Fire extinguishers are correctly used to combat fires of different classes. You can determine the fire class by what fuels it, so you will need to assess your environment for potential risks of each fire class.
For instance, if you have a design studio that has a large quantity of paint, it is recommended to have a Class B fire extinguisher. This fire extinguisher can put out a fire fueled by flammable liquid or gas.
Determine the Size and Quantity of the Fire Extinguisher
The quantity and size of the fire extinguishers are determined by the size of your space, level of hazard, and the recommendations of local and national fire codes. You will need the size of the square footage of your office area to purchase the appropriate quantity of fire extinguishers and situate them properly. Incase of any fire emergency gather your employee team together and make a rescue plan.
Choose the Appropriate Type of Office Fire Extinguisher
There are different types of fire extinguishers. As mentioned, each model is designed to put out a specific kind of fire. Some fire extinguishers can fight more than one class of fire. That is why it is essential to know the different types of fires you could potentially face in your office environment.
Generally, there are five main types of fire extinguishers.
· Water-Fire Extinguishers
Water fire extinguishers can put out Class A fires. Class A fires are fueled by simple combustibles such as paper, wood, fabric, trash, and plastics. Offices usually have a lot of Class A sources like papers, recycling bins, wooden furniture, curtains, and carpets.
· Foam Fire Extinguishers
While these fire extinguishers can fight Class A fires, foam fire extinguishers can also fight Class B type of fires. Class B fires are fueled by liquids and gases, like gas and paint. Class B fire sources are typically found in the form of cleaner and furniture polishes in offices.
· Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishers
These fire extinguishers fight Class B and Class C fire sources. Class C fires sources are electrical. Electrical fires are a significant threat in the office since causes can include computers, printers, photocopiers, and electrical heaters.
· Powder Fire Extinguishers
Powder fire extinguishers are versatile. They can combat three classes of fires- Class A, B, and C fires. These fire extinguishers are an ideal choice for an office environment containing risks for all three fire types.
· Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers
These fire extinguishers are fueled by cooking oils and fat. That’s why a wet chemical fire extinguisher is a must. They are also useful in combatting Class A fires as well. You can find these extinguishers in a commercial kitchen where grease fires are most likely to occur.
Fire Safety for Offices
Once you determine the type of fire extinguishers you need, the quantity, and their proper handling, you need to train your employees on how to locate and use fire extinguishers. After all, the fair use of safety equipment can save your office and your people. By having the right fire extinguishers, you can also ensure safety in your building and its occupants. If you need a reliable fire extinguisher Lake Park, you can call Preventive Fire company. They have the perfect fire extinguishers for your office.
