Fire Extinguishers in the Workplace

It is essential that you have the correct fire extinguishers in your workplace, that are in the correct locations and that employees are trained to use them in the event of a fire occurring.

Understanding the different types of fire extinguishers:

There are different types of fire extinguishers that are available to extinguish a fire depending on the different types of fuel that started the fire.

There are 5 main types of fire extinguishers, and there are different types of both Water and Dry Powder extinguishers meaning there are 8 fire extinguishers in total to choose from:

The different types of extinguishers are:

• Water
• Water Mist
• Water Spray
• Foam
• Dry Powder – Standard
• Dry Powder – Specialist
• C02 – Carbon Dioxide
• Wet Chemical

Different classes of fire:

In total, there are six classes of fire:

• Class A – Combustible fires which are caused by materials such as wood, paper, cardboard and fabric.
• Class B – Flammable liquid fires such as petrol, diesel and oil.
• Class C – Flammable gases fires such as natural gas, methane or propane.
• Class D – Combustible metals fires such as sodium, potassium or lithium.
• Electrical – Electrical fires such as from faulty electrical equipment.
• Class F – Cooking oil fires such as from deep fat fryers.

Ensuring you use the correct extinguisher for each class of fire is essential.  The below table shows the 5 main types of fire extinguisher and their uses.  The table also states the different colour codes for each fire extinguisher.

Fire extinguisher training

Having as many employees trained in the use of fire extinguishers is essential, as this will reduce the likelihood of a fire spreading to other areas of the workplace.

At HPC, we deliver fire marshal awareness training (which includes training on how to use fire extinguishers), and we deliver a stand-alone fire extinguisher awareness course for those employees who aren’t being trained as fire marshals.

Our fire extinguisher awareness course covers the basic components of fire, different classes of fire, selecting and using the correct extinguisher, actions to take prior to using a fire extinguisher and how to use the different types of fire extinguisher.

Fire Safety Services at HPC

Here at HPC, we offer fire safety services that can support you by ensuring you are fully compliant with fire safety laws.  Currently, we are delivering the following fire safety services:

• Fire Risk Assessments
• Fire Marshal Awareness Training
• Fire Safety Awareness Training
• Fire Alarm Maintenance
• Emergency Lighting Maintenance
• Fire Door Inspections

To find out more information on your fire safety needs or for a free quote for our maintenance services, please get in contact with our team of experts.

T: 0330 107 1037

E: contact@hpc.uk.com

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