishers in a facility. Generally speaking, OSHA doesn't require employers to provide extinguishers; they may instead choose to evacuate their buildings if they meet various other requirements for fire alarm systems and training.

But for many healthcare facilities, total evacuation is a last resort, and as such, they must supply extinguishers and related training under 1910.157.

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