Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) Safety Assessment Practice Test

If an employee notices a fire starting in a trash can, what is the appropriate first step?

1. Drag the trash can outside

2. Attempt to extinguish the fire

3. Sound the alarm

4. Place the lid on the trash can

The correct answer is: Sound the alarm

The appropriate first step upon noticing a fire starting in a trash can is to sound the alarm. This action is crucial because it alerts all individuals in the vicinity to evacuate the area and prepares them for a potential emergency. By activating the fire alarm system, you ensure that emergency personnel are notified promptly, which can be critical in managing the situation effectively. Ensuring the safety of yourself and others is the priority in any fire situation. While attempting to extinguish the fire or dragging the trash can outside might seem like immediate solutions, these actions can potentially put you at risk, especially if the fire is larger than anticipated or if it poses other hazards such as smoke inhalation. Additionally, placing a lid on the trash can may contain the fire for a brief moment but does not address the need for alerting others to the danger. Thus, sounding the alarm is the standard protocol in workplace safety, as it secures the safety of everyone and allows for trained personnel to respond appropriately to the fire.