Safety

Combustibles, Part 5

June 5, 2018

When working around combustibles, use this list of precautions.

Mark Lamendola

Take these precautions when working around combustibles:

Before working above or adjacent to combustibles, ensure there is an egress path that won’t be blocked by flame or intense smoke. If combustibles are near the exit, move them if at all practical.
Depending upon the combustibles, wear or carry escape personal protective equipment (PPE). For example, if the combustibles are highly toxic when burned, carry an escape respirator.
Remove and/or de-energize (lockout/tagout) ignition sources near combustibles.
If you are going to introduce an ignition source in an area close to combustibles, ensure a qualified fire watch attendant is present.
Erect barriers between the work area and the combustibles or remove the combustibles.
If using portable heaters in an area containing combustibles, note the recommended distance for each heater and maintain it always.
If erecting a temporary shelter (for example, to conduct a test outdoors), don’t use scrap wood or other combustible materials. There are approved methods and materials for this purpose, use those only.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.