OSHA #511 Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry course

Which class of fire involves ordinary combustible materials like paper and wood?

1. Class A

2. Class B

3. Class C

4. Class D

The correct answer is: Class A

Class A fires are specifically associated with ordinary combustible materials such as paper, wood, cloth, rubber, and many plastics. Understanding this classification is essential for fire safety management in general industry settings, as it helps in determining the appropriate fire extinguishing agents and strategies to deploy in the event of a fire. For instance, water is a common extinguishing agent for Class A fires because it effectively cools and dampens the materials involved, reducing their ability to ignite. Recognizing materials that fall into this category allows workers to respond appropriately to such fires and minimize risk. The other classes of fire involve different types of materials: Class B pertains to flammable liquids and gases, Class C covers electrical fires, and Class D involves combustible metals. Understanding these different classes ensures that workers are properly trained to manage various fire scenarios according to their specific characteristics.