Response Protocols
In the hierarchy of laboratory emergencies, fire represents one of the most immediate and catastrophic threats. The clinical laboratory is a unique fire environment, combining high-voltage electronics, flammable chemical solvents (Class B), combustible paper/plastics (Class A), and potentially pressurized gases. Unlike a standard office fire, a laboratory fire can rapidly escalate into a hazardous materials incident. Therefore, response protocols are strictly regimented to prioritize human life over property preservation. All laboratory personnel must be drilled to respond reflexively using standard mnemonics
The R.A.C.E. Protocol
The universal response algorithm for healthcare fire safety is the acronym R.A.C.E. This sequence ensures that the most critical actions - saving lives and alerting the system - occur before any attempt is made to fight the fire. The steps must be performed in order
R - Rescue (or Remove)
- Primary Objective: The absolute first priority is the immediate evacuation of anyone in direct danger
- Action: If a centrifuge catches fire, the laboratory scientist’s first move is to assist any colleagues standing next to it to move away
- Scope: This does not mean entering a burning room to save someone; it means guiding those in the immediate vicinity to safety. In a hospital setting, this may involve moving patients horizontally to the next smoke compartment (behind fire doors) rather than vertically down stairs
A - Alarm (or Alert)
- Primary Objective: Notify the facility and emergency services
- Action: Activate the nearest manual fire alarm pull station. These are typically located near exit doors
- Secondary Action: Call the facility’s emergency number (e.g., “Code Red” to the switchboard or 911). Provide precise details: “Fire in the Main Chemistry Lab, Room 302, involving a chemical spill.” Do not assume the smoke detectors have already alerted the fire department
C - Contain (or Confine)
- Primary Objective: Slow the spread of smoke and flame to buy time for evacuation
- Action: Close all doors and windows. Laboratory doors are typically fire-rated (e.g., 1-hour fire resistance). Closing the door starves the fire of oxygen and prevents toxic smoke from filling the corridor (the escape route)
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Lab-Specifics
- Fume Hoods: If the fire is inside a chemical fume hood, close the sash immediately. This contains the fire within a fire-resistant enclosure
- Gas Valves: If safe to do so, hit the emergency shut-off valve for piped gases (natural gas or oxygen) to prevent an explosion
E - Extinguish (or Evacuate)
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Decision Point: This is the only optional step. You should only attempt to extinguish the fire if:
- The fire is small (no larger than a trash can)
- You have the correct type of extinguisher
- You have been trained to use it
- Crucially: You have a clear exit path behind you. Never let the fire get between you and the door
- Evacuate: If the fire is too large, the smoke is too thick, or you are unsure, simply evacuate. Go to the designated assembly area and account for all staff
The P.A.S.S. Technique (Extinguisher Usage)
If the decision is made to fight the fire during the “E” phase of R.A.C.E., the operator must use the portable fire extinguisher correctly. The mnemonic is P.A.S.S.
- P - Pull: Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. This breaks the tamper seal and unlocks the operating lever
- A - Aim: Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire, not at the flames. Spraying the top of the flames is useless; you must smother the fuel source
- S - Squeeze: Squeeze the handle firmly to release the extinguishing agent. Most portable extinguishers have only 15-30 seconds of discharge time
- S - Sweep: Sweep the nozzle from side to side, covering the base of the fire. Continue until the fire is out. Watch for re-ignition; if it flares up, repeat the process
Classes of Fire & Extinguisher Selection
Using the wrong extinguisher can be fatal. For example, using a water extinguisher on a grease or electrical fire will spread the fire or electrocute the user. Laboratory staff must recognize the icons/labels
- Class A (Ash): Ordinary combustibles (paper, wood, plastic). Extinguished by cooling (Water) or smothering (Dry Chemical)
- Class B (Barrel/Boil): Flammable liquids (xylene, alcohol, gasoline). Never use water. Requires CO2 or Dry Chemical (ABC)
- Class C (Current): Energized electrical equipment (analyzers, computers). Never use water. Requires non-conductive agents like CO2 or Halon. Once the power is cut, it becomes a Class A or B fire
- Class D (Dynamite/Dense Metal): Combustible metals (Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium). These are rare in clinical labs but possible. Requires special dry powder (Sand/Salt). Standard extinguishers will cause an explosion
- Class K (Kitchen): Cooking oils and fats. Found in the breakroom/cafeteria
The ABC Extinguisher: Most clinical laboratories are equipped with “ABC” Dry Chemical extinguishers. These are multi-purpose and safe for the most common hazards (trash, solvents, and electronics), reducing the decision-making burden during a crisis
Special Laboratory Fire Scenarios
Centrifuge Fire
If a centrifuge malfunctions and catches fire, do not open the lid. Opening the lid introduces a rush of oxygen (backdraft) that can cause a fireball. Unplug the unit if possible and wait for the fire department
Person on Fire
If a colleague’s lab coat catches fire:
- Stop, Drop, and Roll: Instruct them immediately
- Fire Blanket: If available, wrap them in a fire blanket to smother the flames
- Safety Shower: If close by, get them under the emergency safety shower
- Do Not Use CO2 Extinguishers: Avoid using a CO2 extinguisher on a person if possible, as it causes frostbite and can suffocate them. Water or a dry chemical (if necessary to save life) is preferred, though dry chemicals can complicate wound treatment