Workplace fire extinguishers: which type should you choose?
The 5 fire classes defined by standard NF EN 2
Before choosing a fire extinguisher, you need to identify the class of fire it must fight. Standard NF EN 2 distinguishes five classes: A (solid materials such as wood, paper or fabric), B (flammable liquids and liquefiable solids), C (gases), D (metals) and F (cooking oils and fats). Each class calls for a specific extinguishing agent, using the wrong type can be ineffective, or even worsen the fire.
A fire involving live electrical equipment does not belong to an official fire class. Only a CO2 extinguisher is recommended: water and foam are conductive and expose the user to electrocution.
Which extinguisher for which risk?
The table below summarises the recommended uses and limitations of the main extinguisher types found in workplaces.
Extinguishers: recommended use and limitations
| Recommended use | Limitations | |
|---|---|---|
| Water spray | Class A (wood, paper, fabric) | Ineffective on electrical or flammable-liquid fires |
| Multi-purpose ABC powder | Classes A, B and C | Corrosive residue, reduced visibility in enclosed spaces |
| CO2 | Electrical fires, class B | Ineffective on deep-seated solid fires (class A) |
| Class F extinguisher | Cooking oils and fats (deep fryers) | Does not replace a general-purpose extinguisher for other classes |
Maintenance and mandatory inspection
Article R4227-29 of the French Labour Code requires employers to equip their premises with a sufficient number of extinguishers and keep them in good working order: at least one 6-litre water spray extinguisher per 200 sqm of floor space, with one unit per level. Standard NF S61-919 and the APSAD R4 rule recommend an annual inspection by an approved technician, who checks pressure, the pin, and the absence of corrosion.
Are your fire safety devices compliant?
Find out in a few minutes whether your extinguishers and procedures meet the Labour Code and current standards.
SécuQuiz
Test your knowledge on fire extinguishers
Question 1 sur 3
Which extinguisher should be used on a fire involving live electrical equipment?
