Fire extinguishers are essential elements of safety in every workplace. However, many businesses and residential places are challenged on how to position, use and maintain them appropriately and this can lead to dangerous consequences in the event of a fire outbreak. A brief direction on this topic would mean a big difference between containing a small fire and experiencing intense fire injuries, property damage, or even death.
At Safety Hub Enterprises Limited, we specialize on solutions to ensure safety at your workplace, including top-quality fire extinguishers and staff training on safety to keep your businesses and premises protected. In this article, we delve into some of the biggest mistakes businesses make with fire extinguishers and how to avoid them, ensuring maximum safety and compliance.
Mistake No:1: Using the Wrong Type of Fire Extinguisher
Every fire extinguishers has its own purpose. Different fire classes require specific extinguishers, and using the wrong type can worsen a fire instead of putting it out.
Here are some of the most common Fire Extinguisher Types:
- Water Extinguishers (Class A): Effective for fires involving wood, paper, and textiles.
- Foam Extinguishers (Class A & B): Suitable for solid materials and flammable liquids.
- CO2 Extinguishers (Class B & Electrical): Designed for electrical fires and flammable liquids.
- Dry Powder Extinguishers (Class A, B, C): Versatile but messy; effective for multiple fire types.
- Wet Chemical Extinguishers (Class F): Essential for kitchen fires involving cooking oils and fats.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- You need to conduct a fire risk assessment to help you determine the right extinguisher for your workplace.
- Remember to place the appropriate extinguishers in the most accessible locations.
- Offer staff training on which extinguisher to use for different fire types.
Mistake No.2: Poor Fire Extinguisher Placement
There is no need to have a fire extinguisher if you cannot locate or access it the event of an emergency. You will find many businesses placing them too high, too low, or in obstructed areas.
Common Placement Errors:
- Installing extinguishers in hidden or hard-to-reach areas.
- Mounting them too high, making them difficult to grab in an emergency.
- Placing them in locations where they are blocked by furniture or equipment.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Fire extinguishers should be clearly visible and within easy reach.
- Mount them at an appropriate height (typically 1m – 1.5m from the ground).
- Ensure signage is in place to indicate their location.
- Regularly inspect to make sure nothing is obstructing access.
Mistake No. 3: Failure to Maintain and Inspect them regularly
Fire extinguishers require regular maintenance to ensure they function when needed. Failing to inspect or service them can lead to malfunctions or expired extinguishers.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Conduct monthly visual inspections to check for damage, corrosion, or missing parts.
- Schedule professional servicing at least once a year as required by safety regulations.
- Replace expired extinguishers immediately.
- Ensure employees report any damage or missing units.
Mistake No. 4: Lack of Employee Training
Having fire extinguishers in the workplace is not enough; employees must know how to use them effectively. In an emergency, untrained staff may panic or use them incorrectly, leading to ineffective firefighting or injuries.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Conduct regular fire safety training for all employees at least once a year.
- Teach your employees the the PASS method:
- Pull the pin.
- Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the handle.
- Sweep from side to side.
- Also remember to run fire drills regularly to ensure preparedness.
Mistake No. 5: Failure to Replace Used or Expired Extinguishers
A fire extinguisher is only effective if it contains enough pressure and extinguishing agent. Many businesses forget to replace or recharge extinguishers after partial use or after their expiry date.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Check expiration dates regularly.
- Recharge extinguishers after any use, even if only partially discharged.
- Have a policy in place to replace old or damaged extinguishers promptly.
- Work with a professional fire safety provider to keep track of extinguisher servicing schedules.
Mistake No. 6: Ignoring Legal and Safety Regulations
Fire safety laws and regulations vary by region, and businesses must comply to avoid fines and legal consequences. Non-compliance can also put employees and customers at risk.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Familiarize yourself and your employees with OSHA and local fire safety codes.
- Work with certified fire safety professionals to ensure compliance.
- Keep records of all fire safety inspections and training sessions.
- Display clear instructions and evacuation plans in all key areas.
Mistake No. 7: Failure to Assign the Required Number of Fire Extinguishers
One or two fire extinguishers may not be enough for a large workplace. Businesses must ensure they have sufficient coverage based on their premises’ size and fire risks.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Follow fire safety guidelines for extinguisher placement.
- Ensure an extinguisher is no more than 75 feet away from any employee.
- Place extra extinguishers in high-risk areas (e.g., kitchens, electrical rooms, storage areas with flammable materials).
Mistake No. 8: Failing to Develop a Comprehensive Fire Safety Plan
Fire extinguishers are only one aspect of fire safety. Businesses should have a complete fire prevention and response plan in place.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Establish clear fire safety procedures and assign fire wardens.
- Conduct regular fire drills to prepare employees for real emergencies.
- Install fire alarms, smoke detectors, and emergency exits alongside extinguishers.
- Maintain an up-to-date fire risk assessment document.
The Role of Safety Hub Ltd in Fire Safety
At Safety Hub Ltd, we are committed to help businesses and homes to enhance their fire safety measures. We provide:
- A wide range of high-quality fire extinguishers tailored to different fire risks.
- Professional maintenance and servicing to keep your extinguishers in top condition.
- Comprehensive fire safety training to equip your employees with the knowledge to handle fire emergencies.
- Consultation services to ensure your business is compliant with local fire safety laws.
By working with Safety Hub Ltd, you can minimize fire risks and protect your employees, customers, and property from preventable fire hazards.
In essence, Fire extinguishers are one of the first lines of defense against workplace fires, but only when used, maintained, and positioned correctly. Avoiding common mistakes such as using the wrong type, neglecting maintenance, and failing to train employees can significantly improve workplace safety.
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Don’t wait for an emergency to realize your fire safety measures are inadequate. Contact Safety Hub Ltd today for expert guidance, top-quality fire extinguishers, and comprehensive safety solutions to keep your business protected.
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