Fire extinguisher use
A fire is the most common type of emergency for which small businesses must plan. A critical decision when planning is whether or not employees should fight a small fire with a portable fire extinguisher or simply evacuate. Small fires can often be put out quickly by a well-trained employee with a portable fire extinguisher. However, to do this safely, the employee must understand the use and limitation of a portable fire extinguisher and the hazards associated with fighting fires. Evacuation plans that designate or require some or all of the employees to fight fires with portable fire extinguishers increase the level of complexity of the plan and the level of training that must be provided employees.
Types of extinguishers
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has classified five general types of fires, based on the combustible materials involved and the kind of extinguisher needed to put them out. The five fire classifications are A, B, C, D, and K. The five are as follows:
Class A. This type of fire is the most common. The combustible materials are wood, cloth, paper, rubber, and plastic. The common extinguishing agent is water, but dry chemicals are also effective.
Class B. Flammable liquids, gases, and greases create class B fires. The most common extinguisher to use is dry chemical. Also, foam and carbon dioxide extinguishers can be used.
Class C. Because class C fires are electrical fires, use a nonconducting agent to put them out, for example, carbon dioxide and dry chemical extinguishers. Never use foam or water-type extinguishers on these fires.
Class D. Fires arising from combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium, and sodium are categorized as class D fires. These fires require specialized techniques to extinguish them. None of the common extinguishers should be used. Use dry powder extinguishers specific for the metal hazard present on these fires.
Class K. Fires resulting from the combustion of cooking oils and fats are class K fires. Commercial kitchens usually have special extinguishers for class K fires.
Multi-purpose extinguishers (ABC) will handle all A, B, and C fires.
Be sure to read the label.
Did you know?
| If employees use portable fire extinguishers, they must be selected and positioned based on the potential type and size of fire that can occur. | |
|---|---|
| Class | Distance to extinguisher |
| Class A | 75 feet or less |
| Class B | 50 feet or less |
| Class C | Based on appropriate pattern for existing Class A or B hazards |
| Class D | 75 feet or less |
| Class K | 30 feet or less |
Note: State and local fire codes may have more stringent requirements. Always check those.