08/03/2026
OSHAcademy. Occupational Safety & Health Administration
DEFINITION
CHAPTER 3
FIRE
Fire is the result of a chemical reaction in which a substance combines with Oxygen,
destroying its form by the heat generated in the process.
NATURE OF FIRE
Fire in the rapid oxidation and reduction of a material in the chemical process of combustion,
releasing heat, light, and various reaction products like smoke.
Deliberated
Carelessness with lighted matches and ci******es.
Smoking in prohibited areas.
Loss of control while burning of rubbish.
Short Circuiting due to faulty electrical wiring and fittings.
Incorrect use of electrical circuits and appliances.
FIRE TRIANGLE
There are three factors to support Combustion:
Fuel: It may be in the form of solid, liquid or gas.
Oxygen: It exists in the air (21%).
Heat: Minimum temperature required to
Start a fire known as ignition temperature.
SOURCE OF IGNITION
Following are the possible sources of ignition to start a fire:
Overheating due to electrical short circuiting.
Smoking.
Hot work i.e. welding, burning etc.
Chemical Reactions.
Heating appliances.
Friction.
Static electricity.
Lightning.
Improper Storage of reactive chemicals.