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Fire And Fire Extinguisher In Details Global EHS 077 Word
Fire And Fire Extinguisher In Details Global EHS 077 Word
Fire And Fire Extinguisher In Details Global EHS 077 Word
Phases of Fire:
• Ignition: The initial stage where fuel, oxygen, and heat combine to start the fire.
• Growth: The fire spreads and grows in intensity as it consumes more fuel and produces more heat.
• Fully Developed: The fire reaches its peak intensity, consuming the available fuel at its maximum rate.
• Decay: The fire's intensity decreases as the fuel is consumed and heat is reduced.
Types of Combustion:
1. Complete Combustion: Occurs when there is enough oxygen for the fuel to react completely, producing
carbon dioxide, water, and releasing maximum heat.
2. Incomplete Combustion: Occurs when there is insufficient oxygen, resulting in the production of carbon
monoxide, soot, and less heat.
By-products of Fire:
• Heat: The primary output of fire, which can cause burns and increase the spread of fire.
• Light: Visible flames and glow from the combustion process.
• Smoke: A mixture of airborne solid and liquid particulates, gases, and aerosols produced during
combustion.
• Gases: Carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), water vapor (H₂O), & other toxic gases depending
on the materials burned.
Classification of Fire:
As per NFPA, based on source of material for fire, they are classified in to A, B, C, D, K.
1. Class A: Ordinary Combustibles
• Description: For fires involving common combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and
some plastics.
• Extinguishing Agents: Water, foam, multipurpose dry chemical.
• Symbol: Green triangle with an "A".
2. Class B: Flammable Liquids and Gases
• Description: For fires involving flammable or combustible liquids and gases like gasoline, oil, grease, tar,
oil-based paints, and flammable gases.
• Extinguishing Agents: Carbon dioxide (CO₂), foam, dry chemical.
• Symbol: Red square with a "B".
3. Class C: Electrical Equipment
• Description: For fires involving energized electrical equipment such as appliances, wiring, circuit
breakers, and outlets.
• Extinguishing Agents: Non-conductive agents like carbon dioxide (CO₂), dry chemical.
• Symbol: Blue circle with a "C".
4. Class D: Combustible Metals
• Description: For fires involving combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, potassium, and
sodium.
• Extinguishing Agents: Dry powder specifically designed for the particular metal.
• Symbol: Yellow star with a "D".
5. Class K: Cooking Oils and Fats
• Description: For fires involving cooking oils and fats, common in commercial kitchens.
• Extinguishing Agents: Wet chemical agents designed to saponify oils and fats, forming a non-
combustible soapy layer.
• Symbol: Black hexagon with a "K".
Note:
• Fires where the fuel is flammable or combustible gas are classified as "Class C" in the European/Australian system, and
"Class B" along with flammable liquids in the US system.
• Electrical Fires are classified as a "Class E" fire under the Australian system, "Class C" under the American system.
• Fires involving cooking oils and fats are classified as "Class F" under the European and Australian systems, and "Class K"
under the American system.
It is necessary to understand the components, types, operation and maintenance of fire extinguishers, so that
individuals can be better prepared to handle fire emergencies effectively.
Key Components:
1. Container: The body of the fire extinguisher, usually made of metal, that holds the extinguishing agent
under pressure.
2. Extinguishing Agent: The substance used to put out the fire. Common agents include water, foam, dry
chemical powder, carbon dioxide (CO₂), and wet chemicals.
3. Pressure Mechanism: A system that pressurizes the extinguishing agent to enable its discharge. This
typically involves a compressed gas (such as nitrogen) or a manually operated pump.
4. Hose and Nozzle: A flexible tube (hose) and a directing nozzle that allow the user to aim and control the
discharge of the extinguishing agent.
5. Handle and Trigger: The handle is used to carry the extinguisher, and the trigger or lever is used to
activate the discharge mechanism.
6. Pressure Gauge: Indicates whether the extinguisher is properly pressurized and ready for use.
7. Safety Pin and Seal: Prevents accidental discharge. The pin must be removed to activate the extinguisher,
and a tamper-evident seal ensures it hasn't been used or tampered with.