LIFE SAFETY

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1 I smell smoke – who do I call?
• 2 Boxes in the corridor block my way out – should I be concerned?
• 3 Is extinguisher training available?
• 4 The pressure in the extinguisher in my lab is low – Who do I call?
• 5 The tag on my extinguisher is full and is dated last year – Who do I call?
• 6 How do I check my extinguisher?
• 7 How do I check my emergency light?
• 8 How do I check the battery on an exit sign?
• 9 Where's the evacuation route map to lead me out of my building?
  

1. I smell smoke – who do I call?

Dial x911 to report a fire or odor of smoke.  Dial x1451 for other odors.

2. Boxes in the corridor block my way out – should I be concerned?

Yes, not only is the obstruction a serious problem, smoke from a box on fire can fill the hall in less than one minute.  Boxes may not be stored in the corridor.

3. Is extinguisher training available?

Yes – Fire extinguisher training is available each year in April.  Sign up by calling ext 1451.

4. The pressure in the extinguisher in my lab is low – Who do I call?

Call x5212 to have the extinguisher exchanged.

5. The tag on my extinguisher is full and is dated last year – Who do I call?

Call x5212 to have the extinguisher maintenance company check the extinguisher and attach a new tag.

6. How do I check my extinguisher?

Check the guage to see if the pressure indicates in the green. Check for corrosion or damage.Check that it is not obstructed and is visible (a sign may be needed).  Operating instructions on the faceplate should be visible. Pin is present and seal is not broken.  Check and initial the tag approximately every 30 days.

7. How do I check my emergency light?

Press the test button for 30 seconds. The light should come on and stay bright. The meter (if present) should be in the green or good range while the test button is pressed. Self testing fixtures have a green flashing light to indicate service is required. Check approximately every 30 days.

8.How do I check the battery on an exit sign?

Press the test button. The light should come on and stay bright. Self testing fixtures have a green flashing light to indicate service is required. Check approximately every 30 days.

9. Where's the evacuation route map to lead me out of my building?

The standards of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) indicate the need for evacuation route maps in many types of occupancies, such as health care centers, hotels, residential board and care facilities, correctional facilities, and child care centers.  At the NCI-Frederick, evacuation routes are posted in the Building 1074 P.A.L.S. child care center.  In all other occupancies, the NFPA and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) require a free and unobstructed means of egress from all parts of a building.  Furthermore, NFPA states "Every exit shall be clearly visible, or the route to reach every exit shall be conspicuously indicated. Each means of egress, in its entirety, shall be arranged or marked so that the way to a place of safety is indicated in a clear manner."  In meeting these standards, occupants are provided with the information needed to exit a building in a safe and efficient manner.