24 Mar Portable Fire Extinguishers

Portable Fire Extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers can help control a small, incipient-stage fire, but only when employees are trained, the correct extinguisher is available, and conditions allow it to be used safely. Your first priorities during a fire are to sound the alarm, follow the Emergency Action Plan, and ensure people can evacuate safely.

Never attempt to fight a fire that is spreading rapidly, producing heavy smoke, or could block your escape route.

Guide for Discussion

Inspection and Accessibility

Fire extinguishers must be properly maintained and readily accessible.

• Know the location of extinguishers in your work area.
• Keep access to extinguishers clear at all times.
• Never store materials, tools, or equipment in front of an extinguisher.
• Make sure extinguishers are clearly identified and properly mounted.
• Visually inspect portable extinguishers monthly.
• Check that the extinguisher is fully charged and ready for use.
• Look for damaged hoses, missing pins or seals, corrosion, leakage, or other obvious damage.
• Report damaged, discharged, or missing extinguishers immediately.
• Portable extinguishers must receive the required annual maintenance inspection.

Know the Fire Classes

Use an extinguisher rated for the type of material that is burning:

• Class A – Ordinary Combustibles: Wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and many plastics.
• Class B – Flammable Liquids: Gasoline, oils, solvents, paints, and other flammable liquids.
• Class C – Energized Electrical Equipment: Wiring, electrical panels, motors, tools, and other energized equipment.
• Class D – Combustible Metals: Materials such as magnesium, titanium, sodium, and certain other combustible metals. Specialized extinguishing agents are required.
• Class K – Cooking Oils and Fats: Primarily associated with commercial cooking equipment. Specialized wet-chemical extinguishers are typically used.

Many workplaces have multipurpose ABC dry-chemical extinguishers, but always verify the extinguisher’s rating before attempting to use it.

Never use water on energized electrical equipment or a flammable-liquid fire.

Using a Fire Extinguisher – PASS

If you have been trained and company procedures authorize employees to use portable fire extinguishers, remember PASS:

P – Pull the pin.
A – Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
S – Squeeze the operating handle.
S – Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire.

Maintain a clear escape route behind you while using the extinguisher.

Know When to Evacuate

Do not attempt to fight a fire if:

• You have not been trained or authorized to use an extinguisher.
• You do not know what is burning.
• You do not have the correct type of extinguisher.
• The fire is spreading beyond its initial stage.
• Smoke, heat, or fumes make conditions unsafe.
• Hazardous materials, compressed gas cylinders, or other serious hazards are involved.
• Your escape route could become blocked.

If there is any doubt about your ability to control the fire safely, evacuate and allow trained emergency responders to handle it.

Remember

A portable fire extinguisher is intended for a small, controllable fire—not a substitute for evacuation or the fire department. Know where extinguishers are located, know which type to use, and never put yourself in danger trying to save equipment or property.