Placement of Fire Extinguishers

Last Updated on July 28, 2024 by Abdullah Meraz

Right placement of the fire extinguisher ensure maximum fighting abilities against fires. And it is very crucial for fire safety.

In my 17 years carrier I worked with placement of thousands fire extinguishers for the factories and home fire safety. I shared my practical experience as much as I grown. I hope it will make you more informative and help you to place fire extinguishers perfectively.

Proper placement of fire extinguishers is crucial for effective fire safety in any building or premises. By adhering to guidelines set by organizations like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), you can ensure that fire extinguishers are strategically located and readily accessible when needed. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the accurate placement of fire extinguishers.

It is important to have the knowledge on classification of fires that’s related with the perfect matching of fire extinguishers.

• Class A: Suitable for fires involving everyday combustible materials like paper, cloth, and wood.
• Class B: Designed for fires fueled by flammable liquids such as grease, paint, solvents, and oil.
• Class C: Intended for fires involving live electrical equipment like motors and electrical panels.
• Class D: Specifically designed for fires fueled by flammable metals like aluminum and magnesium.
• Class K: Used for fires in commercial cooking environments, typically caused by animal fats, cooking oils, and vegetable oils.

It’s important to select the appropriate fire extinguisher based on the specific fire risks present in your building or premises.

Additionally, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides guidelines for the maximum travel distance to fire extinguishers from any location within a building. Adhering to these guidelines ensures that extinguishers are readily accessible during fire emergencies. Here’s a summary of the NFPA guidelines:

• For Class A and Class D fire hazards, maintain a maximum travel distance of 75 feet from any particular point in the building or premises.
• For Class B fire extinguishers, the travel distance should be between 30 to 50 feet from any location within the building or premises.
• Class K fire extinguishers should be located within 30 feet of any point within the building or premises.
• For Class C extinguishers, determine the placement based on the fire risk, applying either Class A or Class B requirements as appropriate.

By following NFPA standards and ensuring that fire extinguishers are strategically placed within the specified distances, you can optimize fire safety and readiness in your building or premises.

It is obvious, you want maximum effectiveness of your fire extinguishers in the event of fires.

So ensure the type of extinguisher is appropriate for the area (e.g., wet chemical near the kitchen).

Also confirm adequate coverage area and visibility for occupants.

Ensure accessibility to fire extinguishers, and post signage if obstructions are present.

Follow NFPA-10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers during installation.

Near the Kitchen

Kitchen is a high-risk area due to the presence of cooking appliances and flammable materials like cooking oil and fats. Mount a wet chemical fire extinguisher near the kitchen area, maintaining a safe distance from heat sources.

Always follow NFPA-10 standard mounting instructions to ensure proper installation.

In the Garage

Garages often contain flammable liquids and combustible materials, increasing the risk of fires. Install dry chemical powder or foam extinguishers near the exit of the garage to combat incipient fires effectively.

Adhere to NFPA-10 standard mounting guidelines for secure installation.

Near Electrical Panels

You know electrical panels pose a high fire hazard due to the potential for overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. You should place a carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguisher near electrical panel boards to address incipient fires promptly.

Obviously follow NFPA-10 standard mounting instructions to ensure proper placement and accessibility.

In Hallways and Corridors

Hallways and corridors serve as crucial evacuation routes during emergencies. Mount fire extinguishers along these pathways for easy access by occupants in case of a fire. Use water, foam, or dry chemical powder extinguishers based on the specific hazards present through the way.

Ensure compliance with NFPA-10 standard mounting requirements for optimal safety.

In Workshops and Storage Areas

It is required for workshops and storage areas often containing flammable materials that increase the risk of fire outbreaks. Install dry chemical powder or foam fire extinguishers in visible and easily accessible locations within these areas.

Adhere to NFPA-10 standard mounting guidelines to ensure proper installation and readiness for use in emergencies.

NFPA-10 standards specify installation heights based on extinguisher weight:

1. Extinguishers weighing 40 pounds or more: Maximum height of canister is 3.5 feet from the ground, with the bottom at least 4 inches off the ground.
   1. Extinguishers weighing less than 40 pounds: Maximum height of canister is 5 feet from the ground, with the bottom at least 4 inches off the ground.

Finally, proper placement and installation of fire extinguishers are essential components of fire safety. Adhering to NFPA guidelines ensures that extinguishers are strategically located and readily accessible in the event of a fire. By following these recommendations, you can enhance fire safety preparedness in your building or premises.