What 29 CFR 1910.160 requires (plain English)
29 CFR 1910.160 sets the general requirements that apply to all fixed extinguishing systems installed to meet a particular OSHA standard, except for automatic sprinkler systems, which are covered separately by 1910.159. Fixed extinguishing systems are the built-in suppression systems (carbon dioxide, dry chemical, gaseous (clean) agent, water spray, and foam) that protect a specific hazard or total-flood an enclosed area.
Because some of these agents are themselves dangerous to people, the standard's central protections address employee safety around discharge. Where discharge of a total-flooding agent can produce a hazardous atmosphere (for example, CO2 or other oxygen-displacing agents), the system must provide a distinctive pre-discharge alarm and a time delay so employees can evacuate before the agent floods the space, along with other safeguards. The standard also requires that systems be designed for the hazard, be inspected and maintained, have their agent supply and pressure verified, and that employees who may need to operate or be near the systems be trained.
1910.160 is the general fixed-system rule; the agent-specific sections follow it: dry chemical (1910.161), gaseous agent (1910.162), and water spray and foam (1910.163). Together they ensure fixed suppression works when needed and does not endanger the workers it is meant to protect.