People tend to freak out in the face of fire and grab the nearest fire extinguisher. Generally, in the vain hope that they can put out the blaze. However, use the incorrect fire extinguisher. It may make the blaze even more dangerous by causing it to flash and increasing the risk of serious injuries. Because of this, it is critical to educate workers on the fire safety procedures that should be followed in the workplace.
The most effective way to assist workers in determining which fire extinguisher to use. Is to educate them regarding the classification of fires:
| A | Combustible materials like wood, paper, rubber, and plastic spark Class A fires when ignited. |
| B | Liquids that are combustible and flammable, such as petrol, oil, paint, or solvents, cause fires classified as Class B. |
| C | Gasses that have the potential to combust explosively are class C type fires. An example would be 9kg LPG cylinders, generally used for BBQs. |
| D | Combustible metals cause fires classified as Class D. (magnesium, titanium, sodium, potassium, uranium, lithium, plutonium and calcium). |
| E | Electrically energised components like wiring, fuses, appliances, and motors can all start Class C fires when they contact one another. |
| F | Generally, kitchens are the most common location for igniting Class F fires. Caused by animal and vegetable fats found in cooking oils and greases. Often located in fast food outlets and industrial kitchens. The residential kitchen also has the potential for these fires on a smaller scale. |
The multi-purpose of a dry chemical powder extinguisher
There is a widespread misunderstanding about an ABE fire extinguisher. It is also known as a multi-purpose Dry Chemical or powder fire extinguisher, and it can extinguish any fire. This type of fire extinguisher is frequently selected as the primary extinguisher in places of business due to its versatility. The dry chemical only affects class A, B, or E fires. It is possible for a reaction to occur and an explosion to occur. If a dry powder fire extinguisher is used on a fire involving combustible metals (class D – chemicals).
The three types of fire extinguishers are used. Most frequently are the multi-purpose (dry chemical), CO2 (carbon dioxide), and air-pressurized water fire extinguishers.
The dry chemical serves multiple purposes and quells the chemical reaction during a fire. Since it can effectively put out fires of all three classes, this particular extinguisher is the most common type. These fire extinguishers come in various sizes and can be discovered in many different settings. They are red with a white band in Australia (office hallways, break rooms, vehicles). Because the distance between an extinguisher and a hazard should be less than 10 metres. A building will typically have more than one multi-purpose extinguisher located throughout the structure.
Reignition can be a substantial hazard!
Extinguishers that use carbon dioxide (also known as dry chemicals) can be identified by their large hand horns (the pressure gauge is also missing). Because the fire can reignite after the CO2 has dissipated. This type of extinguisher works well in classes B, C & E because it replaces the oxygen in the fire with carbon dioxide. However, it’s not recommended occupants use them in fires of class A, as there is a real chance of reignition. It is most frequently found in computer server rooms. And there should not be more than 6 metres of distance between the danger and the fire extinguisher.
Identification by using bands
Extinguishers that use air-pressurized water (AW) are easily identifiable by their large red containers (no band). Occasionally, a foaming agent is added to some extinguishers, and a blue band is added. These work to remove some heat from the fuel. The foam blocks the oxygen and vapour from mixing, thus reducing the chance of a combustible mixture. Extinguishing fires classified as class A is best done with a device of this kind. Because water is a conductor, using a fire extinguisher based on the water.
They can be very dangerous if used on a fire involving flammable liquids (class B) or electrical fires (class E). It’s never a good idea because the water will cause the fire to spread rather than put it out. It is recommended that the travel distance to the hazard be less than 20 metres.
The dry and wet chemical extinguisher is designed for class F fires. The dry powder extinguisher is designed for class ABE fires. Are the extinguishers used to put out the other two classes of fires? Dry and wet chemical extinguishers can frequently be discovered in eateries, cafeterias, kitchens, and other establishments devoted to food preparation. A distance of no more than 6 metres be maintained between the danger and an extinguisher of class F. Extinguishers that use dry powder are frequently seen in manufacturing and industrial settings. These fire extinguishers should not be more than 25 metres (75 feet) away from the potential threat.
Remember to call Triple 000 if emergency services are required.
It is essential to formulate a strategy to prevent fires if you do not already have one in place. It’s possible that outline the procedures to implement in the event of a fire, such as calling 000. Which could be the deciding factor between a small fire contained through intervention and a disaster. In addition to this, it is essential to correct any widespread misunderstandings that employees may have.
This will bring the importance of training requirements to the forefront and contribute to the further development of evacuation plans. It is essential to add portable fire extinguishers to inspected items every month. To confirm that they have been charged and are in good working condition. Also, clear of any obstructions and have not been tampered with or damaged.
Employees who have received training in human factors will be equipped with various skills. These will assist them in responding appropriately to an emergency such as a fire. They will, in particular, be able to keep their feelings of urgency and frustration under control. Remaining calm and clear thinking is the key to successful operations. Workers who are trained to deal with human factors are ultimately more likely to use the appropriate type of fire extinguisher for the developing situation.
