Understanding Fire Extinguishers Types Classes and Usage Chart
- Fire Products Direct
- 19 hours ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 4 hours ago
A Comprehensive Guide to Fire Extinguishers, Types, Classes, and Their Effective Usage
There are 5 main types of fire extinguishers in Australia, and choosing the right kind of fire extinguisher can be a confusing task because of the many fire extinguishers available on the market today. Understanding the specific characteristics and intended uses of each type is crucial for effective fire safety management. You should be very mindful when choosing a fire extinguisher because each type is intended to put out a fire caused by different materials, and using the wrong type can exacerbate the situation or even pose additional risks.
To navigate this complexity, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the different classes of fire extinguishers, which are categorised based on the type of fire they are designed to combat.
They are also called Air Pressurised Water or APW fire extinguishers. These are only suitable for Class A fires, and must not be used for ones that involve electricity. They are not to be used for Class D fires or any other fires that include combustible liquid or gas.
These can be used for Class A and Class B fires and would work well in quelling such incidents. They are not to be used for Class D fires as they still employ the use of water. However, they are a lot safer than water extinguishers if you accidentally use them on Class D fires.
They are considered to be very versatile among the others. They can work for Class A, Class B, and Class C fires. It has two types, the BE, which has sodium bicarbonate and the ABE, with monoammonium phosphate. The use of this fire extinguisher should entail cleaning the residue afterwards, as they have very corrosive properties.
Of all the fire extinguisher types, this one is ideal for Class E fires, which normally involve burning electrical appliances. It can also be used on Class B fire,s but it might not fully kill the fire afterwards.
A fire extinguisher comes in handy whenever an unexpected fire springs up. While one may find that all of them look the same, knowing the different fire extinguisher types would help one in identifying which to use on certain occasions.
Fire Classes
Knowing the type of material that is burning would help classify which of the fire extinguisher types would be appropriate to use. Class A objects would include solid materials such as paper, wood, and most plastics. Class B would have combustible and flammable liquids such as petrol, gasoline oil, and kerosene, among others. Combustible gases that are issued, such as methane, butane, and propane, would fall in Class C. Fires that involve metals are part of the Class D category. Those that were caused by electrical appliances, faulty wiring, circuit breakers, as well as outlets are of the Class E type. Cooking oil and fat, as well as other kitchen cooking materials, which are of the greasy kind, would be found under the Class F category.
Class A fires – combustible materials: caused by flammable solids, such as wood, paper, and fabric
Class B fires – flammable liquids: such as petrol, turpentine or paint
Class C fires – flammable gases: like LPG, hydrogen, butane or methane
Class D fires – combustible metals: chemicals such as magnesium, aluminium or potassium
Class E fires – electrical equipment: once the electrical item is removed, the fire changes class
Class F fires – cooking oils: typically a chip pan fire
Fire Extinguishers Chart
Choosing and Maintaining the Right Fire Extinguisher for Effective Fire Safety
In addition to understanding the different classes, it is also important to consider the size and rating of the fire extinguisher. Extinguishers come in various capacities, typically measured in litres or kilograms, and are rated based on their effectiveness in combating specific types of fires. For instance, a higher rating indicates a greater ability to extinguish larger fires. It is advisable to select extinguishers that are appropriate for the specific hazards present in your environment, whether it be at home, in a workplace, or in a public space.
Furthermore, regular maintenance and inspection of fire extinguishers are vital for ensuring they function properly when needed. This includes checking the pressure gauge, ensuring the nozzle is unobstructed, and confirming that the extinguisher is within its service date. Proper training on how to use a fire extinguisher effectively is also crucial. The acronym PASS is commonly used to remember the steps: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side.
In conclusion, selecting the right fire extinguisher is not just about compliance with regulations; it is a critical aspect of fire safety that can save lives and property. By understanding the various types and classes of extinguishers available, as well as their specific applications and maintenance requirements, individuals and businesses can better prepare themselves to respond effectively in the event of a fire emergency.
What are the 5 types of fire extinguishers in Australia?
There are 5 main types of fire extinguishers in Australia - Dry Chemical Powder, CO2 Carbon Dioxide, Wet Chemical, Foam and Water Fire Extinguishers.
What is ABE fire extinguisher?
Which extinguisher is used for electrical fire?
Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers used for?
Dry powder fire extinguisher used for?
This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. It is not customised for any individual's specific situation. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalised guidance.
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