Fire safety is a critical aspect of protecting lives and property. One of the most essential tools in fire prevention and control is the fire extinguisher. However, not all fire extinguishers are created equal, and understanding the different types and their applications is crucial.
Types of Fire Extinguishers
Water Extinguishers
Water extinguishers contain water under pressure and are primarily used for Class A fires, which involve ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and textiles. These extinguishers are not suitable for electrical fires, flammable liquids, or metals.
Foam Extinguishers
Foam extinguishers discharge a foam solution that blankets the fire, cutting off the oxygen supply. They are effective for Class A and B fires, making them suitable for use on flammable liquids like gasoline and oil. However, they should not be used on electrical fires or flammable metals.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguishers
CO2 extinguishers release CO2 gas to suffocate the fire, making them ideal for Class B and C fires involving flammable liquids and electrical equipment. They are not recommended for Class A fires or flammable metals.
Dry Powder Extinguishers
Dry powder extinguishers use a powder that smothers the fire, making them versatile for Class A, B, C, and D fires. They can handle ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, gases, and metals. However, they are not suitable for kitchen fires (Class F).
Wet Chemical Extinguishers
Wet chemical extinguishers contain a chemical solution that reacts with cooking oils to form a soap-like substance, effectively extinguishing Class F fires. They are not suitable for electrical fires or flammable metals.
Specialised Extinguishers
Specialised extinguishers are designed for specific types of fires, such as those involving flammable metals (Class D). These extinguishers are not for general use and should be used only for their intended fire class.
Identifying Fire Classes
Understanding the fire classification system is crucial for choosing the right extinguisher. The classes are as follows:
- Class A: Ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and textiles
- Class B: Flammable liquids like gasoline and oil
- Class C: Flammable gases
- Class D: Flammable metals
- Class E: Electrical fires (if applicable in some regions)
- Class F: Cooking oils and fats
Assessing Your Fire Risk
Conducting a fire risk assessment is essential for identifying potential fire hazards in different environments. This involves examining your premises, understanding local regulations and fire codes, and determining the most likely fire scenarios.
Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher
For Residential Properties
Common hazards in residential properties include kitchen fires, electrical fires, and ordinary combustibles. For these areas, multipurpose dry powder extinguishers and wet chemical extinguishers for kitchens are recommended.
For Commercial Properties
Commercial properties often face hazards such as office equipment, electrical systems, and flammable liquids. CO2 extinguishers, foam extinguishers, and dry powder extinguishers are suitable for these environments.
For Industrial Properties
Industrial properties may encounter flammable liquids, gases, electrical equipment, and metals. Dry powder extinguishers, CO2 extinguishers, and specialised extinguishers for specific hazards are recommended.
Where should fire extinguishers be installed?
If the fire extinguisher is not correctly located you will not get your Fire Safety Certificate signed!
The fire extinguishers location requirements according to AS2444 instruct that the installation should be at least 10 centimetres off of the floor, and the top of the extinguisher should be no more than 1.2 metres above the floor. This keeps the extinguisher relatively safe from bumping with cleaning equipment or other items while also keeping the device easily reachable.
There are no simple rules to follow regarding the perfect location of fire extinguishers because each building is different, both in its layout, and fire risks.
Fire Extinguisher Testing and Maintenance
Regular servicing of fire extinguishers is not only a legal requirement in many jurisdictions but also a responsibility that should be taken seriously to maintain a safe living environment.
One of the key reasons to keep fire extinguishers serviced is to ensure their functionality and reliability. Over time, fire extinguishers may experience wear and tear, leading to potential malfunctions or decreased effectiveness. Regular servicing involves thorough inspections, testing, and maintenance of each extinguisher to identify any issues and rectify them promptly. This ensures that the extinguishers are in proper working condition when needed, reducing the risk of failure during emergencies.
The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) emphasises the importance of fire safety in buildings. According to QBCC regulations, fire safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, must be maintained in a functional state to comply with safety standards. Neglecting fire extinguisher maintenance can result in non-compliance with these regulations, which may lead to penalties and compromised safety.
How often should fire extinguisher maintenance be done?
According to the AS1851, fire extinguisher test, maintenance, and refill services should be done:
– All portable and wheeled fire extinguishers should be tested every 6 months
– Pressure testing and refills should be done at least once every 5 years unless they are Foam filled types, which require the foam to be replaced annually.
Safety and Fire Experts carry out inspections and maintenance while keeping state and national regulations in mind. Once the testing has been carried out, a service tag and certification will be provided as proof of compliance.
