OSH Security Practice Test

You are working as a Security Guard in a factory when you come across a small, contained fire in an outside trash bin on the property. What do you do?

1. Use a fire house to douse the flames before it gets out of hand

2. Call 911 and request the assistance of the Fire Department immediately

3. Throw a floor mat over the fire to smother it

4. Use a portable extinguisher of the correct type to put it out

The correct answer is: Use a portable extinguisher of the correct type to put it out

Using a portable extinguisher of the correct type to put out the fire in the trash bin is the most appropriate response in this scenario. Fire extinguishers are specifically designed to tackle small, localized fires and can be very effective if used correctly. This option allows you to address the threat quickly and help prevent the situation from escalating into a larger danger. Choosing the correct type of extinguisher is crucial; for example, a Class A extinguisher is suitable for ordinary combustibles like paper, wood, or cloth, which would typically be found in a trash bin. Using the appropriate extinguisher not only maximizes your chances of successfully extinguishing the fire, but it also ensures that you are using a method that is safe for both you and the environment. While other options, such as calling for the fire department or attempting to smother the fire with a mat, could be part of a broader response in different situations, they may not be immediate actions that efficiently deal with a small fire. The effectiveness of having fire extinguishing tools readily available on-site underscores the importance of proper safety training for personnel in emergency situations.