Hand-held portable fire extinguishers play a crucial role in fire prevention and control. When fires are detected early, they can be effectively extinguished using the appropriate extinguishing agents. This article explores the vital factors to consider when selecting fire extinguishers, the classification of fires, potential dangers and limitations, proper distribution and siting of extinguishers, and practical guidelines for safely extinguishing fires
Factors Affecting Extinguisher Selection
Choosing the right fire extinguisher is essential for effectively combating fires. Several factors must be considered during pre-planning:
- Type of Combustible Material : Different extinguishers are suitable for specific types of fires. While some may work on multiple combustible materials, their effectiveness might be limited on certain substances. Consulting a registered fire technician can provide valuable insights into selecting the most appropriate extinguishing agent.
- Possible Size of Fire: Some extinguishers are effective on contained flammable liquid fires, but they may not be sufficient if the spillage covers a large area. Understanding the potential fire size is crucial in selecting the right extinguisher.
- Environment: Extreme temperatures or excessive vibration can negatively impact certain types of extinguishers. Considering the operating environment ensures the extinguishers remain fully functional when needed.
- Maintenance Requirements: In remote areas, servicing or recharging extinguishers might take longer. Additional extinguishers should be considered to ensure continuous protection during maintenance periods.
- Standardisation: Standardising extinguishers that operate similarly, even with different contents, has advantages in staff training and emergency response.
- Risk Assessment: Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify potential fire hazards in the premises. This assessment should consider the nature of activities, storage of materials, and any special fire risks specific to the location.
- Multiple Hazards: In some environments, there may be multiple types of fire hazards present. Consider the possibility of mixed fire risks and select extinguishers that can handle various types of fires if needed.
- User Training: Ensure that personnel who may need to use the fire extinguishers receive proper training. The knowledge of the correct extinguisher to use and the proper extinguishing technique is essential for effective fire suppression.
Classification of Fires
Fires are classified based on the combustible materials involved. The SABS code 0105 groups fires into different classes:
Class A: Fires involving ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper, and cloth.
Class B: Fires fuelled by flammable liquids such as gasoline and oil.
Class C: Fires caused by energised electrical equipment.
Class D: Fires involving combustible metals like magnesium and titanium.
Class K: Fires in cooking appliances, commonly found in commercial kitchens.
This classification system helps to identify the most suitable extinguishing agents for each incident type.
Dangers and Limitations of Extinguishers
Using the wrong extinguisher for a specific class of fire can be dangerous and ineffective. Understanding the limitations of each extinguisher type is crucial for safe fire suppression.
Extinguisher Shelf Life : Take note of the expiration dates and shelf life of fire extinguishers. Over time, extinguishing agents may lose their effectiveness, making it crucial to replace or recharge extinguishers accordingly.
Maintenance Checks : Establish a routine maintenance schedule to inspect and service fire extinguishers. Regular maintenance ensures that the extinguishers are in optimal working condition and ready for immediate use in case of a fire emergency.
Distribution and Siting of Extinguishers
The strategic placement of fire extinguishers is critical for quick access and efficient fire response. Factors such as the level of risk, floor area, and practical considerations should be taken into account. Guidelines for proper distribution and siting include:
- Accessibility and Clear Markings: Extinguishers should be easily accessible and clearly marked for identification during emergencies.
- Optimal Spacing: Extinguishers should not be more than 46m apart to ensure adequate coverage of the premises.
- Outdoor Extinguishers: Extinguishers located outdoors should be in cabinets with visible operating instructions for easy removal.
- Symbolic Signage: Clearly marked signs indicating the location and type of fire-fighting equipment should be prominently displayed.
- High-Risk Areas: Identify high-risk areas where fires are more likely to occur and install additional extinguishers in these locations. Examples include kitchens, areas with flammable liquids, and workshops with potential ignition sources.
- Obstruction-Free Access: Ensure that extinguishers are easily accessible at all times. Avoid placing them behind obstacles, furniture, or in areas where access might be hindered during an emergency.
- Mounting: Extinguishers should be mounted on brackets, with their handles no higher than 1.5m above the floor to avoid obstruction and prevent accidental knocking over.
Guidelines for Safely Extinguishing Fires
While attempting to extinguish fires, personal safety should always be the top priority. Some practical guidelines for safe fire suppression include:
- Ensure Backup Assistance: Before attempting to tackle a fire, ensure backup assistance is available, and it’s preferable to work in pairs.
- Assess Escape Routes: Always have a clear escape route before engaging in fire extinguishing efforts.
- Follow Extinguisher Instructions: Adhere to the instructions on the extinguisher label when activating the unit.
- Don’t Risk It: If the fire is too large or begins to spread uncontrollably, evacuate the area immediately.
- Proper Application: Apply the extinguisher medium at the base of the flames using a rapid side-to-side action to drive the fire away from you.
- Windward Approach: When dealing with outdoor fires, approach from the windward side to prevent smoke and flames from blowing towards you.
- Crouching Attitude: Adopt a crouching attitude when approaching the fire to minimize exposure to heat and smoke.
- No Tilting or Inverting: Never tilt or invert an extinguisher during operation unless it is specifically designed as a turn-over type.
- Communication: If tackling a fire in a public or shared space, communicate the fire incident to others nearby and alert them to evacuate the area.
- P.A.S.S Technique: Teach users the P.A.S.S (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) technique for using fire extinguishers effectively. This mnemonic provides a simple yet effective way to remember the steps in extinguishing a fire.
Hand-held portable fire extinguishers are vital tools in fire safety, allowing individuals to control small fires effectively. By considering factors like the type of combustible material, potential fire size, and environmental conditions, and following proper guidelines for distribution and safe extinguishing, fire incidents can be efficiently managed. However, it’s crucial to prioritise personal safety and evacuate the area if a fire becomes uncontrollable.
When managing a property as a landlord or a trustee, it is crucial to get safety protocols right. A good property manager like Wakefields Property Management can assist you with great advice and with overseeing the follow-through of routine safety checks. Contact Wakefields Property Management today to learn how they can help you to manage your property.
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