Portable Fire Extinguishers
Inspections:
Did you know it is required by law to have your extinguishers inspected annually?
Like fire alarm systems, states in New England have adopted NFPA-10 (standard for portable fire extinguishers) which makes it the law. Each year, your extinguishers must be inspected by a qualified technician and once the extinguisher passes inspection a new tamper seal is installed on the firing pin and an inspection tag tied to the extinguisher. The extinguisher is good for one year from the date punched on the tag.
Maintenance:
Fire extinguishers are required to undergo maintenance at specific intervals from the date of manufacture based on the type. Inspectors will note when these services are due during your annual inspection. From there we can provide pricing and perform these services.
Fire Extinguisher Classifications
Class A
Class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials, such as cloth, wood, paper, rubber, and many plastics. Extinguishers with an A rating are designed to extinguish fires involving these ordinary combustible materials.
Class B
Class B fires involve flammable and combustible liquids such as gasoline, alcohol, oil-based paints, lacquers. Therefore, extinguishers with a B rating are designed to extinguish fires involving flammable and combustible liquids.
Class C
Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment. Extinguishers with a C rating are designed for use with fires involving energized electrical equipment.
Class D
Class D fires involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. Extinguishers with a D rating are designed to extinguish fires involving combustible metals.
Class K
Class K fires involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. Extinguishers with a K rating are designed to extinguish fires involving vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats utilized in commercial cooking appliances.
Multipurpose Extinguishers
Most portable extinguishers are rated for use with more than one classification of fire. For example, an extinguisher with a BC rating is suitable for use with fires involving flammable liquids and energized electrical equipment. An extinguisher with an ABC rating is suitable for use with fires involving ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids and energized electrical equipment. An extinguisher that is rated for use with multiple hazards should include a symbol for each hazard type.