It is important to have a fire extinguisher at the workplace. That is because it is critical to the safety of customers and employees. Before choosing a fire extinguisher, you need to understand the various types available and other crucial things associated with them. In this way, you can find an extinguisher that is suitable for your operations.

Types of Fire

Fires are categorized based on the materials that fuel them. They are classified into classes. You need to understand the classes to ensure you make the right buying decision when buying an extinguisher. Class A fires are fueled by organic materials, such as cloth, paper, plastic, rubber, and wood. These fires are common in homes and offices. Class B fires are fueled by flammable liquids, such as petrol, oil-based paints, alcohol, and flammable gases. These fires are common in bars, chemistry labs, and gas stations.

Class C fires involve electrical equipment. They are caused by overloaded electrical wires and circuiting machinery. These fires occur in server rooms or areas with a lot of electrical equipment. Class K fires occur in restaurants and kitchens. They are fueled by vegetable oils and cooking fats.

Types of Fire Extinguishers

The fire extinguishers are designed to extinguish different classes of fire. Thus, there is a need for you to use the right one. For instance, you need a different extinguisher for a library fire as opposed to a kitchen fire.

ABC fire extinguishers are meant to put off the A, B, and C classes of fire. They are commonly found in office buildings, schools, and homes. They contain ammonium phosphate. Once they are used, cleaning is necessary to remove the chemical from the surfaces.

There are also carbon dioxide fire extinguishers. These are meant to put off fires caused by electricity. They work by displacing oxygen. Hence, they suffocate the fire. However, you should not use these types of fire extinguishers in confined areas. Class K fire extinguishers are used to put off fires fueled by cooking fats and oils. You will find these in commercial kitchens. They contain Potassium Citrate and Potassium Acetate that prevent oils from splashing.

Water-based fire extinguishers are designed to extinguish class A fires. Since they do not contain chemicals, these extinguishers can be used in hospitals, schools, and libraries. There are also water mist extinguishers that can put off both Class A and C fires.…