True or False: Plastics, excluding cellulose nitrates, are considered ordinary combustibles.

When considering the classification of combustibles in fire safety, plastics—excluding cellulose nitrates—are categorized under ordinary combustibles due to their common characteristics. Ordinary combustibles encompass materials that burn easily, including wood, paper, and certain plastics, primarily when they are involved in typical fire scenarios.

The key to understanding this classification lies in the properties of various plastics. Many common plastics, such as polyethylene and polystyrene, are composed of hydrocarbon chains that ignite and burn like other ordinary combustible materials. However, cellulose nitrates are excluded due to their more complex chemical properties and higher fire risks, categorizing them differently within fire safety regulations.

Understanding this classification helps fire safety professionals make informed decisions when conducting inspections, implementing fire prevention strategies, and designing fire protection systems.