Fires can start in a multitude of ways and are fuelled by a variety of substances. To combat each specific type of fire, there are different extinguishers. Knowing which extinguishers a business must have on hand and which one to use can save property and lives.
Having an appointed fire warden at work is also an essential part of fire safety. Fire wardens control people's movements during emergency evacuations by securing the site, communicating with first responders, and overseeing safe evacuation procedures.
Fire wardens work with the employer to ensure that fire safety standards and evacuation procedures are both in place and effective. This certified 2-3 Hour Fire Warden/Fire Marshal online training course will equip you with the essential fire safety training required to be a qualified fire warden/fire marshal.
By law, every shop premises and office must have proper fire safety measures in place before staff, or members of the public are permitted to enter. As an owner or employer, you are accountable for ensuring your building satisfies safety standards and is up to code. This online course in fire risk assessment will guide you through everything you need to understand about fire safety law.
What are the different classes of fires?
Fires are classified by the materials involved in the fire.
In the UK, electrical fires that involve live electrical equipment are not recognised as their own class, but it is important to be aware of them. They are sometimes informally referred to as "Class E" fires. Once the electrical component is removed (for example, the power is turned off), the class of the fire changes.
What are the different types of extinguishers?
Depending on the type of fire, you will be required to use a specific type of extinguisher. Using the wrong extinguisher can have detrimental consequences, ranging from the extinguisher not having much effect to making a fire worse.
Each type of extinguisher will be recognisable by a few characteristics and will be labelled for appropriate use. Look for the pictograph and the fire classification letter directly on the extinguisher's label. The five types of extinguishers are:
Through this 2-hour online fire extinguisher course, you'll discover the difference between the types of fire extinguishers, as well as how and when to use them. In addition, you'll develop skills to assess situations where a fire is present, including how to recognise the class of fire and how to decide whether or not to tackle it.
Water
Use these to extinguish Class A fires. Do not use water on a fat or oil fire or electrical devices. Fires on wood, paper, fabrics, and coals can be tackled using the Water fire extinguisher. The Water fire extinguisher is also known as the red fire extinguisher; it is distinguishable by a Water label printed in white. This type of extinguisher is an efficient way of cooling a fuel surface to decrease its burning rate.
Powder Extinguishers
There are three different types of powder extinguishers: ABC powder, M28 powder, and L2 powder. ABC Extinguishers can be used on the first three classes of fire, as well as electrical fires. M28 are used for Class D fires, and the L2 are to be used on lithium.
Foam Extinguishers
Foam extinguishers are effective on Class A and B fires. When used against Class B fires, don't spray the foam directly into the liquid, as this can cause it to splash. Instead, aim around the fire and let the foam run into the liquid. Do not use these extinguishes on any other class of fire, including electrical fires.
Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers
These extinguishers are used to combat Class B and electrical fires. They work by depriving the fire of oxygen in the air. As the gas discharges, it becomes extremely cold, so it is important not to hold the horn, base, or pipework as you operate the extinguisher.
Wet Chemical Extinguishers
Use these extinguishers on Class F fires. While they can be effective on Class A and B fires, there are better-suited extinguishers.
Where to receive fire safety training
Easybook Training offers Fire Safety training courses available to book online, including NEBOSH Fire Certificates and Fire Marshal Training courses. You can view all of our available Fire Safety Training Courses provided by our network of recommended training providers, dates and UK venues to find the most suitable course for you. If you can't find what you are looking for, please call 01892 543000, we will be happy to help.