Think for a moment what happens when a fire breaks out. What kind of fire is it and what type of extinguisher do I need for this fire? Where is the closest fire extinguisher? Is it where it belongs? When was it serviced last? Ordinarily, people never think twice about fire extinguishers until a fire is burning. It’s too late to be asking these questions when the smoke starts to billow.
There is a large variety to select from, with many considerations to account for when deciding which extinguisher to choose for your site. Our experts will assist you to select the best options available for your Fire Extinguisher needs. We have a variety of sizes from hand held portable to wheeled fire extinguishers with a variety of fire suppressants.
It doesn’t matter what type of business you manage, fire extinguishers are necessary to include as part of your standard safety equipment. Extinguishers are not intended to tackle large fires however they can buy you valuable time and assist you to escape during a fire emergency.
When properly trained to use a fire extinguisher, they can be used to put out small, manageable fires. There must be no risk to the user and a clear exit route must be accessible.
Fire safety isn’t always straight forward, as there are many types and sizes of extinguisher to choose from.
1. Do you have the right training?
Fire extinguishers should only be used by trained and capable employees, often designated as fire marshals. Fire marshals should assess each situation, only tackling a fire if they feel safe to do so.
When using an extinguisher, use the PASS system – Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.
- Pull the pin from the top of the extinguisher.
- Aim the extinguisher at the base of the flame.
- Squeeze the trigger or top handle.
- Sweep from side to side at the base of the flame.
For floor fires, sweep from the edges in. For wall fires, sweep from the bottom up.
- Never walk away from a fire, even if you think it is out. The residue may reignite.
- Always stand between the escape route and the fire so you can leave safely if the fire grows.
- If the fire grows too large, leave the area. Activate the fire alarm to evacuate the area.
2. Have you got the correct extinguishers for your site?
There are many different types of extinguishers, each designed to put out a different type of fire:
- Dry Chemical – Standard (ABC, BC, Purple K)
- Dry Chemical – Specialist (Class D)
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
- Water
- Water Mist
- Wet Chemical (Class K)
- Clean Agent
- Foam
There are five classes of fire: Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, and Class K:
- Class A – Combustible Materials: Fires involving ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, fabric, rubber, and many plastics.
- Class B – Flammable Liquids or Gases: Fires involving combustible liquids, petroleum greases, tars, oils, oil-based
- paints, solvents, lacquers, alcohols, and flammable gases.
- Class C – Electrical Fires: Fire that involves energized (live) electrical equipment, like appliances, wiring, batteries, or circuit breakers. Fires caused by electrical equipment, which can fall into any of the classifications.
- Class D – Combustible Metals: Fires involving combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, sodium, and potassium.
- Class K – Commercial Cooking Equipment: Fires involving combustible cooking media (vegetable or animal oils and fats).
There is no single extinguisher type that works on all classes of fire, so it’s essential you have the right types of fire extinguishers for possible incidents on your premises.
3. Are your fire extinguishers properly maintained?
It’s important to have fire extinguishers serviced on an annual basis by trained persons with suitable testing equipment and facilities. Fire extinguishers should be inspected at least monthly. Visually check for the following items. Customize this list for your workplace.
- Are the fire extinguishers well supported, and hangers are fastened solidly?
- Are the fire extinguishers accessible?
- Can be easily reached
- There are no obstructions
- Location signs are clear
- Class markings are clear
- Operating instructions are clear
- Are the extinguishers in good working condition?
- Discharge opening is clear
- It is fully charged
- It has not been damaged or tampered with
- Hydrostatic testing has been done
- Is the pin in place?
- Is the seal intact?
- Is the inspection tag up to date?
4. Are your extinguishers recharged and ready for next time?
Whether a small amount has been accidentally discharged or actively used to fight a small fire, always top up your fire extinguisher so it’s ready for future use.
