Laboratory Situations That May Create or Contribute to a Fire

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Laboratory Situations That May Create or Contribute to a Fire

Always be alert for any conditions that could cause or contribute to a fire and notify a supervisor or safety officer immediately. These situations could include:

  • Improper storage, use, or spills of flammable or combustible chemicals
  • Overloaded electrical circuits
  • Poorly maintained or damaged electrical equipment, including loose electrical switches or frayed equipment cords
  • Electrical malfunctions
  • Improper storage or handling of compressed gas cylinders
  • Improper placement of heat-producing equipment around combustible materials
  • Over-accumulation of regular combustibles like paper, cardboard, plastics