TVF (UK) Limited Highlights The Different Types Of Fire Extinguishers And Their Key Features

TVF (UK) Limited explains the importance to know the difference between the varied types and classes of fire extinguishers.

There are two main reasons why fire extinguishers are so important: They Save Lives - The first is to help save lives in an emergency, since having the appropriate fire extinguisher on-hand could mean stopping a fire before it has a chance to spread, and the Legal Obligations - The second reason is that it’s a legal obligation for commercial premises to have properly sited and maintained fire extinguishers – as set out by The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which states that the responsible person must ensure the premises are, to the extent that it is appropriate, equipped with appropriate fire-fighting equipment.

Fire extinguishers in building safety

In this article, they run through the different extinguisher types, the classes of fire extinguishers within those types

How many extinguishers are required for a premise and where they should be placed in the building is something a professional fire safety company can help with, however, it is important to be familiar with the different types of extinguishers.

TVF (UK) Limited is a specialist in fire protection. For those requiring new fire extinguishers for their business or needing current extinguishers’ servicing, the organization is there to help. In this article, they run through the different extinguisher types, the classes of fire extinguishers within those types, what they can be used on, and which setting they’re best for.

Different types of fire extinguishers

The different types of fire extinguishers include Dry Powder, Foam, CO2, Wet Chemicals, and Water. They also have sub-categories – Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, Electrical, and Class F.

• Dry Powder

Dry Powder based fire extinguishers can be used in the case of fires triggered by organic solids, liquids, such as paint and oil, and gas fires. These extinguishers should not be used for chip pan fires or where deeper penetrating coverage is needed. It is also recommended to not use this in small, confined spaces, as powder inhalation is dangerous.

A dry powder extinguisher can be operated in a sweeping motion while directing the powder down at the base of the flames. Dry powder extinguishers come in various classes – Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, and Electrical. They are widely used in auto centers, boiler rooms, gas manufacturing, and welding areas.

• Foam

Foam based fire extinguishers can be used in the case of fires triggered by solids and liquids, such as paint, petrol and spirits. These extinguishers should not be used for cooking oil/fat fires. A dry powder extinguisher can be used for solids on fire, point the extinguisher at the base of the flames, for liquids on fire, direct the foam at the edges to build up and cover the liquid.

Foam extinguishers come in Class A and Class B types. They are highly suited for use in retail spaces, offices, hospitals and apartment blocks.

• CO2

CO2 based fire extinguishers should be used in the case of fire triggered in electrical equipment which is live

CO2-based fire extinguishers should be used in the case of fire triggered in electrical equipment which is live, as well as server banks. These extinguishers should not be used for chip pan fires and fat fires.

While using CO2-based fire extinguishers ensure to use the frost-free horn, to avoid freezing hands and avoid use in confined spaces, as CO2 accumulation can lead to asphyxiation. Ensure the fire is fully out as CO2 is not a coolant for fires. Sweep the horn at the base of the flames.

CO2 based extinguishers come in Class B and Electrical types. They are suited for use in office spaces, IT centers and server rooms.

• Wet Chemical

Wet Chemical-based fire extinguishers should be used in the case of cooking fires, involving oils and fats. It is highly recommended to not use standard wet chemical extinguishers on petrol fires.

These extinguishers can be used in cooking environments, such as kitchens, restaurants, and canteens.

• Water

Water-based fire extinguishers should be used in the case of fires, involving organic materials, such as wood, paper, coal, and textiles. These extinguishers should not be used on electrical appliances or cooking oil/fat fires.

Water-based fire extinguishers come in Class A type. When using this extinguisher, point and spray the flames at their base, moving across until extinguished. They are the preferred extinguishers for use in schools, offices, retail spaces and hospitals.