Key Terms

Automatic fire detection device: A device designed to automatically detect the presence of fire by heat, flame, light, smoke, or other products of combustion.

Buddy-breathing device: An accessory to self-contained breathing apparatus which permits a second person to share the same air supply as that of the wearer of the apparatus.

Dry chemical: An extinguishing agent composed of very small particles of chemicals.

Exit: The portion of an exit route that is generally separated from other areas to provide a protected way of travel to the exit discharge.

Exit discharge: The part of the exit route that leads directly outside or to a street, walkway, refuge area, public way, or open space with access to the outside.

Exit route: A continuous and unobstructed path of exit travel from any point within a workplace to a place of safety.

Extinguisher classification: The letter classification given to an extinguisher to designate the class or classes of fire on which an extinguisher will be effective.

Halon: A colorless, electrically nonconductive liquefied gas which is a medium for extinguishing fire by inhibiting the chemical chain reaction of fuel and oxygen.

High hazard area: An area inside a workplace in which operations include high hazard materials, processes, or contents.

Inspection: A visual check of fire protection systems and equipment to ensure that they are in place, charged, and ready for use in the event of a fire.

Occupant load: The total number of persons that may occupy a workplace or portion of a workplace at any one time.

Quick disconnect valve: A device which starts the flow of air by inserting the hose into the regulator of a self-contained breathing apparatus, and stops the flow of air by disconnecting the hose from the regulator.

Self-luminous: A light source that is illuminated by a self-contained power source and that operates independently from external power sources.

Standpipe system: Hose connection for use by fire department or employees trained in the use of hose operations which is capable of furnishing effective water discharge during the more advanced stages of fire in the interior of workplaces.

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