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3.2 The Correct Fire Extinguishing Equipment Utilized in the Event of an Incident
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It is important to know the type of fire extinguishing equipment to use in the event of an incident whilst loading or off-loading or transporting dangerous substances.
The table below shows the type of extinguishers against specific fire types.
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Water-Fire Extinguishers:
The cheapest and most widely used fire extinguishers. Used for Class A fires. Not suitable for Class B (Liquid) fires, or where electricity is involved.
Foam Fire Extinguishers:
More expensive than water, but more versatile. They are used for Classes A & B fires. Foam spray extinguishers are not recommended for fires involving electricity, but are safer than water if inadvertently sprayed onto live electrical apparatus.
Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers:
Often termed the ‘multi-purpose’ extinguisher, as it can be used on classes A, B & C fires. Best for running liquid fires (Class B). Will efficiently extinguish Class C gas fires, BUT BEWARE, IT CAN BE DANGEROUS TO EXTINGUISH A GAS FIRE WITHOUT FIRST ISOLATING THE GAS SUPPLY. Special powders are available for class D metal fires.
CO2 Fire Extinguishers:
Carbon Dioxide is ideal for fires involving electrical apparatus, and will also extinguish class B liquid fires, but has NO POST-FIRE SECURITY and the fire could re-ignite.
