Section 5
Firefighting measures
Information Elements
- Suitable and unsuitable extinguishing media
- Specific hazards arising from the hazardous product, such as the nature of any hazardous combustion products
- Special protective equipment and precautions for fire-fighters
Most common non-compliances
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The indication of special protective equipment for firefighters does not sufficiently identify the type of protection needed.
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Suitable and unsuitable extinguishing media are not disclosed.
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Suitable extinguishing media is disclosed but unsuitable extinguishing media is not disclosed.
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Thermal decomposition products are disclosed as combustion products.
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Combustion products are not disclosed.
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Information on specific hazards arising from the hazardous product, such as the nature of any hazardous combustion product, is not disclosed for products with fire hazard classifications such as combustible dusts, organic peroxides, or self-heating substances and mixtures.
Tips
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Extinguishing Media
The specific extinguishing media that is suitable to use in fire-fighting measures must be disclosed.
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For example, specify carbon dioxide, dry chemical powder or appropriate foam.
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The specific extinguishing media that would not be appropriate to use (unsuitable) in fire-fighting measures must be disclosed.
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For example, if a specific extinguishing media may cause chemical or physical reactions resulting in an additional potential hazard, this information must be included on the safety data sheet (SDS).
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For example, if the product reacts with water and other common extinguishants, this information must be included on the SDS such as “Water is not effective for extinguishing a fire. It may not cool product below its flash point.”
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If there are no known unsuitable extinguishing media, “Not applicable” or an indication to that effect must be disclosed.
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Specific Hazards
Information on specific hazards arising from the hazardous product must be disclosed.
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For example: (a) fire hazards of the product, (b) reactivity hazards that relate to fire and explosion potential, and/or (c) any additional hazards created by fire conditions.
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For example, the statement may include the following information: Flammable liquid and vapour. Can ignite at room temperature. Releases vapour that can form an explosive mixture with air. Can accumulate static charge by flow, splashing or agitation. Forms corrosive chemicals on contact with water. May accumulate in hazardous amounts in low-lying areas, especially inside confined spaces, resulting in a fire and/or health hazard.
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The hazards of expected combustion products and whether increased temperatures in a fire situation can increase the hazards of the product must be disclosed.
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For example, a product that does not release toxic vapours at room temperature may release toxic vapours in a fire situation. Evacuate the area. Fight fire from a safe distance or a protected location. Approach fire from upwind to avoid hazardous vapours or gases.
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Special Protective Equipment for Fire-Fighters
Special protective equipment for fire fighters must be disclosed, as applicable, and must be consistent with the product’s classification.
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Precautions for Fire-Fighters
Important precautions that firefighters should take considering the product’s hazards and any other specific hazards arising from the product in a fire situation must be disclosed.
