When Can a Company Be OSHA 1910.157 Compliant Yet Still Experience Fire-Related Injuries in Printing and Publishing?

OSHA 1910.157 sets the standards for portable fire extinguishers, ensuring they are available, maintained, and accessible in workplaces. But compliance alone doesn't guarantee safety from fire-related injuries in the printing and publishing industry.

Understanding OSHA 1910.157 Compliance

Compliance with OSHA 1910.157 means your company has met the basic requirements for fire extinguisher availability, placement, and maintenance. This includes having the right type of extinguisher for the potential fire hazards specific to your operations. However, this compliance is just the starting point.

Why Injuries Still Occur

Even with compliance, injuries can still occur due to several reasons:

• Lack of Training: Employees might not know how to properly use a fire extinguisher, leading to ineffective fire suppression or personal injury.
• Insufficient Fire Extinguishers: While compliant, the number of extinguishers might not be adequate for the size or layout of the facility, especially in a dynamic environment like printing and publishing.
• Delayed Response: Without regular drills, employees may not react quickly enough to a fire, allowing it to spread before it's addressed.
• Improper Storage: Materials in the printing and publishing industry can be highly flammable. If not stored correctly, even a small fire can escalate rapidly.

Real-World Scenario

I once worked with a printing company that was fully compliant with OSHA 1910.157. Yet, during an unexpected fire, several employees were injured. The investigation revealed that while the extinguishers were in place and maintained, the staff hadn't been trained on their specific use. This real-world example underscores the need for comprehensive safety training beyond mere compliance.

Enhancing Safety Measures

To prevent injuries despite compliance, consider these steps:

• Regular Training: Conduct frequent fire safety training sessions to ensure all employees know how to use extinguishers effectively.
• Fire Drills: Regularly simulate fire emergencies to improve response times and coordination.
• Risk Assessment: Continuously evaluate the workplace for fire hazards, especially in areas with flammable materials.
• Equipment Review: Ensure the type and number of extinguishers are suitable for your specific environment, even if you're compliant.

By going beyond the minimum requirements of OSHA 1910.157, companies in the printing and publishing industry can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related injuries. Remember, based on available research, individual results may vary, but proactive safety measures can make a substantial difference.