Fire Extinguisher Selection & Use

Overview

Fire Extinguisher Selection & Use should be managed through a planned system of work: identify the task-specific hazards, eliminate exposure where practical, use engineered or collective controls before relying on PPE, verify critical safeguards before starting, and stop the task when controls are missing or conditions change. This guide applies those principles specifically to selecting, locating and using portable fire extinguishers for expected fire hazards.

Main Hazards

• • Wrong extinguisher type used on the fire class or energized equipment
• • Attempting to fight a fire without a safe escape route
• • Ignition of combustible or flammable materials
• • Burns from sparks, slag, flame or hot surfaces
• • Fire or explosion in adjacent or hidden spaces

Essential Controls

1. 1Match extinguisher type and rating to the credible fire hazard in the area.
2. 2Only trained personnel should attempt incipient-stage fire fighting while maintaining an escape path.
3. 3Remove or protect combustibles and check both sides of walls, floors and penetrations.
4. 4Use the required permit, gas testing and fire-watch controls before ignition sources are introduced.
5. 5Provide suitable fire-fighting equipment and maintain access to emergency routes.
6. 6Stop work if atmospheric conditions, ventilation or fire controls become inadequate.

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