ISRI releases fire prevention, management plan

The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), Washington, has released a guide to help scrap recycling facilities to develop strategies for reducing the risk of fire. The new guide, "Creating a Fire Prevention and Management Plan," was developed by fire science, insurance and scrap recycling industry professionals. 

According to a news release from ISRI, the new resource is meant to be used as a guidance document to help business owners, operators and environment, health and safety (EH&S) professionals better understand and mitigate potential risks before they become bigger problems.

“The 'Creating a Fire Prevention and Management Plan' is a terrific resource for any scrap processing operation seeking guidance on preparing a plan,” says Scott Wiggins, vice president of environment, health and safety for ISRI. “This guidance document provides information on how to prepare a fire prevention plan, fight incipient stage fires and to be prepared in the event of a crisis management scenario. Even if your facility has an existing plan, this is a valuable tool to help you review your operations and make any necessary improvements.”

ISRI reports that it plans to review and update "Creating a Fire Prevention and Management Plan" at least once a year. The document provides a detailed and scalable overview of developing a plan, but each site is different, and plans should be prepared according to the type and size of the facility. Depending on a facility’s size, not all suggestions in the guide may be appropriate.

The document is available for free to individuals working in the recycling industry. ISRI members can download the resource by logging into the ISRI website. Non-ISRI members can email safety@isri.org for more information on the resource.