However, fire safety signage does not just relate to fire extinguishers and must be installed throughout the premises (fire door, evacuation routes and assembly point signs). Fire extinguisher ID signs are required by law and display the type of fire extinguisher and which classes of fire they are suitable for. This is why fire extinguisher signs are so important they provide clear instruction and help save lives. In the event of an emergency, fire extinguishers must be easily identified to ensure their correct use. There are unique fire extinguisher colours on each label for quick identification, demonstrating which classes of fire they can be used on. While you now understand the different classes of fire, the crucial question remains: which fire extinguisher should I use for each class of fire? Naturally, commercial kitchens and restaurants are at greater risk of Class F fires. These are particularly dangerous if tackled using the wrong extinguisher as any water-based solution will mix and spread the flames across a larger surface. Lastly, a Class F fire involves cooking oils and fats. Given the wide-spread use of electricity, all businesses are at risk of this class of fire. While many premises are not at risk of this class of fire, Class D fires - those involving burning metals - pose a very real risk to manufacturing businesses as only very specific and limited types of extinguisher can be used.Įlectrical fires are caused by faulty equipment, exposed wires or the introduction of water or another conductive to a live current. These are extremely dangerous as they can cause explosions and pose a great risk to environments such as factories. These are one of most common types of fire as all businesses either store or are furnished with such materials.Ī less common but equally dangerous class of fire, Class B fires involve flammable liquids like spirits and petrol and are more common in garages, restaurants and factories.Ī Class C fire is a fire involving flammable gases. Here, we go through each class of fire in detail.Ī Class A fire involves carbonaceous materials such as wood, paper and textiles. Using the wrong type of extinguisher for the class of fire could quickly put more lives at risk and damage the property beyond repair. The class of a fire relates to a fire’s fuel source, and it is absolutely crucial that you understand the differences to avoid making a fire worse. To learn more about the different types of fire safety signage, read our guide to fire safety signs now. As a result, they would install an electrical fire extinguisher with appropriate signage, and ensure the electrical equipment has been inspected for damage and recently serviced. One of the most important functions of the responsible person is to carry out a risk assessment, highlighting potential fire risks before implementing (and recording) steps to minimise or remove their likelihood or impact.įor example, upon conducting a fire risk assessment, a construction site’s responsible person might identify the proximity of storage materials and essential pieces of electrical equipment as a fire risk. This should be the business owner or site manager. The RRFSO is particularly important as it outlines the need for businesses to appoint a ‘responsible person’ to oversee and take responsibility for fire safety. Not only must they be highly visible, but they must direct and inform employees, guests and/or residents of the appropriate actions to take in the event of a fire. The BS 5306 also highlights the importance of fire safety signs and their placement throughout your business. In addition, extinguishers should be inspected for signs of tampering or discharge every month, while being annually serviced to ensure they are in working order. These include essential practises for your business.įor example, all businesses are required to keep at least two water fire extinguishers onsite, as these are the safest to use, and can tackle the most common type of fire. However, the two that are frequently referred to are the British Standards (BS 5306) and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order (RRFSO). There are several pieces of legislation relating to fire extinguishers on your premises. Here, we offer a comprehensive guide to fire extinguishers, including important information about regulations, the various classes of fire your business may be at risk of, and everything you need to know about each type of fire extinguisher. In addition to this, adequate safety signage is required to ensure occupants know which fire extinguisher to use. Your business’ environment will be at risk of certain classes of fire, which must dictate the fire extinguisher types you keep on premises. Whatever industry you’re in, understanding the different types of fire extinguisher is essential to protecting lives and complying with legislation.
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