The Author: Sherifudeen Olasheni Carew is the Managing Director of PureConsult Ltd, UK. & Nigeria and a member of the Executive Council of Badagry Chamber of Commerce Industry Mines and Agriculture (BACCIMA).
Fire extinguisher is one of the most important safety equipment that must be placed strategically throughout the workplace. It is used to put out small fires before they spread and cause serious damage to property and life.
Fire extinguishers can also save lives by reducing the risk of injuries or fatalities from fire hazards.
According to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, every workplace must have appropriate fire-fighting equipment, including fire extinguishers, and conduct a fire risk assessment to identify the potential sources of fire and the best ways to prevent or control them.
Here are some of the reasons why fire extinguishers are important in the workplace:
Fire extinguishers can help to prevent small fires from becoming large fires. When a fire is small, it can be easily extinguished with a fire extinguisher. However, if the fire is allowed to spread, it can quickly become too large to control and may cause significant damage.
Fire extinguishers can help to protect people from harm. If a fire breaks out in the workplace, fire extinguishers can be used to evacuate people safely. They can also be used to protect people from being burned if they are trapped in a fire.
Fire extinguishers can help to protect property from damage. A fire can quickly destroy property, including buildings, equipment, and inventory. Fire extinguishers can help to minimize the damage caused by a fire.
There are different types of fire extinguishers available, each of which is designed to extinguish different types of fires. It is important to choose the right type of fire extinguisher for the workplace and to train employees on how to use it properly.
Here are some tips for using a fire extinguisher:
· Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
· Squeeze the handle to discharge the extinguisher.
· Sweep the nozzle from side to side to cover the entire fire.
· Continue to discharge the extinguisher until the fire is out.
Fire extinguishers are an important part of any workplace safety plan. By having fire extinguishers available and training employees on how to use them, businesses can help to protect their employees, property, and customers from harm.
There are different types of fire extinguishers for different classes of fire, such as CO2, wet chemical, dry powder, foam, and water.
It is essential to know which type of fire extinguisher is suitable for which type of fire and how to use it correctly.
Fire extinguishers should also be placed in accessible locations, protected from damage or vandalism, and regularly checked and maintained by qualified professionals.
By having fire extinguishers in the workplace, you can demonstrate your commitment to fire safety and create a safer environment for your employees, customers, and visitors.
How do I use a fire extinguisher?
Using a fire extinguisher is not difficult, but you need to follow some basic steps to do it safely and effectively. Here is a summary of the PASS method, which is a common way to use a fire extinguisher1:
· Pull the pin between the handles.
· Aim the hose or nozzle at the base of the fire, leaving a distance of 6-10 feet between you and the fire.
· Squeeze the fire extinguisher’s handle.
· Sweep the extinguishing hose or nozzle from side to side to cover the base of the fire.
How often should I replace my fire extinguisher?
According to the web search results, you should replace your fire extinguisher every 12 years, unless it is damaged, corroded, or leaking. You should also check the pressure gauge and the nozzle regularly to make sure they are working properly. Fire extinguishers are essential for fire safety, so it is important to keep them in good condition and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
What should I look for when buying a new fire extinguisher?
There are several factors to consider when buying a new fire extinguisher, such as:
· The type of fire extinguisher: There are five main types of fire extinguishers, each suitable for different classes of fire. You should choose the type that matches the most likely fire hazards in your workplace or home. For example, if you have electrical equipment, you should get a CO2 extinguisher, which is safe and effective for Class C fires1. You can identify the type of fire extinguisher by its colour code and label.
· The size and weight of the fire extinguisher: You should select the largest fire extinguisher that you can safely and comfortably operate. The size and weight of the fire extinguisher affect its capacity and discharge time, which are important for putting out a fire. You can check the UL rating of the fire extinguisher to see how much extinguishing agent it contains and how long it lasts.
· The quality and reliability of the fire extinguisher: You should look for a fire extinguisher that has an independent UL or ULC certification, which ensures that it meets the national standards for safety and performance. You should also buy a fire extinguisher from a reputable brand or supplier and check the warranty and service options available.
These are some of the main aspects to look for when buying a new fire extinguisher
How do I dispose of an old fire extinguisher?
Disposing of an old fire extinguisher is not as simple as throwing it in the trash or recycling bin. Fire extinguishers contain chemicals that are unsafe for the environment and human health, and they need to be handled with care.
According to the web search results, there are three main methods for fire extinguisher disposal:
· Recycle the extinguisher if the canister is empty. You can check the pressure gauge to see if it is in the green section, which means it is fully pressurized. If it is in the yellow or red section, it means it is low or empty. You can also try to discharge the extinguisher in a safe place, such as outdoors or in a large metal container, to empty it completely. Once the canister is empty, you can remove the plastic parts and recycle the metal parts with your regular recycling trash.
· Drop off the extinguisher at a fire department if it is fully or partially charged. Some local fire departments accept portable fire extinguisher drop-offs, but you should call ahead of time to confirm. They may also charge a fee for this service. The fire department can either reuse or recycle the extinguisher safely.
· Take the extinguisher to a hazardous waste disposal facility if there is no fire department or recycling option in your area. Most cities and counties have their own local centre for hazardous waste disposal, where you can drop off your fire extinguisher and other items that are not suitable for regular trash or recycling. You should look up the centres in your area and schedule a drop-off. You should also ask about the hazard types and any restrictions before you go.
These are the safest and most responsible ways to dispose of an old fire extinguisher.
