General Installation Requirements
Determining the Number of Extinguishers
Determining the minimum number of fire extinguishers is a critical first step. It is influenced by the type of hazard and the floor area. This determination is independent of other fire protection systems, such as sprinklers. Additional extinguishers can be added for enhanced protection, and those with lower ratings can be installed, as long as they don’t compromise the minimum requirements.
Ensuring Extinguisher Readiness
Maintaining extinguishers in a fully charged and operable condition is non-negotiable. These life-saving devices must be kept in designated places at all times when not in use, ensuring immediate accessibility during emergencies.
Strategic Placement
Fire extinguishers should be conspicuously located, easily accessible, and visible along normal paths of travel, including exits. In areas where visibility is obstructed, signs indicating extinguisher locations are required. The installation height of extinguishers is specified based on their weight to ensure ease of use.
Proper Mounting
Portable fire extinguishers, excluding wheeled types, can be installed securely on hangers, in brackets with releasing straps, or in approved cabinets or wall recesses. Wheeled extinguishers must be placed in designated locations, and those exposed to potential damage need protective measures.
Label Visibility and Cabinets
Fire extinguisher labels should face outward for clear visibility. Cabinets housing extinguishers should not be locked, except in cases where misuse is a concern, and emergency access is provided. Cabinets in elevated temperature environments must have screened openings and drains.
Temperature Considerations and Antifreeze
Fire extinguishers should not be exposed to temperatures outside their specified range. Extinguishers containing only water must be protected to temperatures as low as -40°F by adding appropriate antifreeze.
Electronic Monitoring and Alarm Systems
For installations with electronic monitoring systems, continuous supervision of connections and power sources is necessary.
Class-Specific Installation Requirements: Tailoring Protection for Specific Hazards
Class A Hazards:
- Involves ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, or fabric.
- Installation Requirement: Install water or multi-purpose extinguishers rated as class A. For different types of places, you need extinguishers with a certain rating 2-A for light and ordinary hazards (Offices and workshops), 4-A for extra hazards (Industrial plants). Each extinguisher can cover a maximum floor area of 11250 sq ft, and you shouldn’t have to travel more than 75 ft to reach one. Hose stations may replace some extinguishers for added flexibility.
Class B Hazards:
- Concerns flammable liquids or gases.
- Installation Requirement: Use foam or CO2 extinguishers. You should be able to reach an extinguisher within a certain distance, either 30 ft or 50 ft, based on the extinguisher rating and hazard level. Similar to Class A, hose stations may replace some extinguishers.
Class C Hazards:
- Class C-rated extinguishers are essential in environments where energized electrical equipment is present.
- Installation Requirement: Utilize non-conductive agents like CO2. The fire extinguishers must be installed in a manner that addresses the potential Class A or Class B hazards, even though the fire itself is a Class C hazard.
Class D Hazards:
- For combustible metal fires, Class D-rated extinguishers are a necessity. Determining the size of the fire extinguisher depends on the particular kind of metal that can catch fire, how small its particles are, the space it might cover, and what the fire extinguisher manufacturer suggests based on their tests.
- Installation Requirement: They must be located within 75 ft of the hazard, with specific considerations for areas where combustible metal products are generated.
Class K Hazards:
- Class K-rated extinguishers are tailored for fires involving combustible cooking media (vegetable or animal oil and fats).
- Installation Requirement: Their placement should ensure a maximum travel distance of 30 ft. If you have a cooking appliance that uses solid fuel (like wood or charcoal) and has a firebox volume of 5 cubic feet or less, it needs to be equipped with either a 2-A rated water-type fire extinguisher or a 1.6-gallon (6 liters) wet chemical fire extinguisher specifically listed for Class K fires.
The proper installation of fire extinguishers is a multifaceted process. It demands careful consideration of general requirements as well as specific criteria for each hazard class. By adhering to these guidelines, individuals and organizations can significantly enhance their preparedness and ability to respond effectively to diverse fire risks. Remember, fire safety is a shared responsibility, and installing extinguishers thoughtfully contributes to a safer environment for all.
