All Fire Extinguishers have the same basic make up regardless of type. For more information on types of extinguishers click here.
The Principal features of an extinguisher include:
- Pressurised vessel
- Carry Handle
- Valve assembly
- Pull pin, safety catch or anti-tamper seal
- Pressure indicating gauge (excluding Co2 extinguishers)
Stored Pressure Water Extinguisher (Class A) features include:
- Red cylinder
- Water
- Pressurised Air – kpa
- Requires a 6 metre throw
- 45-60 sec discharge
Dry Chemical Powder Extinguisher (Class ABE & BE) features include:
- Red cylinder with large white band
- Monoammonium Phosphate
- Inert Gas
- Class A, B and C Fires
- 3-4 metre throw
- 8-20 sec discharge (flammable liquid fires may reignite)
All Extinguishers require inspection & testing every 6 months in accordance with Australian Standards. This testing is to ensure that the extinguisher is operational in the event of an emergency.
Each extinguisher is recorded on an asset register and the tag on the equipment is also stamped. All extinguishers will have the gauges checked to ensure no loss of pressure or over pressurisation of the unit has occurred. The units are also checked to ensure pull pins are installed, correct signage is installed, they are appropriately fitted to the bracket on the wall. Each extinguisher is also cleaned to ensure that it is not compromised in anyway by dirt or dust. Different types of fire extinguishers require different methods to engage the extinguishing agent. Dry Chemical extinguishers are also inverted to make sure the powder remains free flowing.
Compliance Services Australia can provide a free no obligation quote of your site for testing requirements as well as provide information and advice of best practices to suit your needs. Contact us today on 03 9559 2777 or email us now.