Fire Extinguishers - Different types

 Why do you need to train on fire extinguishers? They seem simply enough that all one needs to know is where they are located.  Let’s just talk about the different classes of fire extinguishers and the ratings.  It is extremely important that one has the right type of extinguisher for the material in the building.

The ratings A, B, C, and D define the kinds of material each fire extinguisher is intended to fight.

A – trash, paper, wood

B – flammable liquids

C – electrical equipment

D – metals

The most common type one may see is ABC Extinguisher. 

Inspect Fire Extinguishers

The imperative factor is that the fire extinguisher is current with inspections and will function in case of an emergency.

OSHA requirement is:

• fire extinguishers are to be visually inspected monthly. 
• annual maintenance check on portable fire extinguishers.
• record the annual maintenance date and retain this record for one year after the last entry or life of the shell whichever is less.