Why should we have our fire extinguishers inspected?

Regular inspection of fire extinguishers is essential to ensure they are fully operational when needed. Over time, extinguishers can develop faults such as pressure loss, corrosion, or damaged components, which may render them ineffective during an emergency. Inspections help identify these issues early, guaranteeing the extinguisher complies with safety standards and local regulations. Maintaining properly serviced fire extinguishers not only protects property and lives but also provides peace of mind knowing that your fire safety equipment will perform reliably in critical situations.

How often does my fire extinguisher need to be inspected?

Your fire extinguisher should be inspected at least once a year by a qualified professional to ensure it is in proper working condition. In addition to the annual professional inspection, a monthly visual check by Jones Fire Proctection or the user is recommended to verify that the extinguisher is easily accessible, the pressure gauge is in the operable range, and there are no obvious signs of damage or tampering. Regular maintenance and servicing are essential to guarantee that the fire extinguisher will function correctly in an emergency.

How many fire extinguishers do I need for my business?

The number of fire extinguishers required for your business depends on several factors including the size of the premises, the type of fire hazards present, and applicable local fire codes and regulations.

Key considerations:

1. Square Footage:
   Fire safety guidelines often recommend having one fire extinguisher for every 3,000 to 5,000 square feet of floor area. This can vary depending on the type of occupancy.

2. Type of Business and Hazards:
   Different environments pose different fire risks. For example, a kitchen or workshop with flammable liquids or electrical equipment will require extinguishers rated for those specific hazards (Class B, C, or multipurpose ABC extinguishers).

3. Travel Distance:
   OSHA and NFPA standards often require that the maximum travel distance to reach an extinguisher is no more than 75 feet. This means extinguishers should be placed strategically so that any employee can reach one quickly.

4. Number of Floors:
   If your business occupies multiple floors, each floor needs adequate fire extinguisher coverage.

5. Compliance with Local Codes:
   Your local fire marshal or fire protection authority may impose specific requirements. Always consult local regulations and codes as they may be stricter than national guidelines.

General Rule of Thumb:

• One properly rated extinguisher per 3,000 square feet for low hazard areas.

• More extinguishers will be needed if higher fire risks are present or if the layout requires shorter access paths.

Next Steps:
Contact Jones Fire Protection to perform a fire risk assessment tailored to your business. We will evaluate your premises and recommend the number and type of extinguishers necessary to ensure safety and code compliance. At JONES FIRE PROTECTION, we offer expert assessments and can service and maintain all required equipment to keep your business protected.

What are the different types of fire extinguishers and their uses?

There are several types of fire extinguishers, each designed to combat specific classes of fire. Understanding their uses is crucial for effective fire safety:

1. Water Fire Extinguishers (Class A)

   • Use: Suitable for ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, and textiles.

   • Not suitable for: Electrical fires or flammable liquid fires.

2. Foam Fire Extinguishers (Class A and B)

   • Use: Effective on fires involving solids like wood and paper, and flammable liquids such as petrol or paints.

   • Not suitable for: Electrical fires.

3. Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers (Class A, B, C)

   • Use: Versatile extinguisher suitable for flammable gases, electrical fires, and typical combustibles.

   • Note: Leaves a powder residue, which may cause damage to sensitive equipment.

4. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Fire Extinguishers (Class B and Electrical)

   • Use: Ideal for electrical fires and flammable liquid fires.

   • Advantages: Leaves no residue, making it suitable for sensitive equipment.

5. Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers (Class F)

   • Use: Designed specifically for cooking oil and fat fires, such as those in kitchens.

   • Method: Cools and creates a soapy layer to prevent re-ignition.

Each extinguisher type is labeled with the classes of fire it can safely extinguish. Selecting the right extinguisher for your environment is vital for effective fire safety management. Always ensure regular maintenance and servicing by the qualified professionals at Jones Fire Protection.