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Fire Extinguishers
Facilities Buyer sells the following fire extinguishers for commercial and domestic use in the UK.
| Type |
Old Code |
BS EN 3 Colour Code |
Fire Class |
Water |
Signal Red |
Signal Red |
A |
Foam |
Cream |
Signal Red with a cream panel above the operating Instructions |
A B |
Dry Powder |
French Blue |
Red with a Blue panel above the operating instructions |
A, B, C |
Carbon Dioxide |
Black |
Red with a Black panel above the operating instructions |
A (Limited), B |
- Class A fires - are fires involving organic solids like paper, wood, etc
- Class B fires - are fires involving flammable Liquids.
- Class C fires - are fires involving flammable Gasses
Commercial organisations need to conduct a survey to ascertain the number and type of fire extinguishers that are required on their premises. As a rule of thumb, one 9-litre water extinguisher is needed for every 200 sq metres of floor space, with a minimum of two extinguishers. Special risks other than Class "A" must be considered separately.
Fire extinguishers are normally sited on escape routes, near to doors leading to a place of safety and adjacent to specific risks. They should be positioned in similar locations on all floors, and grouped together with other equipment in “fire points” so that equipment can be reached easily in case of emergency.
It is important to position them where they are easily seen. Fixing them inside cupboards or behind doors will only waste valuable time if a fire breaks out. Do not place them over cookers or heaters or in places of extreme temperatures hot or cold.
The additional following factors should also be considered when considering fire extinguishers.
- Extinguishers should be fixed at an elevated height so that the carrying handle is, 1m from the floor for heavier units and 1.5m for smaller units.
- For special risks, position extinguishers adjacent to the risk but not too close to prevent use in the event of fire occurring.
- Place them near to the door, in shallow recesses, and away from extremes of temperature.
- Ensure a maximum 30m traveling distance from a fire to an extinguisher.
- The method of operation should be similar for all extinguishers, where possible.
- The occupiers need to be capable of handling all the types and sizes recommended.
- Where different types of extinguishers for different risk types are sited together they must be properly labeled to prevent confusion.
- Extinguishers should be fitted with suitable jet or spray nozzles or flexible hoses to suit the risk involved.
Additional References can be found in BS 5306 Part 8.
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