[Title 29 CFR 1910.165]
[Code of Federal Regulations (annual edition) - July 1, 2002 Edition]
[Title 29 - LABOR]
[Subtitle B - Regulations Relating to Labor (Continued)]
[Chapter Xvii - OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT]
[Part 1910 - OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH STANDARDS]
[Subpart L - Fire Protection]
[Sec. 1910.165 - Employee alarm systems.]
[From the U.S. Government Printing Office]


29LABOR52002-07-012002-07-01false1910.165Sec. 1910.165LABORRegulations Relating to Labor (Continued)OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENTOCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH STANDARDSFire Protection
Sec. 1910.165  Employee alarm systems.

    (a) Scope and application. (1) This section applies to all emergency 
employee alarms installed to meet a particular OSHA standard. This 
section does not apply to those discharge or supervisory alarms required 
on various fixed extinguishing systems or to supervisory alarms on fire 
suppression, alarm or detection systems unless they are intended to be 
employee alarm systems.
    (2) The requirements in this section that pertain to maintenance, 
testing and inspection shall apply to all local fire alarm signaling 
systems used for alerting employees regardless of the other functions of 
the system.
    (3) All pre-discharge employee alarms installed to meet a particular 
OSHA standard shall meet the requirements of paragraphs (b)(1) through 
(4), (c), and (d)(1) of this section.
    (b) General requirements. (1) The employee alarm system shall 
provide warning for necessary emergency action as called for in the 
emergency action plan, or for reaction time for safe escape of employees 
from the workplace or the immediate work area, or both.
    (2) The employee alarm shall be capable of being perceived above 
ambient noise or light levels by all employees in the affected portions 
of the workplace. Tactile devices may be used to alert those employees 
who would not otherwise be able to recognize the audibile or visual 
alarm.
    (3) The employee alarm shall be distinctive and recognizable as a 
signal to evacuate the work area or to perform actions designated under 
the emergency action plan.
    (4) The employer shall explain to each employee the preferred means 
of reporting emergencies, such as manual pull box alarms, public address 
systems, radio or telephones. The employer shall post emergency 
telephone numbers near telephones, or employee notice boards, and other 
conspicuous locations when telephones serve as a means of reporting 
emergencies. Where a communication system also serves as the employee 
alarm system, all emergency messages shall have priority over all non-
emergency messages.
    (5) The employer shall establish procedures for sounding emergency 
alarms in the workplace. For those employers with 10 or fewer employees 
in a particular workplace, direct voice communication is an acceptable 
procedure for sounding the alarm provided all employees can hear the 
alarm. Such workplaces need not have a back-up system.
    (c) Installation and restoration. (1) The employer shall assure that 
all devices, components, combinations of devices or systems constructed 
and installed to comply with this standard are approved. Steam whistles, 
air horns, strobe lights or similar lighting devices, or tactile devices 
meeting the requirements of this section are considered to meet this 
requirement for approval.
    (2) The employer shall assure that all employee alarm systems are 
restored to normal operating condition as promptly as possible after 
each test or alarm. Spare alarm devices and components subject to wear 
or destruction shall be available in sufficient quantities and locations 
for prompt restoration of the system.
    (d) Maintenance and testing. (1) The employer shall assure that all 
employee alarm systems are maintained

[[Page 513]]

in operating condition except when undergoing repairs or maintenance.
    (2) The employer shall assure that a test of the reliability and 
adequacy of non-supervised employee alarm systems is made every two 
months. A different actuation device shall be used in each test of a 
multi-actuation device system so that no individual device is used for 
two consecutive tests.
    (3) The employer shall maintain or replace power supplies as often 
as is necessary to assure a fully operational condition. Back-up means 
of alarm, such as employee runners or telephones, shall be provided when 
systems are out of service.
    (4) The employer shall assure that employee alarm circuitry 
installed after January 1, 1981, which is capable of being supervised is 
supervised and that it will provide positive notification to assigned 
personnel whenever a deficiency exists in the system. The employer shall 
assure that all supervised employee alarm systems are tested at least 
annually for reliability and adequacy.
    (5) The employer shall assure that the servicing, maintenance and 
testing of employee alarms are done by persons trained in the designed 
operation and functions necessary for reliable and safe operation of the 
system.
    (e) Manual operation. The employer shall assure that manually 
operated actuation devices for use in conjunction with employee alarms 
are unobstructed, conspicuous and readily accessible.

[45 FR 60713, Sept. 12, 1980]

                  APPENDICES TO SUBPART L TO PART 1910

    Note: The following appendices to subpart L, except appendix E, 
serve as nonmandatory guidelines to assist employers in complying with 
the appropriate requirements of subpart L.

          Appendix A to Subpart L of Part 1910--Fire Protection

Sec. 1910.156  Fire brigades.
    1. Scope. This section does not require an employer to organize a 
fire brigade. However, if an employer does decide to organize a fire 
brigade, the requirements of this section apply.
    2. Pre-fire planning. It is suggested that pre-fire planning be 
conducted by the local fire department and/or the workplace fire brigade 
in order for them to be familiar with the workplace and process hazards. 
Involvement with the local fire department or fire prevention bureau is 
encouraged to facilitate coordination and cooperation between members of 
the fire brigade and those who might be called upon for assistance 
during a fire emergency.
    3. Organizational statement. In addition to the information required 
in the organizational statement, paragraph 1910.156(b)(1), it is 
suggested that the organizational statement also contain the following 
information: a description of the duties that the fire brigade members 
are expected to perform; the line authority of each fire brigade 
officer; the number of the fire brigade officers and number of training 
instructors; and a list and description of the types of awards or 
recognition that brigade members may be eligible to receive.
    4. Physical capability. The physical capability requirement applies 
only to those fire brigade members who perform interior structural fire 
fighting. Employees who cannot meet the physical capability requirement 
may still be members of the fire brigade as long as such employees do 
not perform interior structural fire fighting. It is suggested that fire 
brigade members who are unable to perform interior structural fire 
fighting be assigned less stressful and physically demanding fire 
brigade duties, e.g., certain types of training, recordkeeping, fire 
prevention inspection and maintenance, and fire pump operations.
    Physically capable can be defined as being able to perform those 
duties specified in the training requirements of section 1910.156(c). 
Physically capable can also be determined by physical performance tests 
or by a physical examination when the examining physician is aware of 
the duties that the fire brigade member is expected to perform.
    It is also recommended that fire brigade members participate in a 
physical fitness program. There are many benefits which can be 
attributed to being physically fit. It is believed that physical fitness 
may help to reduce the number of sprain and strain injuries as well as 
contributing to the improvement of the cardiovascular system.
    5. Training and education. The paragraph on training and education 
does not contain specific training and education requirements because 
the type, amount, and frequency of training and education will be as 
varied as are the purposes for which fire brigades are organized. 
However, the paragraph does require that training and education be 
commensurate with those functions that the fire brigade is expected to 
perform; i.e., those functions specified in the organizational 
statement. Such a performance requirement

[[Page 514]]

provides the necessary flexibility to design a training program which 
meets the needs of individual fire brigades.
    At a minimum, hands-on training is required to be conducted annually 
for all fire brigade members. However, for those fire brigade members 
who are expected to perform interior structural fire fighting, some type 
of training or education session must be provided at least quarterly.
    In addition to the required hands-on training, it is strongly 
recommended that fire brigade members receive other types of training 
and education such as: classroom instruction, review of emergency action 
procedures, pre-fire planning, review of special hazards in the 
workplace, and practice in the use of self-contained breathing 
apparatus.
    It is not necessary for the employer to duplicate the same training 
or education that a fire brigade member receives as a member of a 
community volunteer fire department, rescue squad, or similar 
organization. However, such training or education must have been 
provided to the fire brigade member within the past year and it must be 
documented that the fire brigade member has received the training or 
education. For example: there is no need for a fire brigade member to 
receive another training class in the use of positive-pressure self-
contained breathing apparatus if the fire brigade member has recently 
completed such training as a member of a community fire department. 
Instead, the fire brigade member should receive training or education 
covering other important equipment or duties of the fire brigade as they 
relate to the workplace hazards, facilities and processes.
    It is generally recognized that the effectiveness of fire brigade 
training and education depends upon the expertise of those providing the 
training and education as well as the motivation of the fire brigade 
members. Fire brigade training instructors must receive a higher level 
of training and education than the fire brigade members they will be 
teaching. This includes being more knowledgeable about the functions to 
be performed by the fire brigade and the hazards involved. The 
instructors should be qualified to train fire brigade members and 
demonstrate skills in communication, methods of teaching, and 
motivation. It is important for instructors and fire brigade members 
alike to be motivated toward the goals of the fire brigade and be aware 
of the importance of the service that they are providing for the 
protection of other employees and the workplace.
    It is suggested that publications from the International Fire 
Service Training Association, the National Fire Protection Association 
(NFPA-1041), the International Society of Fire Service Instructors and 
other fire training sources be consulted for recommended qualifications 
of fire brigade training instructors.
    In order to be effective, fire brigades must have competent 
leadership and supervision. It is important for those who supervise the 
fire brigade during emergency situations, e.g., fire brigade chiefs, 
leaders, etc., to receive the necessary training and education for 
supervising fire brigade activities during these hazardous and stressful 
situations. These fire brigade members with leadership responsibilities 
should demonstrate skills in strategy and tactics, fire suppression and 
prevention techniques, leadership principles, pre-fire planning, and 
safety practices. It is again suggested that fire service training 
sources be consulted for determining the kinds of training and education 
which are necessary for those with fire brigade leadership 
responsibilities.
    It is further suggested that fire brigade leaders and fire brigade 
instructors receive more formalized training and education on a 
continuing basis by attending classes provided by such training sources 
as universities and university fire extension services.
    The following recommendations should not be considered to be all of 
the necessary elements of a complete comprehensive training program, but 
the information may be helpful as a guide in developing a fire brigade 
training program.
    All fire brigade members should be familiar with exit facilities and 
their location, emergency escape routes for handicapped workers, and the 
workplace ``emergency action plan.''
    In addition, fire brigade members who are expected to control and 
extinguish fires in the incipient stage should, at a minimum, be trained 
in the use of fire extinguishers, standpipes, and other fire equipment 
they are assigned to use. They should also be aware of first aid medical 
procedures and procedures for dealing with special hazards to which they 
may be exposed. Training and education should include both classroom 
instruction and actual operation of the equipment under simulated 
emergency conditions. Hands-on type training must be conducted at least 
annually but some functions should be reviewed more often.
    In addition to the above training, fire brigade members who are 
expected to perform emergency rescue and interior structural fire 
fighting should, at a minimum, be familiar with the proper techniques in 
rescue and fire suppression procedures. Training and education should 
include fire protection courses, classroom training, simulated fire 
situations including ``wet drills'' and, when feasible, extinguishment 
of actual mock fires. Frequency of training or education must be at 
least quarterly, but some drills or classroom training should be 
conducted as often as monthly or even weekly to maintain the proficiency 
of fire brigade members.

[[Page 515]]

    There are many excellent sources of training and education that the 
employer may want to use in developing a training program for the 
workplace fire brigade. These sources include publications, seminars, 
and courses offered by universities.
    There are also excellent fire school courses by such facilities as 
Texas A and M University, Delaware State Fire School, Lamar University, 
and Reno Fire School, that deal with those unique hazards which may be 
encountered by fire brigades in the oil and chemical industry. These 
schools, and others, also offer excellent training courses which would 
be beneficial to fire brigades in other types of industries. These 
courses should be a continuing part of the training program, and 
employers are strongly encouraged to take advantage of these excellent 
resources.
    It is also important that fire brigade members be informed about 
special hazards to which they may be exposed during fire and other 
emergencies. Such hazards as storage and use areas of flammable liquids 
and gases, toxic chemicals, water-reactive substances, etc., can pose 
difficult problems. There must be written procedures developed that 
describe the actions to be taken in situations involving special 
hazards. Fire brigade members must be trained in handling these special 
hazards as well as keeping abreast of any changes that occur in relation 
to these special hazards.
    6. Fire fighting equipment. It is important that fire fighting 
equipment that is in damaged or unserviceable condition be removed from 
service and replaced. This will prevent fire brigade members from using 
unsafe equipment by mistake.
    Fire fighting equipment, except portable fire extinguishers and 
respirators, must be inspected at least annually. Portable fire 
extinguishers and respirators are required to be inspected at least 
monthly.
    7. Protective clothing. (A) General. Paragraph (e) of Sec. 1910.156 
does not require all fire brigade members to wear protective clothing. 
It is not the intention of these standards to require employers to 
provide a full ensemble of protective clothing for every fire brigade 
member without consideration given to the types of hazardous 
environments to which the fire brigade member might be exposed. It is 
the intention of these standards to require adequate protection for 
those fire brigade members who might be exposed to fires in an advanced 
stage, smoke, toxic gases, and high temperatures. Therefore, the 
protective clothing requirements only apply to those fire brigade 
members who perform interior structural fire fighting operations.
    Additionally, the protective clothing requirements do not apply to 
the protective clothing worn during outside fire fighting operations 
(brush and forest fires, crash crew operations) or other special fire 
fighting activities. It is important that the protective clothing to be 
worn during these types of fire fighting operations reflect the hazards 
which are expected to be encountered by fire brigade members.
    (B) Foot and leg protection. Section 1910.156 permits an option to 
achieve foot and leg protection.
    The section recognizes the interdependence of protective clothing to 
cover one or more parts of the body. Therefore, an option is given so 
that fire brigade members may meet the foot and leg requirements by 
either wearing long fire-resistive coats in combination with fully 
extended boots, or by wearing shorter fire-resistive costs in 
combination with protective trousers and protective shoes or shorter 
boots.
    (C) Body protection. Paragraph (e)(3) of Sec. 1910.156 provides an 
option for fire brigade members to achieve body protection. Fire brigade 
members may wear a fire-resistive coat in combination with fully 
extended boots, or they may wear a fire-resistive coat in combination 
with protective trousers.
    Fire-resistive coats and protective trousers meeting all of the 
requirements contained in NFPA 1971-1975 ``Protective Clothing for 
Structural Fire Fighters,'' are acceptable as meeting the requirements 
of this standard.
    The lining is required to be permanently attached to the outer 
shell. However, it is permissible to attach the lining to the outer 
shell material by stitching in one area such as at the neck. Fastener 
tape or snap fasteners may be used to secure the rest of the lining to 
the outer shell to facilitate cleaning. Reference to permanent lining 
does not refer to a winter liner which is a detachable extra lining used 
to give added protection to the wearer against the effects of cold 
weather and wind.
    (D) Hand protection. The requirements of the paragraph on hand 
protection may be met by protective gloves or a glove system. A glove 
system consists of a combination of different gloves. The usual 
components of a glove system consist of a pair of gloves, which provide 
thermal insulation to the hands, worn in combination with a second pair 
of gloves which provide protection against flame, cut, and puncture.
    It is suggested that protective gloves provide dexterity and a sense 
of feel for objects. Criteria and test methods for dexterity are 
contained in the NIOSH publications, ``The Development of Criteria for 
Firefighters' Gloves; Vol. I: Glove Requirements'' and ``Vol. II: Glove 
Criteria and Test Methods.'' These NIOSH publications also contain a 
permissible modified version of Federal Test Method 191, Method 5903, 
(paragraph (3) of appendix E) for flame resistance when gloves, rather 
than glove material, are tested for flame resistance.
    (E) Head, eye, and face protection. Head protective devices which 
meet the requirements

[[Page 516]]

contained in NFPA No. 1972 are acceptable as meeting the requirements of 
this standard for head protection.
    Head protective devices are required to be provided with ear flaps 
so that the ear flaps will be available if needed. It is recommended 
that ear protection always be used while fighting interior structural 
fires.
    Many head protective devices are equipped with face shields to 
protect the eyes and face. These face shields are permissible as meeting 
the eye and face protection requirements of this paragraph as long as 
such face shields meet the requirements of Sec. 1910.133 of the General 
Industry Standards.
    Additionally, full facepieces, helmets or hoods of approved 
breathing apparatus which meet the requirements of Sec. 1910.134 and 
paragraph (f) of Sec. 1910.156 are also acceptable as meeting the eye 
and face protection requirements.
    It is recommended that a flame resistant protective head covering 
such as a hood or snood, which will not adversely affect the seal of a 
respirator facepiece, be worn during interior structural fire fighting 
operations to protect the sides of the face and hair.
    8. Respiratory protective devices. Respiratory protection is 
required to be worn by fire brigade members while working inside 
buildings or confined spaces where toxic products of combustion or an 
oxygen deficiency is likely to be present; respirators are also to be 
worn during emergency situations involving toxic substances. When fire 
brigade members respond to emergency situations, they may be exposed to 
unknown contaminants in unknown concentrations. Therefore, it is 
imperative that fire brigade members wear proper respiratory protective 
devices during these situations. Additionally, there are many instances 
where toxic products of combustion are still present during mop-up and 
overhaul operations. Therefore, fire brigade members should continue to 
wear respirators during these types of operations.
    Self-contained breathing apparatus are not required to be equipped 
with either a buddy-breathing device or a quick-disconnect valve. 
However, these accessories may be very useful and are acceptable as long 
as such accessories do not cause damage to the apparatus, restrict the 
air flow of the apparatus, or obstruct the normal operation of the 
apparatus.
    Buddy-breathing devices are useful for emergency situations where a 
victim or another fire brigade member can share the same air supply with 
the wearer of the apparatus for emergency escape purposes.
    The employer is encouraged to provide fire brigade members with an 
alternative means of respiratory protection to be used only for 
emergency escape purposes if the self-contained breathing apparatus 
becomes inoperative. Such alternative means of respiratory protection 
may be either a buddy-breathing device or an escape self-contained 
breathing apparatus (ESCBA). The ESCBA is a short-duration respiratory 
protective device which is approved for only emergency escape purposes. 
It is suggested that if ESCBA units are used, that they be of at least 5 
minutes service life.
    Quick-disconnect valves are devices which start the flow of air by 
insertion of the hose (which leads to the facepiece) into the regulator 
of self-contained breathing apparatus, and stop the flow of air by 
disconnecting the hose from the regulator. These devices are 
particularly useful for those positive-pressure self-contained breathing 
apparatus which do not have the capability of being switched from the 
demand to the positive-pressure mode.
    The use of a self-contained breathing apparatus where the apparatus 
can be switched from a demand to a positive-pressure mode is acceptable 
as long as the apparatus is in the positive-pressure mode when 
performing interior structural fire fighting operations. Also acceptable 
are approved respiratory protective devices which have been converted to 
the positive-pressure type when such modification is accomplished by 
trained and experienced persons using kits or parts approved by NIOSH 
and provided by the manufacturer and by following the manufacturer's 
instructions.
    There are situations which require the use of respirators which have 
a duration of 2 hours or more. Presently, there are no approved 
positive-pressure apparatus with a rated service life of more than 2 
hours. Consequently, negative-pressure self-contained breathing 
apparatus with a rated service life of more than 2 hours and which have 
a minimum protection factor of 5,000 as determined by an acceptable 
quantitative fit test performed on each individual, will be acceptable 
for use during situations which require long duration apparatus. Long 
duration apparatus may be needed in such instances as working in 
tunnels, subway systems, etc. Such negative-pressure breathing apparatus 
will continue to be acceptable for a maximum of 18 months after a 
positive-pressure apparatus with the same or longer rated service life 
of more than 2 hours is certified by NIOSH/MSHA. After this 18 month 
phase-in period, all self-contained breathing apparatus used for these 
long duration situations will have to be of the positive-pressure type.
    Protection factor (sometimes called fit factor) is defined as the 
ratio of the contaminant concentrations outside of the respirator to the 
contaminant concentrations inside the facepiece of the respirator.

 
                         Concentration outside respirator
  PF=   ----------------------------------------------------------------
                          Concentration inside facepiece
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 


[[Page 517]]

Protection factors are determined by quantitative fit tests. An 
acceptable quantitative fit test should include the following elements:
    1. A fire brigade member who is physically and medically capable of 
wearing respirators, and who is trained in the use of respirators, dons 
a self-contained breathing apparatus equipped with a device that will 
monitor the concentration of a contaminant inside the facepiece.
    2. The fire brigade member then performs a qualitative fit test to 
assure the best face to facepiece seal as possible. A qualitative fit 
test can consist of a negative-pressure test, positive-pressure test, 
isoamyl acetate vapor (banana oil) test, or an irritant smoke test. For 
more details on respirator fitting see the NIOSH booklet entitled ``A 
Guide to Industrial Respiratory Protection'' June, 1976, and HEW 
publication No. (NIOSH) 76-189.
    3. The wearer should then perform physical activity which reflects 
the level of work activity which would be expected during fire fighting 
activities. The physical activity should include simulated fire-ground 
work activity or physical exercise such as running-in-place, a step 
test, etc.
    4. Without readjusting the apparatus, the wearer is placed in a test 
atmosphere containing a non-toxic contaminant with a known, constant, 
concentration.
    The protection factor is then determined by dividing the known 
concentration of the contaminant in the test atmosphere by the 
concentration of the contaminant inside the facepiece when the following 
exercises are performed:
    (a) Normal breathing with head motionless for one minute;
    (b) Deep breathing with head motionless for 30 seconds;
    (c) Turning head slowly from side to side while breathing normally, 
pausing for at least two breaths before changing direction. Continue for 
at least one minute;
    (d) Moving head slowly up and down while breathing normally, pausing 
for at least two breaths before changing direction. Continue for at 
least two minutes;
    (e) Reading from a prepared text, slowly and clearly, and loudly 
enough to be heard and understood. Continue for one minute; and
    (f) Normal breathing with head motionless for at least one minute.
    The protection factor which is determined must be at least 5,000. 
The quantitative fit test should be conducted at least three times. It 
is acceptable to conduct all three tests on the same day. However, there 
should be at least one hour between tests to reflect the protection 
afforded by the apparatus during different times of the day.
    The above elements are not meant to be a comprehensive, technical 
description of a quantitative fit test protocol. However, quantitative 
fit test procedures which include these elements are acceptable for 
determining protection factors. Procedures for a quantitative fit test 
are required to be available for inspection by the Assistant Secretary 
or authorized representative.
    Organizations such as Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory, Lawrence 
Livermore Laboratory, NIOSH, and American National Standards Institute 
(ANSI) are excellent sources for additional information concerning 
qualitative and quantitative fit testing.

               Sec. 1910.157  Portable fire extinguishers.

    1. Scope and application. The scope and application of this section 
is written to apply to three basic types of workplaces. First, there are 
those workplaces where the employer has chosen to evacuate all employees 
from the workplace at the time of a fire emergency. Second, there are 
those workplaces where the employer has chosen to permit certain 
employees to fight fires and to evacuate all other non-essential 
employees at the time of a fire emergency. Third, there are those 
workplaces where the employer has chosen to permit all employees in the 
workplace to use portable fire extinguishers to fight fires.
    The section also addresses two kinds of work areas. The entire 
workplace can be divided into outside (exterior) work areas and inside 
(interior) work areas. This division of the workplace into two areas is 
done in recognition of the different types of hazards employees may be 
exposed to during fire fighting operations. Fires in interior 
workplaces, pose a greater hazard to employees; they can produce greater 
exposure to quantities of smoke, toxic gases, and heat because of the 
capability of a building or structure to contain or entrap these 
products of combustion until the building can be ventilated. Exterior 
work areas, normally open to the environment, are somewhat less 
hazardous, because the products of combustion are generally carried away 
by the thermal column of the fire. Employees also have a greater 
selection of evacuation routes if it is necessary to abandon fire 
fighting efforts.
    In recognition of the degree of hazard present in the two types of 
work areas, the standards for exterior work areas are somewhat less 
restrictive in regards to extinguisher distribution. Paragraph (a) 
explains this by specifying which paragraphs in the section apply.
    2. Portable fire extinguisher exemptions. In recognition of the 
three options given to employers in regard to the amount of employee 
evacuation to be carried out, the standards permit certain exemptions 
based on the number of employees expected to use fire extinguishers.

[[Page 518]]

    Where the employer has chosen to totally evacuate the workplace at 
the time of a fire emergency and when fire extinguishers are not 
provided, the requirements of this section do not apply to that 
workplace.
    Where the employer has chosen to partially evacuate the workplace or 
the effected area at the time of a fire emergency and has permitted 
certain designated employees to remain behind to operate critical plant 
operations or to fight fires with extinguishers, then the employer is 
exempt from the distribution requirements of this section. Employees who 
will be remaining behind to perform incipient fire fighting or members 
of a fire brigade must be trained in their duties. The training must 
result in the employees becoming familiar with the locations of fire 
extinguishers. Therefore, the employer must locate the extinguishers in 
convenient locations where the employees know they can be found. For 
example, they could be mounted in the fire truck or cart that the fire 
brigade uses when it responds to a fire emergency. They can also be 
distributed as set forth in the National Fire Protection Association's 
Standard No. 10, ``Portable Fire Extinguishers.''
    Where the employer has decided to permit all employees in the 
workforce to use fire extinguishers, then the entire OSHA section 
applies.
    3. Portable fire extinguisher mounting. Previous standards for 
mounting fire extinguishers have been criticized for requiring specific 
mounting locations. In recognition of this criticism, the standard has 
been rewritten to permit as much flexibility in extinguisher mounting as 
is acceptable to assure that fire extinguishers are available when 
needed and that employees are not subjected to injury hazards when they 
try to obtain an extinguisher.
    It is the intent of OSHA to permit the mounting of extinguishers in 
any location that is accessible to employees without the use of portable 
devices such as a ladder. This limitation is necessary because portable 
devices can be moved or taken from the place where they are needed and, 
therefore, might not be available at the time of an emergency.
    Employers are given as much flexibility as possible to assure that 
employees can obtain extinguishers as fast as possible. For example, an 
acceptable method of mounting extinguishers in areas where fork lift 
trucks or tow-motors are used is to mount the units on retractable 
boards which, by means of counterweighting, can be raised above the 
level where they could be struck by vehicular traffic. When needed, they 
can be lowered quickly for use. This method of mounting can also reduce 
vandalism and unauthorized use of extinguishers. The extinguishers may 
also be mounted as outlined in the National Fire Protection 
Association's Standard No. 10, ``Portable Fire Extinguishers.''
    4. Selection and distribution. The employer is responsible for the 
proper selection and distribution of fire extinguishers and the 
determination of the necessary degree of protection. The selection and 
distribution of fire extinguishers must reflect the type and class of 
fire hazards associated with a particular workplace.
    Extinguishers for protecting Class A hazards may be selected from 
the following types: water, foam, loaded stream, or multipurpose dry 
chemical. Extinguishers for protecting Class B hazards may be selected 
from the following types: Halon 1301, Halon 1211, carbon dioxide, dry 
chemicals, foam, or loaded stream. Extinguishers for Class C hazards may 
be selected from the following types: Halon 1301, Halon 1211, carbon 
dioxide, or dry chemical.
    Combustible metal (Class D hazards) fires pose a different type of 
fire problem in the workplace. Extinguishers using water, gas, or 
certain dry chemicals cannot extinguish or control this type of fire. 
Therefore, certain metals have specific dry powder extinguishing agents 
which can extinguish or control this type of fire. Those agents which 
have been specifically approved for use on certain metal fires provide 
the best protection; however, there are also some ``universal'' type 
agents which can be used effectively on a variety of combustible metal 
fires if necessary. The ``universal'' type agents include: Foundry flux, 
Lith-X powder, TMB liquid, pyromet powder, TEC powder, dry talc, dry 
graphite powder, dry sand, dry sodium chloride, dry soda ash, lithium 
chloride, zirconium silicate, and dry dolomite.
    Water is not generally accepted as an effective extinguishing agent 
for metal fires. When applied to hot burning metal, water will break 
down into its basic atoms of oxygen and hydrogen. This chemical 
breakdown contributes to the combustion of the metal. However, water is 
also a good universal coolant and can be used on some combustible 
metals, but only under proper conditions and application, to reduce the 
temperature of the burning metal below the ignition point. For example, 
automatic deluge systems in magnesium plants can discharge such large 
quantities of water on burning magnesium that the fire will be 
extinguished. The National Fire Protection Association has specific 
standards for this type of automatic sprinkler system. Further 
information on the control of metal fires with water can be found in the 
National Fire Protection Association's Fire Protection Handbook.
    An excellent source of selection and distribution criteria is found 
in the National Fire Protection Association's Standard No. 10. Other 
sources of information include the National Safety Council and the 
employer's fire insurance carrier.

[[Page 519]]

    5. Substitution of standpipe systems for portable fire 
extinguishers. The employer is permitted to substitute acceptable 
standpipe systems for portable fire extinguishers under certain 
circumstances. It is necessary to assure that any substitution will 
provide the same coverage that portable units provide. This means that 
fire hoses, because of their limited portability, must be spaced 
throughout the protected area so that they can reach around obstructions 
such as columns, machinery, etc. and so that they can reach into closets 
and other enclosed areas.
    6. Inspection, maintenance and testing. The ultimate responsibility 
for the inspection, maintenance and testing of portable fire 
extinguishers lies with the employer. The actual inspection, 
maintenance, and testing may, however, be conducted by outside 
contractors with whom the employer has arranged to do the work. When 
contracting for such work, the employer should assure that the 
contractor is capable of performing the work that is needed to comply 
with this standard.
    If the employer should elect to perform the inspection, maintenance, 
and testing requirements of this section in-house, then the employer 
must make sure that those persons doing the work have been trained to do 
the work and to recognize problem areas which could cause an 
extinguisher to be inoperable. The National Fire Protection Association 
provides excellent guidelines in its standard for portable fire 
extinguishers. The employer may also check with the manufacturer of the 
unit that has been purchased and obtain guidelines on inspection, 
maintenance, and testing. Hydrostatic testing is a process that should 
be left to contractors or individuals using suitable facilities and 
having the training necessary to perform the work.
    Anytime the employer has removed an extinguisher from service to be 
checked or repaired, alternate equivalent protection must be provided. 
Alternate equivalent protection could include replacing the extinguisher 
with one or more units having equivalent or equal ratings, posting a 
fire watch, restricting the unprotected area from employee exposure, or 
providing a hose system ready to operate.
    7. Hydrostatic testing. As stated before, the employer may contract 
for hydrostatic testing. However, if the employer wishes to provide the 
testing service, certain equipment and facilities must be available. 
Employees should be made aware of the hazards associated with 
hydrostatic testing and the importance of using proper guards and water 
pressures. Severe injury can result if extinguisher shells fail 
violently under hydrostatic pressure.
    Employers are encouraged to use contractors who can perform adequate 
and reliable service. Firms which have been certified by the Materials 
Transportation Board (MTB) of the U.S. Department of Transportation 
(DOT) or State licensed extinguisher servicing firms or recognized by 
the National Association of Fire Equipment Distributors in Chicago, 
Illinois, are generally acceptable for performing this service.
    8. Training and education. This part of the standard is of the 
utmost importance to employers and employees if the risk of injury or 
death due to extinguisher use is to be reduced. If an employer is going 
to permit an employee to fight a workplace fire of any size, the 
employer must make sure that the employee knows everything necessary to 
assure the employee's safety.
    Training and education can be obtained through many channels. Often, 
local fire departments in larger cities have fire prevention bureaus or 
similar organizations which can provide basic fire prevention training 
programs. Fire insurance companies will have data and information 
available. The National Fire Protection Association and the National 
Safety Council will provide, at a small cost, publications that can be 
used in a fire prevention program.
    Actual fire fighting training can be obtained from various sources 
in the country. The Texas A & M University, the University of Maryland's 
Fire and Rescue Institute, West Virginia University's Fire Service 
Extension, Iowa State University's Fire Service Extension and other 
State training schools and land grant colleges have fire fighting 
programs directed to industrial applications. Some manufacturers of 
extinguishers, such as the Ansul Company and Safety First, conduct fire 
schools for customers in the proper use of extinguishers. Several large 
corporations have taken time to develop their own on-site training 
programs which expose employees to the actual ``feeling'' of fire 
fighting. Simulated fires for training of employees in the proper use of 
extinguishers are also an acceptable part of a training program.
    In meeting the requirements of this section, the employer may also 
provide educational materials, without classroom instruction, through 
the use of employee notice campaigns using instruction sheets or flyers 
or similar types of informal programs. The employer must make sure that 
employees are trained and educated to recognize not only what type of 
fire is being fought and how to fight it, but also when it is time to 
get away from it and leave fire suppression to more experienced fire 
fighters.

               Sec. 1910.158  Standpipe and hose systems.

    1. Scope and application. This section has been written to provide 
adequate coverage of those standpipe and hose systems that an employer 
may install in the workplace to meet the requirements of a particular 
OSHA standard. For example, OSHA permits the substitution of hose 
systems for portable fire

[[Page 520]]

extinguishers in Sec. 1910.157. If an employer chooses to provide hose 
systems instead of portable Class A fire extinguishers, then those hose 
systems used for substitution would have to meet the applicable 
requirements of Sec. 1910.157. All other standpipe and hose systems not 
used as a substitute would be exempt from these requirements.
    The section specifically exempts Class I large hose systems. By 
large hose systems, OSHA means those 2\1/2\ (6.3 cm) hose 
lines that are usually associated with fire departments of the size that 
provide their own water supply through fire apparatus. When the fire 
gets to the size that outside protection of that degree is necessary, 
OSHA believes that in most industries employees will have been evacuated 
from the fire area and the ``professional'' fire fighters will take 
control.
    2. Protection of standpipes. Employers must make sure that 
standpipes are protected so that they can be relied upon during a fire 
emergency. This means protecting the pipes from mechanical and physical 
damage. There are various means for protecting the equipment such as, 
but not limited to, enclosing the supply piping in the construction of 
the building, locating the standpipe in an area which is inaccessible to 
vehicles, or locating the standpipe in a stairwell.
    3. Hose covers and cabinets. The employer should keep fire 
protection hose equipment in cabinets or inside protective covers which 
will protect it from the weather elements, dirt or other damaging 
sources. The use of protective covers must be easily removed or opened 
to assure that hose and nozzle are accessible. When the employer places 
hose in a cabinet, the employer must make sure that the hose and nozzle 
are accessible to employees without subjecting them to injury. In order 
to make sure that the equipment is readily accessible, the employer must 
also make sure that the cabinets used to store equipment are kept free 
of obstructions and other equipment which may interfere with the fast 
distribution of the fire hose stored in the cabinet.
    4. Hose outlets and connections. The employer must assure that 
employees who use standpipe and hose systems can reach the hose rack and 
hose valve without the use of portable equipment such as ladders. Hose 
reels are encouraged for use because one employee can retrieve the hose, 
charge it, and place it into service without much difficulty.
    5. Hose. When the employer elects to provide small hose in lieu of 
portable fire extinguishers, those hose stations being used for the 
substitution must have hose attached and ready for service. However, if 
more than the necessary amount of small hose outlets are provided, hose 
does not have to be attached to those outlets that would provide 
redundant coverage. Further, where the installation of hose on outlets 
may expose the hose to extremely cold climates, the employer may store 
the hose in houses or similar protective areas and connect it to the 
outlet when needed.
    There is approved lined hose available that can be used to replace 
unlined hose which is stored on racks in cabinets. The lined hose is 
constructed so that it can be folded and placed in cabinets in the same 
manner as unlined hose.
    Hose is considered to be unserviceable when it deteriorates to the 
extent that it can no longer carry water at the required pressure and 
flow rates. Dry rotted linen or hemp hose, cross threaded couplings, and 
punctured hose are examples of unserviceable hose.
    6. Nozzles. Variable stream nozzles can provide useful variations in 
water flow and spray patterns during fire fighting operations and they 
are recommended for employee use. It is recommended that 100 psi 
(700kPa) nozzle pressure be used to provide good flow patterns for 
variable stream nozzles. The most desirable attribute for nozzles is the 
ability of the nozzle person to shut off the water flow at the nozzle 
when it is necessary. This can be accomplished in many ways. For 
example, a shut-off nozzle with a lever or rotation of the nozzle to 
stop flow would be effective, but in other cases a simple globe valve 
placed between a straight stream nozzle and the hose could serve the 
same purpose. For straight stream nozzles 50 psi nozzle pressure is 
recommended. The intent of this standard is to protect the employee from 
``run-away'' hoses if it becomes necessary to drop a pressurized hose 
line and retreat from the fire front and other related hazards.
    7. Design and installation. Standpipe and hose systems designed and 
installed in accordance with NFPA Standard No. 14, ``Standpipe and Hose 
Systems,'' are considered to be in compliance with this standard.

               Sec. 1910.159  Automatic sprinkler systems.

    1. Scope and application. This section contains the minimum 
requirements for design, installation and maintenance of sprinkler 
systems that are needed for employee safety. The Occupational Safety and 
Health Administration is aware of the fact that the National Board of 
Fire Underwriters is no longer an active organization, however, 
sprinkler systems still exist that were designed and installed in 
accordance with that organization's standards. Therefore, OSHA will 
recognize sprinkler systems designed to, and maintained in accordance 
with, NBFU and earlier NFPA standards.
    2. Exemptions. In an effort to assure that employers will continue 
to use automatic sprinkler systems as the primary fire protection system 
in workplaces, OSHA is exempting from coverage those systems not 
required by a particular OSHA standard and

[[Page 521]]

which have been installed in workplaces solely for the purpose of 
protecting property. Many of these types of systems are installed in 
areas or buildings with little or no employee exposure. An example is 
those warehouses where employees may enter occasionally to take 
inventory or move stock. Some employers may choose to shut down those 
systems which are not specifically required by OSHA rather than upgrade 
them to comply with the standards. OSHA does not intend to regulate such 
systems. OSHA only intends to regulate those systems which are installed 
to comply with a particular OSHA standard.
    3. Design. There are two basic types of sprinkler system design. 
Pipe schedule designed systems are based on pipe schedule tables 
developed to protect hazards with standard sized pipe, number of 
sprinklers, and pipe lengths. Hydraulic designed systems are based on an 
engineered design of pipe size which will produce a given water density 
or flow rate at any particular point in the system. Either design can be 
used to comply with this standard.
    The National Fire Protection Association's Standard No. 13, 
``Automatic Sprinkler Systems,'' contains the tables needed to design 
and install either type of system. Minimum water supplies, densities, 
and pipe sizes are given for all types of occupancies.
    The employer may check with a reputable fire protection engineering 
consultant or sprinkler design company when evaluating existing systems 
or designing a new installation.
    With the advent of new construction materials for the manufacuture 
of sprinkler pipe, materials, other than steel have been approved for 
use as sprinkler pipe. Selection of pipe material should be made on the 
basis of the type of installation and the acceptability of the material 
to local fire and building officials where such systems may serve more 
than one purpose.
    Before new sprinkler systems are placed into service, an acceptance 
test is to be conducted. The employer should invite the installer, 
designer, insurance representative, and a local fire official to witness 
the test. Problems found during the test are to be corrected before the 
system is placed into service.
    4. Maintenance. It is important that any sprinkler system 
maintenance be done only when there is minimal employee exposure to the 
fire hazard. For example, if repairs or changes to the system are to be 
made, they should be made during those hours when employees are not 
working or are not occupying that portion of the workplace protected by 
the portion of the system which has been shut down.
    The procedures for performing a flow test via a main drain test or 
by the use of an inspector's test valve can be obtained from the 
employer's fire insurance company or from the National Fire Protection 
Association's Standard No. 13A, ``Sprinkler System, Maintenance.''
    5. Water supplies. The water supply to a sprinkler system is one of 
the most important factors an employer should consider when evaluationg 
a system. Obviously, if there is no water supply, the system is useless. 
Water supplies can be lost for various reasons such as improperly closed 
valves, excessive demand, broken water mains, and broken fire pumps. The 
employer must be able to determine if or when this type of condition 
exists either by performing a main drain test or visual inspection. 
Another problem may be an inadequate water supply. For example, a light 
hazard occupancy may, through rehabilitation or change in tenants, 
become an ordinary or high hazard occupancy. In such cases, the existing 
water supply may not be able to provide the pressure or duration 
necessary for proper protection. Employers must assure that proper 
design and tests have been made to assure an adequate water supply. 
These tests can be arranged through the employer's fire insurance 
carrier or through a local sprinkler maintenance company or through the 
local fire prevention organization.
    Anytime the employer must shut down the primary water supply for a 
sprinkler system, the standard requires that equivalent protection be 
provided. Equivalent protection may include a fire watch with 
extinguishers or hose lines in place and manned, or a secondary water 
supply such as a tank truck and pump, or a tank or fire pond with fire 
pumps, to protect the areas where the primary water supply is limited or 
shut down. The employer may also require evacuation of the workplace and 
have an emergency action plan which specifies such action.
    6. Protection of piping. Piping which is exposed to corrosive 
atmospheres, either chemical or natural, can become defective to the 
extent that it is useless. Employers must assure that piping is 
protected from corrosion by its material of construction, e.g., 
stainless steel, or by a protective coating, e.g., paint.
    7. Sprinklers. When an employer finds it necessary to replace 
sprinkler system components or otherwise change a sprinkler's design, 
employer should make a complete fire protection engineering survey of 
that part of the system being changed. This review should assure that 
the changes to the system will not alter the effectiveness of the system 
as it is presently designed. Water supplies, densities and flow 
characteristics should be maintained.
    8. Protection of sprinklers. All components of the system must be 
protected from mechanical impact damage. This can be achieved with the 
use of mechanical guards or screens

[[Page 522]]

or by locating components in areas where physical contact is impossible 
or limited.
    9. Sprinkler alarms. The most recognized sprinkler alarm is the 
water motor gong or bell that sounds when water begins to flow through 
the system. This is not however, the only type of acceptable water flow 
alarm. Any alarm that gives an indication that water is flowing through 
the system is acceptable. For example, a siren, a whistle, a flashing 
light, or similar alerting device which can transmit a signal to the 
necessary persons would be acceptable. The purpose of the alarm is to 
alert persons that the system is operating, and that some type of 
planned action is necessary.
    10. Sprinkler spacing. For a sprinkler system to be effective there 
must be an adequate discharge of water spray from the sprinkler head. 
Any obstructions which hinder the designed density or spray pattern of 
the water may create unprotected areas which can cause fire to spread. 
There are some sprinklers that, because of the system's design, are 
deflected to specific areas. This type of obstruction is acceptable if 
the system's design takes it into consideration in providing adequate 
coverage.

          Sec. 1910.160  Fixed extinguishing systems, general.

    1. Scope and application. This section contains the general 
requirements that are applicable to all fixed extinguishing systems 
installed to meet OSHA standards. It also applies to those fixed 
extinguishing systems, generally total flooding, which are not required 
by OSHA, but which, because of the agent's discharge, may expose 
employees to hazardous concentrations of extinguishing agents or 
combustion by-products. Employees who work around fixed extinguishing 
systems must be warned of the possible hazards associated with the 
system and its agent. For example, fixed dry chemical extinguishing 
systems may generate a large enough cloud of dry chemical particles that 
employees may become visually disoriented. Certain gaseous agents can 
expose employees to hazardous by-products of combustion when the agent 
comes into contact with hot metal or other hot surface. Some gaseous 
agents may be present in hazardous concentrations when the system has 
totally discharged because an extra rich concentration is necessary to 
extinguish deep-seated fires. Certain local application systems may be 
designed to discharge onto the flaming surface of a liquid, and it is 
possible that the liquid can splatter when hit with the discharging 
agent. All of these hazards must be determined before the system is 
placed into operation, and must be discussed with employees.
    Based on the known toxicological effects of agents such as carbon 
tetrachloride and chlorobromomethane, OSHA is not permitting the use of 
these agents in areas where employees can be exposed to the agent or its 
side effects. However, chlorobromomethane has been accepted and may be 
used as an explosion suppression agent in unoccupied spaces. OSHA is 
permitting the use of this agent only in areas where employees will not 
be exposed.
    2. Distinctive alarm signals. A distinctive alarm signal is required 
to indicate that a fixed system is discharging. Such a signal is 
necessary on those systems where it is not immediately apparent that the 
system is discharging. For example, certain gaseous agents make a loud 
noise when they discharge. In this case no alarm signal is necessary. 
However, where systems are located in remote locations or away from the 
general work area and where it is possible that a system could discharge 
without anyone knowing that it is doing so, then a distinctive alarm is 
necessary to warn employees of the hazards that may exist. The alarm can 
be a bell, gong, whistle, horn, flashing light, or any combination of 
signals as long as it is identifiable as a discharge alarm.
    3. Maintenance. The employer is responsible for the maintenance of 
all fixed systems, but this responsibility does not preclude the use of 
outside contractors to do such work. New systems should be subjected to 
an acceptance test before placed in service. The employer should invite 
the installer, designer, insurance representative and others to witness 
the test. Problems found during the test need to be corrected before the 
system is considered operational.
    4. Manual discharge stations. There are instances, such as for 
mechanical reasons and others, where the standards call for a manual 
back-up activation device. While the location of this device is not 
specified in the standard, the employer should assume that the device 
should be located where employees can easily reach it. It could, for 
example, be located along the main means of egress from the protected 
area so that employees could activate the system as they evacuate the 
work area.
    5. Personal protective equipment. The employer is required to 
provide the necessary personal protective equipment to rescue employees 
who may be trapped in a totally flooded environment which may be 
hazardous to their health. This equipment would normally include a 
positive-pressure self-contained breathing apparatus and any necessary 
first aid equipment. In cases where the employer can assure the prompt 
arrival of the local fire department or plant emergency personnel which 
can provide the equipment, this can be considered as complying with the 
standards.

        Sec. 1910.161  Fixed extinguishing systems, dry chemical.

    1. Scope and application. The requirements of this section apply 
only to dry chemical systems. These requirements are to be used

[[Page 523]]

in conjunction with the requirements of Sec. 1910.160.
    2. Maintenance. The employer is responsible for assuring that dry 
chemical systems will operate effectively. To do this, periodic 
maintenance is necessary. One test that must be conducted during the 
maintenance check is one which will determine if the agent has remained 
free of moisture. If an agent absorbs any moisture, it may tend to cake 
and thereby clog the system. An easy test for acceptable moisture 
content is to take a lump of dry chemical from the container and drop it 
from a height of four inches. If the lump crumbles into fine particles, 
the agent is acceptable.

       Sec. 1910.162  Fixed extinguishing systems, gaseous agent.

    1. Scope and application. This section applies only to those systems 
which use gaseous agents. The requirements of Sec. 1910.160 also apply 
to the gaseous agent systems covered in this section.
    2. Design concentrations. Total flooding gaseous systems are based 
on the volume of gas which must be discharged in order to produce a 
certain designed concentration of gas in an enclosed area. The 
concentration needed to extinguish a fire depends on several factors 
including the type of fire hazard and the amount of gas expected to leak 
away from the area during discharge. At times it is necessary to 
``super-saturate'' a work area to provide for expected leakage from the 
enclosed area. In such cases, employers must assure that the flooded 
area has been ventilated before employees are permitted to reenter the 
work area without protective clothing and respirators.
    3. Toxic decomposition. Certain halogenated hydrocarbons will break 
down or decompose when they are combined with high temperatures found in 
the fire environment. The products of the decomposition can include 
toxic elements or compounds. For example, when Halon 1211 is placed into 
contact with hot metal it will break down and form bromide or fluoride 
fumes. The employer must find out which toxic products may result from 
decomposition of a particular agent from the manufacturer, and take the 
necessary precautions to prevent employee exposure to the hazard.

    Sec. 1910.163  Fixed extinguishing systems, water spray and foam.

    1. Scope and application. This section applies to those systems that 
use water spray or foam. The requirements of Sec. 1910.160 also apply to 
this type of system.
    2. Characteristics of foams. When selecting the type of foam for a 
specific hazard, the employer should consider the following limitations 
of some foams.
    a. Some foams are not acceptable for use on fires involving 
flammable gases and liquefied gases with boiling points below ambient 
workplace temperatures. Other foams are not effective when used on fires 
involving polar solvent liquids.
    b. Any agent using water as part of the mixture should not be used 
on fire involving combustible metals unless it is applied under proper 
conditions to reduce the temperature of burning metal below the ignition 
temperature. The employer should use only those foams that have been 
tested and accepted for this application by a recognized independent 
testing laboratory.
    c. Certain types of foams may be incompatible and break down when 
they are mixed together.
    d. For fires involving water miscible solvents, employers should use 
only those foams tested and approved for such use. Regular protein foams 
may not be effective on such solvents.
    Whenever employers provide a foam or water spray system, drainage 
facilities must be provided to carry contaminated water or foam overflow 
away from the employee work areas and egress routes. This drainage 
system should drain to a central impounding area where it can be 
collected and disposed of properly. Other government agencies may have 
regulations concerning environmental considerations.

                 Sec. 1910.164  Fire detection systems.

    1. Installation and restoration. Fire detection systems must be 
designed by knowledgeable engineers or other professionals, with 
expertise in fire detection systems and when the systems are installed, 
there should be an acceptance test performed on the system to insure it 
operates properly. The manufacturer's recommendations for system design 
should be consulted. While entire systems may not be approved, each 
component used in the system is required to be approved. Custom fire 
detection systems should be designed by knowledgeable fire protection or 
electrical engineers who are familiar with the workplace hazards and 
conditions. Some systems may only have one or two individual detectors 
for a small workplace, but good design and installation is still 
important. An acceptance test should be performed on all systems, 
including these smaller systems.
    OSHA has a requirement that spare components used to replace those 
which may be destroyed during an alarm situation be available in 
sufficient quantities and locations for prompt restoration of the 
system. This does not mean that the parts or components have to be 
stored at the workplace. If the employer can assure that the supply of 
parts is available in the local community or the general metropolitan 
area of the workplace,

[[Page 524]]

then the requirements for storage and availability have been met. The 
intent is to make sure that the alarm system is fully operational when 
employees are occupying the workplace, and that when the system operates 
it can be returned to full service the next day or sooner.
    2. Supervision. Fire detection systems should be supervised. The 
object of supervision is detection of any failure of the circuitry, and 
the employer should use any method that will assure that the system's 
circuits are operational. Electrically operated sensors for air 
pressure, fluid pressure, or electrical circuits, can provide effective 
monitoring and are the typical types of supervision.
    3. Protection of fire detectors. Fire detectors must be protected 
from corrosion either by protective coatings, by being manufactured from 
non-corrosive materials or by location. Detectors must also be protected 
from mechanical impact damage, either by suitable cages or metal guards 
where such hazards are present, or by locating them above or out of 
contact with materials or equipment which may cause damage.
    4. Number, location, and spacing of detectors. This information can 
be obtained from the approval listing for detectors or NFPA standards. 
It can also be obtained from fire protection engineers or consultants or 
manufacturers of equipment who have access to approval listings and 
design methods.

                 Sec. 1910.165  Employee alarm systems.

    1. Scope and application. This section is intended to apply to 
employee alarm systems used for all types of employee emergencies except 
those which occur so quickly and at such a rapid rate (e.g., explosions) 
that any action by the employee is extremely limited following 
detection.
    In small workplaces with 10 or less employees the alarm system can 
be by direct voice communication (shouting) where any one individual can 
quickly alert all other employees. Radio may be used to transmit alarms 
from remote workplaces where telephone service is not available, 
provided that radio messages will be monitored by emergency services, 
such as fire, police or others, to insure alarms are transmitted and 
received.
    2. Alarm signal alternatives. In recognition of physically impaired 
individuals, OSHA is accepting various methods of giving alarm signals. 
For example, visual, tactile or audible alarm signals are acceptable 
methods for giving alarms to employees. Flashing lights or vibrating 
devices can be used in areas where the employer has hired employees with 
hearing or vision impairments. Vibrating devices, air fans, or other 
tactile devices can be used where visually and hearing impaired 
employees work. Employers are cautioned that certain frequencies of 
flashing lights have been claimed to initiate epileptic seizures in some 
employees and that this fact should be considered when selecting an 
alarm device. Two way radio communications would be most appropriate for 
transmitting emergency alarms in such workplaces which may be remote or 
where telephones may not be available.
    3. Reporting alarms. Employee alarms may require different means of 
reporting, depending on the workplace involved. For example, in small 
workplaces, a simple shout throughout the workplace may be sufficient to 
warn employees of a fire or other emergency. In larger workplaces, more 
sophisticated equipment is necessary so that entire plants or high-rise 
buildings are not evacuated for one small emergency. In remote areas, 
such as pumping plants, radio communication with a central base station 
may be necessary. The goal of this standard is to assure that all 
employees who need to know that an emergency exists can be notified of 
the emergency. The method of transmitting the alarm should reflect the 
situation found at the workplace.
    Personal radio transmitters, worn by an individual, can be used 
where the individual may be working such as in a remote location. Such 
personal radio transmitters shall send a distinct signal and should 
clearly indicate who is having an emergency, the location, and the 
nature of the emergency. All radio transmitters need a feedback system 
to assure that the emergency alarm is sent to the people who can provide 
assistance.
    For multi-story buildings or single story buildings with interior 
walls for subdivisions, the more traditional alarm systems are 
recommended for these types of workplaces. Supervised telephone or 
manual fire alarm or pull box stations with paging systems to transmit 
messages throughout the building is the recommended alarm system. The 
alarm box stations should be available within a travel distance of 200 
feet. Water flow detection on a sprinkler system, fire detection systems 
(guard's supervisory station) or tour signal (watchman's service), or 
other related systems may be part of the overall system. The paging 
system may be used for nonemergency operations provided the emergency 
messages and uses will have precedence over all other uses of the 
system.
    4. Supervision. The requirements for supervising the employee alarm 
system circuitry and power supply may be accomplished in a variety of 
ways. Typically, electrically operated sensors for air pressure, fluid 
pressure, steam pressure, or electrical continuity of circuitry may be 
used to continuously monitor the system to assure it is operational and 
to identify trouble in the system and give a warning signal.

[45 FR 60715, Sept. 12, 1980; 46 FR 24557, May 1, 1981]

[[Page 525]]

   Appendix B to Subpart L of Part 1910--National Consensus Standards

    The following table contains a cross-reference listing of those 
current national consensus standards which contains information and 
guidelines that would be considered acceptable in complying with 
requirements in the specific sections of subpart L.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
            Subpart L section               National consensus standard
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1910.156................................  ANSI/NFPA No. 1972; Structural
                                           Fire Fighter's Helmets.
                                          ANSI Z88.5 American National
                                           Standard, Practice for
                                           Respirator Protection for the
                                           Fire Service.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 1971, Protective
                                           Clothing for Structural Fire
                                           Fighters.
                                          NFPA No. 1041, Fire Service
                                           Instructor Professional
                                           Qualifications.
1910.157................................  ANSI/NFPA No. 10, Portable
                                           Fire Extinguishers.
1910.158................................  ANSI/NFPA No. 18, Wetting
                                           Agents.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 20, Centrifugal
                                           Fire Pumps.
                                          NFPA No. 21, Steam Fire Pumps.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 22, Water Tanks.
                                          NFPA No. 24, Outside
                                           Protection.
                                          NFPA No. 26, Supervision of
                                           Valves.
                                          NFPA No. 13E, Fire Department
                                           Operations in Properties
                                           Protected by Sprinkler,
                                           Standpipe Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 194, Fire Hose
                                           Connections.
                                          NFPA No. 197, Initial Fire
                                           Attack, Training for.
                                          NFPA No. 1231, Water Supplies
                                           for Suburban and Rural Fire
                                           Fighting.
1910.159................................  ANSI-NFPA No. 13, Sprinkler
                                           Systems.
                                          NFPA No. 13A, Sprinkler
                                           Systems, Maintenance.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 18, Wetting
                                           Agents.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 20, Centrifugal
                                           Fire Pumps.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 22, Water Tanks.
                                          NFPA No. 24, Outside
                                           Protection.
                                          NFPA No. 26, Supervision of
                                           Valves.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 72B, Auxiliary
                                           Signaling Systems.
                                          NFPA No. 1231, Water Supplies
                                           for Suburban and Rural Fire
                                           Fighting.
1910.160................................  ANSI/NFPA No. 11, Foam
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA 11A, High Expansion
                                           Foam Extinguishing Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 11B, Synthetic
                                           Foam and Combined Agent
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 12, Carbon
                                           Dioxide Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 12A, Halon 1301
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 12B, Halon 1211
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 15, Water Spray
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA 16 Foam-Water Spray
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 17, Dry Chemical
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA 69, Explosion
                                           Suppression Systems.
1910.161................................  ANSI/NFPA No. 11B, Synthetic
                                           Foam and Combined Agent
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 17, Dry Chemical
                                           Systems.
1910.162................................  ANSI/NFPA No. 12, Carbon
                                           Dioxide Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 12A, Halon 1211
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 12B, Halon 1301
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 69, Explosion
                                           Suppression Systems.
1910.163................................  ANSI/NFPA No. 11, Foam
                                           Extinguishing Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 11A, High
                                           Expansion Foam Extinguishing
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 11B, Synthetic
                                           Foam and Combined Agent
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 15, Water Spray
                                           Fixed Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 16, Foam-Water
                                           Spray Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 18, Wetting
                                           Agents.
                                          NFPA No. 26, Supervision of
                                           Valves.
1910.164................................  ANSI/NFPA No. 71, Central
                                           Station Signaling Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 72A, Local
                                           Protective Signaling Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 72B, Auxiliary
                                           Signaling Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 72D, Proprietary
                                           Protective Signaling Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 72E, Automatic
                                           Fire Detectors.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 101, Life Safety
                                           Code.
1910.165................................  ANSI/NFPA No. 71, Central
                                           Station Signaling Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 72A, Local
                                           Protective Signaling Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 72B, Auxiliary
                                           Protective Signaling Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 72C, Remote
                                           Station Protective Signaling
                                           Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 72D, Proprietary
                                           Protective Signaling Systems.
                                          ANSI/NFPA No. 101, Life Safety
                                           Code.
Metric Conversion.......................  ANSI/ASTM No. E380, American
                                           National Standard for Metric
                                           Practice.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NFPA standards are available from the National Fire Protection
  Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
ANSI Standards are available from the American National Standards
  Institute, 1430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018.


[45 FR 60715, Sept. 12, 1980, as amended at 58 FR 35309, June 30, 1993]

  Appendix C to Subpart L of Part 1910--Fire Protection References For 
                           Further Information

    I. Appendix general references. The following references provide 
information which can be helpful in understanding the requirements 
contained in all of the sections of subpart L:
    A. Fire Protection Handbook, National Fire Protection Association, 
Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
    B. Accident Prevention Manual for Industrial Operations, National 
Safety Council; 425 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611.

[[Page 526]]

    C. Various associations also publish information which may be useful 
in understanding these standards. Examples of these associations are: 
Fire Equipment Manufacturers Association (FEMA) of Arlington, VA 22204 
and the National Association of Fire Equipment Distributors (NAFED) of 
Chicago, IL 60601.
    II. Appendix references applicable to individual sections. The 
following references are grouped according to individual sections 
contained in subpart L. These references provide information which may 
be helpful in understanding and implementing the standards of each 
section of subpart L.
    A. Sec. 1910.156. Fire brigades:
    1. Private Fire Brigades, NFPA 27; National Fire Protection 
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    2. Initial Fire Attack, Training Standard On, NFPA 197; National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    3. Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, NFPA 1001; National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    4. Organization for Fire Services, NFPA 1201; National Fire 
Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    5. Organization of a Fire Department, NFPA 1202; National Fire 
Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    6. Protective Clothing for Structural Fire Fighting, ANSI/NFPA 1971; 
.
    7. American National Standard for Men's Safety-Toe Footwear, ANSI 
Z41.1; American National Standards Institute, New York, NY 10018.
    8. American National Standard for Occupational and Educational Eye 
and Face Protection, ANSI Z87.1; American National Standards Institute, 
New York, NY 10018.
    9. American National Standard, Safety Requirements for Industrial 
Head Protection, ANSI Z89.1; American National Standards Institute, New 
York, NY 10018.
    10. Specifications for Protective Headgear for Vehicular Users, ANSI 
Z90.1; American National Standards Institute, New York, NY 10018.
    11. Testing Physical Fitness; Davis and Santa Maria. Fire Command. 
April 1975.
    12. Development of a Job-Related Physical Performance Examination 
for Fire Fighters; Dotson and Others. A summary report for the National 
Fire Prevention and Control Administration. Washington, DC. March 1977.
    13. Proposed Sample Standards for Fire Fighters' Protective Clothing 
and Equipment; International Association of Fire Fighters, Washington, 
DC.
    14. A Study of Facepiece Leakage of Self-Contained Breathing 
Apparatus by DOP Man Tests; Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory, Los 
Alamos, NM.
    15. The Development of Criteria for Fire Fighters' Gloves; Vol. II: 
Glove Criteria and Test Methods; National Institute for Occupational 
Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH. 1976.
    16. Model Performance Criteria for Structural Fire Fighters' 
Helmets; National Fire Prevention and Control Administration, 
Washington, DC. 1977.
    17. Firefighters; Job Safety and Health Magazine, Occupational 
Safety and Health Administration, Washington, DC. June 1978.
    18. Eating Smoke--The Dispensable Diet; Utech, H.P. The Fire 
Independent, 1975.
    19. Project Monoxide--A Medical Study of an Occupational Hazard of 
Fire Fighters; International Association of Fire Fighters, Washington, 
DC.
    20. Occupational Exposures to Carbon Monoxide in Baltimore 
Firefighters; Radford and Levine. Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 
MD. Journal of Occupational Medicine, September, 1976.
    21. Fire Brigades; National Safety Council, Chicago, IL. 1966.
    22. American National Standard, Practice for Respiratory Protection 
for the Fire Service; ANSI Z88.5; American National Standards Institute, 
New York, NY 10018.
    23. Respirator Studies for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; 
October 1, 1977--September 30, 1978. Evaluation and Performance of Open 
Circuit Breathing Apparatus. NU REG/CR-1235. Los Alamos Scientific 
Laboratory; Los Alamos, NM. 87545, January, 1980.
    B. Sec. 1910.157. Portable fire extinguishers:
    1. Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers, ANSI/NFPA 10; National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269
    2. Methods for Hydrostatic Testing of Compressed Gas Cylinders, C-1; 
Compressed Gas Association, 1235 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA 
22202.
    3. Recommendations for the Disposition of Unserviceable Compressed 
Gas Cylinders, C-2; Compressed Gas Association, 1235 Jefferson Davis 
Highway, Arlington, VA 22202.
    4. Standard for Visual Inspection of Compressed Gas Cylinders, C-6; 
Compressed Gas Association, 1235 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA 
22202.
    5. Portable Fire Extinguisher Selection Guide, National Association 
of Fire Equipment Distributors; 111 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 
60601.
    C. Sec. 1910.158. Standpipe and hose systems:
    1. Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, ANSI/NFPA 13; 
National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    2. Standard of the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems, ANSI/
NFPA 14; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, 
Quincy, MA 02269.
    3. Standard for the Installation of Centrifugal Fire Pumps, ANSI/
NFPA 20; National Fire

[[Page 527]]

Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
    4. Standard for Water Tanks for Private Fire Protection, ANSI/NFPA 
22; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    5. Standard for Screw Threads and Gaskets for Fire Hose Connections, 
ANSI/NFPA 194; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, 
Quincy, MA 02269 .
    6. Standard for Fire Hose, NFPA 196; National Fire Protection 
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
    7. Standard for the Care of Fire Hose, NFPA 198; National Fire 
Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
    D. Sec. 1910.159. Automatic sprinkler systems:
    1. Standard of the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, ANSI-NFPA 13; 
National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    2. Standard for the Care and Maintenance of Sprinkler Systems, ANSI/
NFPA 13A; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, 
Quincy, MA 02269.
    3. Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems, 
ANSI/NFPA 14; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, 
Quincy, MA 02269.
    4. Standard for the Installation of Centrifugal Fire Pumps, ANSI/
NFPA 20; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, 
Quincy, MA 02269 .
    5. Standard for Water Tanks for Private Fire Protection, ANSI-NFPA 
22; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    6. Standard for Indoor General Storage, ANSI/NFPA 231; National Fire 
Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
    7. Standard for Rack Storage of Materials, ANSI/NFPA 231C; National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
    E. Sec. 1910.160. Fixed extinguishing systems--general information:
    1. Standard for Foam Extinguishing Systems, ANSI-NFPA 11; National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    2. Standard for Hi-Expansion Foam Systems, ANSI/NFPA 11A; National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    3. Standard on Synthetic Foam and Combined Agent Systems, ANSI/NFPA 
11B; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    4. Standard on Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems, ANSI/NFPA 12; 
National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269 .
    5. Standard on Halon 1301, ANSI/NFPA 12A; National Fire Protection 
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
    6. Standard on Halon 1211, ANSI/NFPA 12B; National Fire Protection 
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    7. Standard for Water Spray Systems, ANSI/NFPA 15; National Fire 
Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    8. Standard for Foam-Water Sprinkler Systems and Foam-Water Spray 
Systems, ANSI/NFPA 16; National Fire Protection Association, National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269
    9. Standard for Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems, ANSI/NFPA 17; 
National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    F. Sec. 1910.161. Fixed extinguishing systems--dry chemical:
    1. Standard for Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems, ANSI/NFPA 17; 
National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    2. National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70; National Fire Protection 
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
    3. Standard for the Installation of Equipment for the Removal of 
Smoke and Grease-Laden Vapor from Commercial Cooking Equipment, NFPA 96; 
National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    G. Sec. 1910.162. Fixed extinguishing systems--gaseous agents:
    1. Standard on Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems, ANSI/NFPA 12; 
National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269 .
    2. Standard on Halon 1301, ANSI/NFPA 12B; National Fire Protection 
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    3. Standard on Halon 1211, ANSI/NFPA 12B; National Fire Protection 
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    4. Standard on Explosion Prevention Systems, ANSI/NFPA 69; National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    5. National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70; National Fire Protection 
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    6. Standard on Automatic Fire Detectors, ANSI/NFPA 72E; National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    7. Determination of Halon 1301/1211 Threshold Extinguishing 
Concentrations Using the Cup Burner Method; Riley and Olson, Ansul 
Report AL-530-A.
    H. Sec. 1910.163. Fixed extinguishing systems--water spray and foam 
agents:
    1. Standard for Foam Extinguisher Systems, ANSI/NFPA 11; National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    2. Standard for High Expansion Foam Systems, ANSI/NFPA 11A; National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .

[[Page 528]]

    3. Standard for Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection, ANSI/
NFPA 15; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, 
Quincy, MA 02269 .
    4. Standard for the Installation of Foam-Water Sprinkler Systems and 
Foam-Water Spray Systems, ANSI/NFPA 16; National Fire Protection 
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    I. Sec. 1910.164. Fire Detection systems:
    1. National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70; National Fire Protection 
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    2. Standard for Central Station Signaling Systems, ANSI/NFPA 71; 
National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269 .
    3. Standard on Automatic Fire Detectors, ANSI/NFPA 72E; National 
Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    J. Sec. 1910.165. Employee alarm systems:
    1. National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70; National Fire Protection 
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 .
    2. Standard for Central Station Signaling systems, ANSI/NFPA 71; 
National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    3. Standard for Local Protective Signaling Systems, ANSI/NFPA 72A; 
National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    4. Standard for Auxiliary Protective Signaling Systems, ANSI/NFPA 
72B; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    5. Standard for Remote Station Protective Signaling Systems, ANSI/
NFPA 72C; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, 
Quincy, MA 02269 .
    6. Standard for Proprietary Protective Signaling Systems, ANSI/NFPA 
72D; National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 
02269.
    7. Vocal Emergency Alarms in Hospitals and Nursing Facilities: 
Practice and Potential. National Bureau of Standards. Washington, D.C., 
July 1977.
    8. Fire Alarm and Communication Systems. National Bureau of 
Standards. Washington, D.C., April 1978.

[45 FR 60715, Sept. 12, 1980, as amended at 58 FR 35309, June 30, 1993 ]

   Appendix D to Subpart L of Part 1910--Availability of Publications 
       Incorporated by Reference in Section 1910.156 Fire Brigades

    The final standard for fire brigades, Section 1910.156, contains 
provisions which incorporate certain publications by reference. The 
publications provide criteria and test methods for protective clothing 
worn by those fire brigade members who are expected to perform interior 
structural fire fighting. The standard references the publications as 
the chief sources of information for determining if the protective 
clothing affords the required level of protection.
    It is appropriate to note that the final standard does not require 
employers to purchase a copy of the referenced publications. Instead, 
employers can specify (in purchase orders to the manufacturers) that the 
protective clothing meet the criteria and test methods contained in the 
referenced publications and can rely on the manufacturers' assurances of 
compliance. Employers, however, may desire to obtain a copy of the 
referenced publications for their own information.
    The paragraph designation of the standard where the referenced 
publications appear, the title of the publications, and the availablity 
of the publications are as follows:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Paragraph designation                 Referenced Publication                  Available From
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1910.156(e)(3)(ii)......................  ``Protective Clothing for           National Fire Protection
                                           Structural Fire Fighting,'' NFPA    Association, Batterymarch Park,
                                           No. 1971 (1975).                    Quincy, MA 02269.
1910.156(e)(4)(i).......................  ``Development of Criteria for Fire  U.S. Government Printing Office,
                                           Fighter's Gloves; Vol. II, Part     Washington, D.C. 20402. Stock No.
                                           II: Test Methods'' (1976).          for Vol. II is: 071-033-0201-1.
1910.156(e)(5)(i).......................  ``Model Performance Criteria for    U.S. Fire Administration, National
                                           Structural Firefighter's            Fire Safety and Research Office,
                                           Helmets'' (1977).                   Washington, D.C. 20230.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The referenced publications (or a microfiche of the publications) 
are available for review at many universities and public libraries 
throughout the country. These publications may also be examined at the 
OSHA Technical Data Center, Room N2439-Rear, United States Department of 
Labor, 200 Constitution Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20210 (202-219-
7500), or at any OSHA Regional Office (see telephone directories under 
United States Government-Labor Department).

[45 FR 60715, Sept. 12, 1980, as amended at 58 FR 33509, June 30, 1993; 
61 FR 9239, Mar. 7, 1996]

[[Page 529]]

   Appendix E to Subpart L of Part 1910--Test Methods for Protective 
                                Clothing

    This appendix contains test methods which must be used to determine 
if protective clothing affords the required level of protection as 
specified in Sec. 1910.156, fire brigades.
    (1) Puncture resistance test method for foot protection.
    A. Apparatus. The puncture resistance test shall be performed on a 
testing machine having a movable platform adjusted to travel at \1/4\-
inch/min (0.1 cm/sec). Two blocks of hardwood, metal, or plastic shall 
be prepared as follows: the blocks shall be of such size and thickness 
as to insure a suitable rigid test ensemble and allow for at least one-
inch of the pointed end of an 8D nail to be exposed for the penetration. 
One block shall have a hole drilled to hold an 8D common nail firmly at 
an angle of 98 deg.. The second block shall have a maximum \1/2\-inch 
(1.3 cm) diameter hole drilled through it so that the hole will allow 
free passage of the nail after it penetrates the insole during the test.
    B. Procedure. The test ensemble consisting of the sample unit, the 
two prepared blocks, a piece of leather outsole 10 to 11 irons thick, 
and a new 8D nail, shall be placed as follows: the 8D nail in the hole, 
the sample of outsole stock superimposed above the nail, the area of the 
sole plate to be tested placed on the outsole, and the second block with 
hole so placed as to allow for free passage of the nail after it passes 
through the outsole stock and sole plate in that order. The machine 
shall be started and the pressure, in pounds required for the nail to 
completely penetrate the outsole and sole plate, recorded to the nearest 
five pounds. Two determinations shall be made on each sole plate and the 
results averaged. A new nail shall be used for each determination.
    C. Source. These test requirements are contained in ``Military 
Specification For Fireman's Boots,'' MIL-B-2885D (1973 and amendment 
dated 1975) and are reproduced for your convenience.
    (2) Test method for determining the strength of cloth by tearing: 
Trapezoid Method.
    A. Test specimen. The specimen shall be a rectangle of cloth 3-
inches by 6-inches (7.6 cm by 15.2 cm). The long dimension shall be 
parallel to the warp for warp tests and parallel to the filling for 
filling tests. No two specimens for warp tests shall contain the same 
warp yarns, nor shall any two specimens for filling tests contain the 
same filling yarns. The specimen shall be taken no nearer the selvage 
than \1/10\ the width of the cloth. An isosceles trapezoid having an 
altitude of 3-inches (7.6 cm) and bases of 1 inch (2.5cm) and 4 inches 
(10.2 cm) in length, respectively, shall be marked on each specimen, 
preferably with the aid of a template. A cut approximately \3/8\-inch (1 
cm) in length shall then be made in the center of a perpendicular to the 
1-inch (2.5 cm) edge.
    B. Apparatus. (i) Six-ounce (.17 kg) weight tension clamps shall be 
used so designed that the six ounces (.17 kg) of weight are distributed 
evenly across the complete width of the sample.
    (ii) The machine shall consist of three main parts: Straining 
mechanism, clamps for holding specimen, and load and elongation 
recording mechanisms.
    (iii) A machine wherein the specimen is held between two clamps and 
strained by a uniform movement of the pulling clamp shall be used.
    (iv) The machine shall be adjusted so that the pulling clamp shall 
have a uniform speed of 12  10.5 inches per minute 
(0.5 .02 cm/sec).
    (v) The machine shall have two clamps with two jaws on each clamp. 
The design of the two clamps shall be such that one gripping surface or 
jaw may be an integral part of the rigid frame of the clamp or be 
fastened to allow a slight vertical movement, while the other gripping 
surface or jaw shall be completely moveable. The dimension of the 
immovable jaw of each clamp parallel to the application of the load 
shall measure one-inch, and the dimension of the jaw perpendicular to 
this direction shall measure three inches or more. The face of the 
movable jaw of each clamp shall measure one-inch by three inches.
    Each jaw face shall have a flat smooth, gripping surface. All edges 
which might cause a cutting action shall be rounded to a radius of not 
over \1/64\-inch (.04 cm). In cases where a cloth tends to slip when 
being tested, the jaws may be faced with rubber or other material to 
prevent slippage. The distance between the jaws (gage length) shall be 
one-inch at the start of the test.
    (vi) Calibrated dial; scale or chart shall be used to indicate 
applied load and elongation. The machine shall be adjusted or set, so 
that the maximum load required to break the specimen will remain 
indicated on the calibrated dial or scale after the test specimen has 
ruptured.
    (vii) The machine shall be of such capacity that the maximum load 
required to break the specimen shall be not greater than 85 percent or 
less than 15 percent of the rated capacity.
    (viii) The error of the machine shall not exceed 2 percent up to and 
including a 50-pound load (22.6 kg) and 1 percent over a 50-pound load 
(22.6 kg) at any reading within its loading range.
    (ix) All machine attachments for determining maximum loads shall be 
disengaged during this test.
    C. Procedure. (i) The specimen shall be clamped in the machine along 
the nonparallel sides of the trapezoid so that these sides lie along the 
lower edge of the upper clamp and the upper edge of the lower clamp with

[[Page 530]]

the cut halfway between the clamps. The short trapezoid base shall be 
held taut and the long trapezoid base shall lie in the folds.
    (ii) The machine shall be started and the force necessary to tear 
the cloth shall be observed by means of an autographic recording device. 
The speed of the pulling clamp shall be 12 inches 0.5 inch 
per minute (0.5 .02 cm/sec).
    (iii) If a specimen slips between the jaws, breaks in or at the 
edges of the jaws, or if for any reason attributable to faulty 
technique, an individual measurement falls markedly below the average 
test results for the sample unit, such result shall be discarded and 
another specimen shall be tested.
    (iv) The tearing strength of the specimen shall be the average of 
the five highest peak loads of resistance registered for 3 inches (7.6 
cm) of separation of the tear.
    D. Report. (i) Five specimens in each of the warp and filling 
directions shall be tested from each sample unit.
    (ii) The tearing strength of the sample unit shall be the average of 
the results obtained from the specimens tested in each of the warp and 
filling directions and shall be reported separately to the nearest 0.1-
pound (.05 kg).
    E. Source. These test requirements are contained in ``Federal Test 
Method Standard 191, Method 5136'' and are reproduced for your 
convenience.
    (3) Test method for determining flame resistance of cloth; vertical.
    A. Test specimen. The specimen shall be a rectangle of cloth 2\3/4\ 
inches (7.0 cm) by 12 inches (30.5 cm) with the long dimension parallel 
to either the warp or filling direction of the cloth. No two warp 
specimens shall contain the same warp yarns, and no two filling 
specimens shall contain the same filling yarn.
    B. Number of determinations. Five specimens from each of the warp 
and filling directions shall be tested from each sample unit.
    C. Apparatus. (i) Cabinet. A cabinet and accessories shall be 
fabricated in accordance with the requirements specified in Figures L-1, 
L-2, and L-3. Galvanized sheet metal or other suitable metal shall be 
used. The entire inside back wall of the cabinet shall be painted black 
to facilitate the viewing of the test specimen and pilot flame.
    (ii) Burner. The burner shall be equipped with a variable orifice to 
adjust the flame height, a barrel having a \3/8\-inch (1 cm) inside 
diameter and a pilot light.
    (a) The burner may be constructed by combining a \3/8\-inch (1 cm) 
inside diameter barrel 3 \1/4\ inches (7.6 .6 
cm) long from a fixed orifice burner with a base from a variable orifice 
burner.
    (b) The pilot light tube shall have a diameter of approximately \1/
16\-inch (.2 cm) and shall be spaced \1/8\-inch (.3 cm) away from the 
burner edge with a pilot flame \1/8\-inch (.3 cm) long.
    (c) The necessary gas connections and the applicable plumbing shall 
be as specified in Figure L-4 except that a solenoid valve may be used 
in lieu of the stopcock valve to which the burner is attached. The 
stopcock valve or solenoid valve, whichever is used, shall be capable of 
being fully opened or fully closed in 0.1-second.
    (d) On the side of the barrel of the burner, opposite the pilot 
light there shall be a metal rod of approximately \1/8\-inch (.3 cm) 
diameter spaced \1/2\-inch (1.3 cm) from the barrel and extending above 
the burner. The rod shall have two \5/16\-inch (.8 cm) prongs marking 
the distances of \3/4\-inch (1.9 cm) and 1\1/2\ inches (3.8 cm) above 
the top of the burner.
    (e) The burner shall be fixed in a position so that the center of 
the barrel of the burner is directly below the center of the specimen.
    (iii) There shall be a control valve system with a delivery rate 
designed to furnish gas to the burner under a pressure of 2\1/2\ 
\1/4\ (psi) (17.5 1.8 kPa) per square inch at 
the burner inlet (see (g)(3)(vi)(A)). The manufacturer's recommended 
delivery rate for the valve system shall be included in the required 
pressure.
    (iv) A synthetic gas mixture shall be of the following composition 
within the following limits (analyzed at standard conditions): 55 
3 percent hydrogen, 24 1 percent methane, 3 
1 percent ethane, and 18 1 percent carbon 
monoxide which will give a specific gravity of 0.365 0.018 
(air = 1) and a B.T.U. content of 540 20 per cubic foot 
(20.1 3.7 kJ/L)(dry basis) at 69.8  deg.F (21  deg.C).
    (v) There shall be metal hooks and weights to produce a series of 
total loads to determine length of char. The metal hooks shall consist 
of No. 19 gage steel wire or equivalent and shall be made from 3-inch 
(7.6 cm) lengths of wire and bent \1/2\-inch (1.3 cm) from one end to a 
45 degree hook. One end of the hook shall be fastened around the neck of 
the weight to be used.
    (vi) There shall be a stop watch or other device to measure the 
burning time to 0.2-second.
    (vii) There shall be a scale, graduated in 0.1 inch (.3 cm) to 
measure the length of char.
    D. Procedure. (i) The material undergoing test shall be evaluated 
for the characteristics of after-flame time and char length on each 
specimen.
    (ii) All specimens to be tested shall be at moisture equilibrium 
under standard atmospheric conditions in accordance with paragraph (3)C 
of this appendix. Each specimen to be tested shall be exposed to the 
test flame within 20 seconds after removal from the standard atmosphere. 
In case of dispute, all testing will be conducted under Standard 
Atmospheric Conditions in accordance with paragraph (3)C of this 
appendix.

[[Page 531]]

    (iii) The specimen in its holder shall be suspended vertically in 
the cabinet in such a manner that the entire length of the specimen is 
exposed and the lower end is \3/4\-inch (1.9 cm) above the top of the 
gas burner. The apparatus shall be set up in a draft free area.
    (iv) Prior to inserting the specimen, the pilot flame shall be 
adjusted to approximately \1/8\-inch (.3 cm) in height measured from its 
lowest point to the tip.
    The burner flame shall be adjusted by means of the needle valve in 
the base of the burner to give a flame height of 1\1/2\ inches (3.8 cm) 
with the stopcock fully open and the air supply to the burner shut off 
and taped. The 1\1/2\-inch (3.8 cm) flame height is obtained by 
adjusting the valve so that the uppermost portion (tip) of the flame is 
level with the tip of the metal prong (see Figure L-2) specified for 
adjustment of flame height. It is an important aspect of the evaluation 
that the flame height be adjusted with the tip of the flame level with 
the tip of the metal prong. After inserting the specimen, the stopcock 
shall be fully opened, and the burner flame applied vertically at the 
middle of the lower edge of the specimen for 12 seconds and the burner 
turned off. The cabinet door shall remain shut during testing.
    (v) The after-flame shall be the time the specimen continues to 
flame after the burner flame is shut off.
    (vi) After each specimen is removed, the test cabinet shall be 
cleared of fumes and smoke prior to testing the next specimen.
    (vii) After both flaming and glowing have ceased, the char length 
shall be measured. The char length shall be the distance from the end of 
the specimen, which was exposed to the flame, to the end of a tear (made 
lengthwise) of the specimen through the center of the charred area as 
follows: The specimen shall be folded lengthwise and creased by hand 
along a line through the highest peak of the charred area. The hook 
shall be inserted in the specimen (or a hole, \1/4\-inch (.6 cm) 
diameter or less, punched out for the hook) at one side of the charred 
area \1/4\-inch (.6 cm) from the adjacent outside edge and \1/4\-inch 
(.6 cm) in from the lower end. A weight of sufficient size such that the 
weight and hook together shall equal the total tearing load required in 
Table L-2 of this section shall be attached to the hook.
    (viii) A tearing force shall be applied gently to the specimen by 
grasping the corner of the cloth at the opposite edge of the char from 
the load and raising the specimen and weight clear of the supporting 
surface. The end of the tear shall be marked off on the edge and the 
char length measurement made along the undamaged edge.
    Loads for determining char length applicable to the weight of the 
test cloth shall be as shown in Table L-2.

                              Table L-2 \1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Total
                                                               tearing
                                                              weight for
 Specified weight per square yard of cloth before any fire   determining
           retardant treatment or coating--ounces            the charred
                                                               length--
                                                                pound
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.0 to 6.0.................................................         0.25
Over 6.0 to 15.0...........................................         0.50
Over 15.0 to 23.0..........................................         0.75
Over 23.0..................................................          1.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ To change into S.I. (System International) units, 1 ounce=28.35
  grams, 1 pound=453 grams, 1 yard=.91 metre.

    (ix) The after-flame time of the specimen shall be recorded to the 
nearest 0.2-second and the char length to the nearest 0.1-inch (.3 cm).
    E. Report. (i) The after-flame time and char length of the sample 
unit shall be the average of the results obtained from the individual 
specimens tested. All values obtained from the individual specimens 
shall be recorded.
    (ii) The after-flame time shall be reported to the nearest 0.2-
second and the char length to the nearest 0.1-inch (.3 cm).
    F. Source. These test requirements are contained in ``Federal Test 
Method Standard 191, Method 5903 (1971)'' and are reproduced for your 
convenience.

[[Page 532]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC27OC91.032


[[Page 533]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC27OC91.033


[[Page 534]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC27OC91.034


[[Page 535]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC27OC91.035

[45 FR 60715, Sept. 12, 1980; 46 FR 24557, May 1, 1981]