Fire Extinguisher Selection
It is essential to recognise the different types of fire hazards, as the correct treatment for one can prove disastrously wrong for another. Fire System Services technicians can advise you on which extinguisher is required for your risk areas.
|
Fire Classes |
A |
B |
C |
E |
F |
Special Notes |
|
types of fire |
paper, wood, plastics |
flammable liquids |
flammable gases |
energized electrical equipment |
cooking oils and fats |
|
|
Water |
YES |
NO |
NO |
NO |
NO |
Dangerous if used on flammable liquid, energized electrical equipment and cooking oils and fats. |
|
Foam AFFF |
YES |
YES |
NO |
NO |
LIMITED |
Dangerous if used on energized electrical equipment |
|
Wet Chemical |
YES |
NO |
NO |
NO |
YES |
Dangerous if used on energized electrical equipment |
|
Dry Chemical AB(E) |
YES |
YES |
YES |
YES |
NO |
Look carefully at the extinguisher to determine if it is a B(E) or AB(E) unit as their capabilities are different. |
|
Dry Chemical B(E) |
NO |
YES |
YES |
YES |
LIMITED |
Look carefully at the extinguisher to determine if it is a B(E) or AB(E) unit as their capabilities are different. |
|
Carbon Dioxide |
NO |
LIMITED |
NO |
YES |
LIMITED |
Not suitable for outdoor use. |
|
Vaporising Liquid |
YES |
LIMITED |
NO |
YES |
NO |
Check the characteristics of the specific extinguishant. |
GREEN YES indicates the most suitable fire extinguisher for that class of fire.
LIMITED indicates that the extinguishant is not the agent of choice for that class of fire, but that it may have limited extinguishing capability.
Class D: For Fires involving combustible metals, a special purpose fire extinguisher is required.
ALL FIRE EXTINGUISHERS MUST BE CHARGED AFTER USE.
Click to download the Fire Extinguisher Chart
Halon BCF Fire Extinguishers
The above link will give you an explanation with the requirements for Halon Fire Extinguishers.
To assist you in making an informed choiced please read the following.
***IMPORTANT NOTE***
Fire extinguishers need to be selected & distributed according to the type of fire hzard involved as per Australian Standard 2444. It is important to consider the advantages & disacvantages of each type of extinguishant. The quantity and type of extinguishers will vary according to the class & size of fire hazard, size of premises, etc. This is best left to those who are experienced in the fire industry and we recommend you contact us to obtain an assement of your fire protection requirements.