Mastering Flammable Liquids and Gas Response: Why Training Matters

Responding to incidents with flammable liquids and gases in the workplace requires specific training tailored to OSHA regulations and industry standards. Grasping these standards and their training requirements is crucial for effective firefighting tactics and ensuring safety. The following article will cover how guidelines from NFPA 1081, NFPA 600, OSHA 1910.156, and OSHA 1910.20 outline these essential training criteria. However, before we can even get into training, facilities must first know OSHA’s Fire Brigade 1910.156(b)1 Organizational Statement requirement.

“The employer shall prepare and maintain a statement or written policy which establishes the existence of a fire brigade; the basic organizational structure; the type, amount, and frequency of training to be provided to fire brigade members; the expected number of members in the fire brigade; and the functions that the fire brigade is to perform at the workplace.”

Understanding the Fire Risk: Flammable substances can turn minor incidents into major emergencies, highlighting the need for comprehensive training. Recognizing incipient level fires and how they quickly escalate is crucial for prompt and effective response, as emphasized by NFPA 1081 in establishing a skilled fire brigade within workplaces handling these materials.

Training Insights from NFPA and OSHA: NFPA 600 and 1081 serve as comprehensive guides for organizing teams and training on flammable liquids and gases. OSHA's 1910.156(c)(1) standard specifically mandates that employers provide training and education for all fire brigade members commensurate with their duties and functions before they perform fire brigade emergency activities. Fire brigade leaders and training instructors are also required to receive more comprehensive training and education compared to the general membership of the fire brigade.

Unleashing the Heroic Incident Commander: The role of the Incident Commander is pivotal in fire incidents involving flammable substances, necessitating comprehensive training as explicitly listed in NFPA 600, 1081 and OSHA 1910.120. These standards outline initial training requirements covering fire behavior, hazard assessment, firefighting tactics, and emergency response protocols. Additionally, they mandate periodic training to maintain and enhance Incident Commanders' skills in fire incident management, risk assessment, communication, and decision-making. These ongoing training efforts ensure that Incident Commanders stay updated on new hazards, technologies, and best practices in handling flammable liquids and gases and executing efficient firefighting tactics.

Incident Commander / Fire Brigade "Leader" certification is required by law! 1910.120(q)(6)(v)

Foam Power and Fire Fighting Tactics: Understanding foam application techniques is crucial for effective fire suppression. NFPA standards provide guidelines for foam training, covering foam types, application rates, and equipment operation. However, it's important to note that many published application amounts may not hold steadfast in real-world applications. This highlights the need for practical training and ongoing evaluation to ensure the accurate and efficient use of foam in firefighting scenarios, especially with the adoption of new PFAS-free, a.k.a. green foam, which may have different application characteristics.

Safety as the Ultimate Goal: Adhering to NFPA 1081, NFPA 600, OSHA 1910.156, and OSHA 1910.20 ensures that workplaces meet specific training requirements tailored to handle flammable liquids and gases safely. By staying updated with these standards, organizations can ensure that their teams are well-prepared to address fire emergencies and deploy efficient firefighting tactics, ultimately prioritizing the safety of personnel and property. Many of you are well aware of the OSHA's proposed rule change to the Emergency Response Standard.

OSHA's Proposed Emergency Response Rule Update Link

In conclusion, the importance of comprehensive training in handling flammable liquids and gases cannot be overstated. As OSHA prepares to update its standards, it's evident that proper training will become even more stringent to ensure workplaces are well-prepared to address fire emergencies effectively. By staying proactive and adhering to industry guidelines, organizations can create safer environments and equip their teams with the skills needed to mitigate fire risks and protect lives and property

If you are overwhelmed by the confusing complexity of OSHA and NFPA compliance standards for your ERT, you are not alone. The good news is our experienced staff at E-Med Training Services, LLC is here to answer your compliance questions free of charge regarding equipment, training, and record keeping; as well as many of the other emergency response regulations.

Simply contact us at info@emedtraining.com with your compliance questions and we will work to find answers promptly; always free of charge, and never any pressure to purchase our services.

For free assistance in finding “blind-spots” in your ERT program, contact us at the email above.

Why is it free? Because the risk of negative consequences for Emergency Response Teams are simply too great to ignore.

J. TRAVIS CARRICATO has been a member of the fire service for over 27 years. He retired as an Operations Division Chief with the Columbia (SC) Fire Department and served as a member of SC-TF1 for over nine years, rising to the position of Task Force Leader. Carricato is also the principal owner of E-Med Training Services, LLC and BrigadeIQ.com which specializes in Emergency Response training and compliance solutions for the industrial sector. An accomplished speaker and instructor, he has delivered training programs nationally as well as internationally in Russia, Saudi Arabia, China, and Kuwait.