What are class B fire extinguishers used for?

Fire threats have been classified into different categories such as Class A, B, C, D, and K as per the different sources that feed these fires. The Class B fire is extremely hazardous. This kind of fire is fueled by flammable and combustible liquids such as alcohol, petroleum, gasoline, or even flammable gases. This kind of fire cannot be extinguished using water or water-based fire extinguisher. To deal with a Class B fire, it is essential to use a fire extinguisher rated class B. 

What is a Class B fire extinguisher? 

A Class B fire extinguisher is specifically designed to extinguish Class B fires in high-risk environments. Workshops, petrol pumps, laboratories, commercial warehouses, manufacturing buildings, and other businesses involved in the production, storage, or transportation of flammable liquids or gasses are risk-prone to industrial accidents that may cause a class B fire.  

To extinguish a Class B fire, the flames need to be smothered entirely, and the access to the source that is fueling the fire needs to be completely cut off. There are also higher chances of an explosion if the fire involves a flammable gas. Therefore, if you own any industrial unit that may involve class B fire hazard threats, it is essential to be equipped with the right fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems. It is highly recommended to opt for professional fire extinguisher services from licensed experts and ensure proper fire extinguisher maintenance from time-to-time for protection against any potential fire threats. 

How does a Class B fire extinguisher work? 

Class B fire extinguisher usually contains a carbon dioxide solution to quickly cut the fire’s oxygen supply and instantly smother the flames. It sprays CO2 directly at the source of the fire, dispelling the heat and oxygen supply. Some fire extinguishers commonly use chemical solutions such as Monoammonium phosphate, sodium bicarbonate, etc., to effectively fight these types of fires. These chemicals can suffocate the flames instantly while inducing a chemical reaction that extinguishes the fire. 

The class B fire extinguishers are labeled with a square containing the letter "B" to indicate it is supposed to be used for Class B fires. 

If you have any further questions regarding class B fire extinguishers or you haven’t scheduled fire extinguisher inspection services in the last six months, contact our experts for assistance.

Monthly fire extinguisher inspections: Everything you need to know!

Fire extinguishers are extremely important in every commercial as well as some residential buildings. Due to their small size, most people live with the misconception that they can’t provide fire protection, especially in NYC where rescue operations are quite difficult. But this is not true. In fact, fire extinguishers are the first line of defense to put out small fires in any residential and commercial buildings. As a result, they prevent fires from spreading throughout the building and eventually save you a lot of money. However, like any other system, fire extinguishers also have a limited lifespan and require regular maintenance and inspection to work properly. 

There are quite a number of people who think that fire extinguishers need to be inspected quarterly or annually by professionals for maintenance and refilling. But to ensure your fire extinguishers remain in working condition at all times, you need to consider monthly fire extinguisher inspections. However, hiring a professional isn’t necessary for monthly fire extinguisher service inspection. It can be done by a building manager or owner.  

Here are a few simple steps that involve a monthly fire extinguisher service! 

Check the gauge - Please keep in mind, checking the gauge doesn’t replace the annual charge test conducted by a professional. During monthly inspection, you need to check whether your gauge is visible or not. Dropped gauge usually indicates a low charge in your extinguisher, which could result from any leakage. 

Inspect the tank and nozzle - Apart from checking the gauge, you should also inspect the tank nozzle during monthly inspections. You should look for any signs of corrosion or leaks around the nozzle, as damaged nozzles can break during a fire emergency, leaving the extinguisher useless. On the other hand, when inspecting the tank, you need to make sure it is free from any dust, grease or debris. 

Shake it - If your building has dry chemical extinguishers, then you may require to shake them once a month. This will ensure the powder inside is fluffy and ready to dispense. Lack of monthly shaking usually causes the powder to settle down, which may fail to dispense during an emergency. 

Besides this, you also need to look for tamper seals and the expiring date when performing a monthly inspection on your fire extinguishers. No tamper seal means the extinguisher has been already used, which needs to be refilled immediately. 

Class of fire extinguishers to consider for fire safety

Fire safety is important to ensure the safety of your property, people and belongings. And, it is estimated that Global Fire Safety Equipment market size must be increased by 8.8% in 2023. Today, not only commercial buildings are well equipped with fire extinguishers but also the residential buildings are provided with necessary fire safety products. People are more conscious about fire extinguisher services and the market has a huge product line of fire safety equipment.

If you are looking for fire extinguishers (one of the most basic fire safety products) for your building then here are a few classes of extinguishers that you can consider.

Class A Extinguishers - If the fire is ordinary combustibles because of wood and paper, then you can consider class A. These fire extinguishers come with a numerical rating that refers to the amount of fire water held in the extinguisher.

Class B Extinguishers - These are used when the fire breakout is due to flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, oil, etc. The approximate number of square feet of a flammable liquid fire that a non-expert person can expect to extinguish by this equipment can be figured by its numerical rating.

Class C Extinguishers - If the fire is due to electrically energized circuit then these are your safest bet. You can easily distinguish them from others by the letters “C” written on them that indicates that the extinguishing agent is non-conductive.

Class D Extinguishers - These extinguishers generally have no rating and they are given a multi-purpose rating on different types of metals that are mentioned below.

Class K Extinguishers - These are specially used for commercial purposes and are kept for kitchen fires.

These are a few class of fire extinguishers that you can keep in mind before shopping fire safety equipment for your building. If you are looking for proficient fire extinguishers services then you can get in touch Hirdco.

Why should you get fire extinguishers installed?

Installing fire extinguishers is extremely crucial for safety measures. As a matter of fact, fires can break out at any place or location in the worst scenarios. No matter how many safety measures you have been taking, having a solid solution would prepare you to deal with the fire breakouts. In case, the fire is more spread out and is all ready to harm you, you need to have a tool to put the fire out as soon as possible in that situation.

Fire extinguishers are the best tools that are created for eliminating the fire. They are very effective in fire protection. When installing a fire extinguisher, you should always get them installed under the cabinets. Fire extinguisher cabinets protect your fire extinguishers against constant expose of sun, heat and adverse weather conditions. If you have installed them outdoors, then getting them stored under the cabinet is necessary.

Fire extinguisher cabinets also save the extinguisher from thefts and demolition. So, remember, you store them using cabinets.

The importance of installing fire extinguishers

All buildings, schools, institutes, organizations, hospitals, almost every building should have fire extinguishers installed. Using proper ways and techniques in putting out the fire is rather more important than using them in the absence of any awareness. Thus, when you have made a decision to use fire extinguishers, ensure that you are fully trained on how to use the fire extinguisher cabinet.

While many may think that water can also be used to put out the fire, not all fires are extinguished by water. There are some different kinds of fire that must require a fire extinguisher. There are some cases where water can be dangerous for putting out the fire.

Last, fire extinguishers and fire extinguisher cabinets are equally important.

10 Fire protection guidelines for commercial places

Each year, thousands of people die during fire mishaps, especially in commercial places. This is why the US government has made it mandatory for businesses to have a proper fire safety plan and fire protection systems.

Did you know?

• 19% of commercial fire accidents happened during weekends.
• The major cause of fires at workplaces is electrical equipment.

Whether you’re the owner or manager of a commercial building, it is your responsibility to make sure your business complies with fire safety standards and codes. Apart from installing fire protection systems in NYC, you need to provide your staff with fire safety training, so that they can handle a fire emergency situation and help during building evacuation.

Here are some of the guidelines that must be practiced to prevent a fire accident at workplaces.

• Make sure the work areas are free of combustible waste and clutter, as they can easily catch fire and quickly spread it. Therefore, it is important to practice good housekeeping.
• Keep your heat-producing equipment away from combustible materials and things.
• As mentioned already, most of the fire mishaps in commercial buildings result from electrical equipment. Therefore, make sure your electrical cords are in good working condition. If you find damaged or exposed wires, immediately repair or replace it.
• Keep a track of your power outlets. They shouldn’t be overloaded. And use extension cords and outlets that can handle the voltage of equipment they are connected with.
• Always store chemicals and flammable materials at a safe place, away from the ignition or heating source.
• When you connect an outlet with any equipment, make sure the plug fits perfectly with the outlet.
• The fire safety signages installed in your building should be clear and unobstructed. This is because these emergency exits and escape routes signages will only help your staff and customers evacuate the building in a fire emergency. So, they should be visible to everyone from a distance as well.
• If any fire protection system doesn’t work properly, it should be repaired or replaced immediately. Thus, regular inspection of fire protection systems is crucial.
• Make sure your fire extinguishers are up-to-date when it comes to inspection and must have tags, and indications of the recent inspection.
• Talk to your employees and explain to them the consequences of smoking on site.

In closing

Please remember, whether it’s in commercial building or a residential place, fire mishaps are almost always preventable. With installation and regular inspection of fire protection systems along with training your staff about fire safety, you can save yourself from property damage and loss of lives during a fire accident.

Common questions answered about Fire Extinguishers

If a fire breaks out in your building, fire extinguishers are a great option to extinguish the fire before it does any damage. So this means that the building should have proper fire extinguishers and should be in good working condition.

Not only this, there is a lot more you need to keep in mind if you have to keep your fire extinguishers in good condition.

Here are some everyday questions about keeping your extinguishers in the best possible condition.

Why is the fire extinguisher pin sealed?

The seal in the fire extinguisher is proof that it has not been used. If the pin is not there, it means the fire extinguisher may be activated. Without that pin, the fire extinguisher may be partly triggered. The seal contains a date which indicates the last time the extinguisher was inspected. If the seal is not there then one must always contact the fire service company and get it done.

How often must a fire extinguisher be inspected?

Fire Extinguishers should be checked at least once a month. This can be done by the fire service company or the person who is the person in charge of the safety cluster. Extinguishers should be inspected by someone who is trained. Once the inspection is done, the technician can put a tag which proves that the inspection has been done.

How do you know a fire extinguisher is unsafe?

It is not easy to spot when the extinguisher is unsafe. So the first thing while checking the extinguisher is to check the gauge. There is a zone between the 2 red ones. If you are in a situation where the indicator is in either of these zones, then your fire extinguisher needs immediate service.

Also, don't forget to check the pin. If the pin is lost or removed, then get the unit repaired, too.

How long is my fire extinguisher good for?

If your fire extinguisher is still operational, you should follow these three steps:

1. Check the date of manufacture – All the fire extinguishers have a date of manufacture on it. Most of the time what happens is nobody tends to check that the extinguisher is in good condition or not. Some extinguishers require refilling or refurbishing after years.
2. Check for annual inspections – Fire extinguishers should be inspected at least once a month. The inspection should be done by a trained technician. Once the inspection is done, make sure the date is mentioned on the extinguisher. This will make it easy for you to remember when the last inspection was done.

If you are unsure of any of the above steps, or still not certain whether your fire extinguishers are in good working order, contact a fire extinguisher expert to get more information. They can help you safely dispose of and replace your fire extinguishers.

If you have to make sure that all your fire extinguishers are in good conditions, go visit our website

What steps should you take during a fire emergency?

Whether in a commercial or residential building, fire emergencies can cause a lot of damage to property as well as lives.

Imagine a scenario at your home, you’re sound asleep and jolted awake by flames and smoke all over your home, and blaring smoke alarms. Often, people start to panic in situations like this, but you shouldn’t, as you have no time (even a second) to waste. This is because you and your family just have a few minutes to get out of the building. To act properly in a little time and scariest situation, you need to have proper fire safety education. Not only this, but you also need to get fire protection systems installed such as fire alarms, fire sprinklers, and fire extinguishers in Brooklyn.

To make sure you and your loved ones safely evacuate the building, the following are the steps you should take during a fire emergency.

Make an evacuation plan - By making an emergency evacuation plan during a fire incident can save you and your loved ones' lives. In the case of a commercial building, you can save the lives of your customers, clients, staff and your as well. To route an escape plan, you should start by drawing a map of your homes, such as doors, windows, hallways, and emergency exits like the back and front door. Apart from making a primary emergency evacuation route, also have contingency routes if any way is blocked.

Extinguish the fire - The first thing you need to do during a fire emergency is to call the fire department immediately and also try to put the fire off if you can. It’s your personal choice whether you want to use it or not. However, while professional help is on its way, it is always good to put off small flames using a fire extinguisher.

Rescue pets and human first and later things - During a fire emergency, the first things you should rescue are pets and humans, as they are non-replaceable items. Of course, we all want to save our hard-earned things like laptops or jewelry, but you must help your family members and pets in escaping the building. Once they are out of the danger, grab your belongings if you can.

Avoid elevator during a fire emergency - This plays an important part in your fire escape plan. But let us remind you that you should never take an elevator in the event of a fire incident. This is because you may get trapped or experience a fall if your elevator doesn’t operate, so always use the stairs to escape the building.

To conclude

 

Fire emergencies are unpredictable. Therefore, you should always be prepared to face fire incidents with installation and regular maintenance of fire protection systems in your building. Having proper knowledge of the fire escape plan can save you and your loved ones’ lives. But do not panic while doing so, as it can cloud your brain and you may fail to think clearly. Always be alert and take active decisions during a fire incident.

Why is Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Important?

Do you keep wondering why maintenance of fire extinguishers is essential? Well, not only it is effectively a legal need but as fire extinguishers play a crucial part in putting fires out before they get out of hand, it is vital that they function properly when needed.

The British Standards-which provides guidelines for fire safety-states that annual maintenance of fire equipment, including fire extinguishers must be carried out by an experienced professional that is one who has the relevant BAFE certification.

With proper maintenance and servicing carried out on a regular basis, fiore extinguishers should last for 5 to 15 years before they need to be replaced.

How often should fire extinguishers be serviced? Fire extinguishers should be maintained:

• When delivered (commissioning service)
• Monthly (on site by designated person)
• Annually (by a professional)

Commissioning service: This is an initial examination and service of the extinguisher to check for any signs of damage. It’s important that this takes place after delivery, in case of any damage caused in transit.

Monthly fire extinguisher maintenance: This is highly recommended to carry out regular fire extinguisher inspections on a monthly basis. The inspection makes sure whether or not the extinguisher is functioning properly or not. These assessments can be undertaken by a designated member of staff, no special training is needed. Records should be kept of each inspection in a special log book.

Things to look out for when carrying out a monthly fire extinguisher maintenance check:

1. The extinguisher has no visible signs of damage, wear and tear.
2. It is installed in the correct place it was intended and easily visible if needed.
3. Anti-tamper seals are present and have not been broken.
4. The needle of the extinguisher’s pressure gauge is in the green zone. (This means it is working fine).
5. Appropriate labelling and operating instructions are on the extinguisher.

How can you tell if a fire extinguisher needs servicing or replacing? If you discover any of the following during your fire extinguisher inspection you should consult a professional who will need to service and repair or replace the faulty extinguisher:

• The extinguisher is damaged, e.g. hose or nozzle is cracked, ripped or blocked.
• If the handle is wobbly or broken.
• The pressure gauge needle is outside the green zone. (This means the extinguisher will need servicing immediately).
• Locking pin is missing or anti-tamper seal is broken.
• Appropriate labelling and operating instructions are missing.

All fire extinguishers should be labelled with details of their last inspection; if this is not present you should have the extinguisher checked over by a professional.

Fire Protection Requirements When Building or Renovating Your Office

If you are planning to renovate your office or build a new one, you need to give thought to fire protection requirements. This fire plan is for the safety of the employees inside the building and helps ensure the protection of the machines and data that is stored inside.

Hence, what are the requirements you need to consider?
Let’s take a look at fire alarm systems, the types of materials needed, emergency lighting and having a fire safety plan put in place.
 
Fire Alarm Systems
Placing a fire alarm should be mandatory. This will not only alert the entire office staff but also will inform the emergency services. The quicker you can get out of the building, the better chance of preventing injuries.

The type of alarm system you should install in your office depends on the kind of equipment your office has. If case you have a lot of electrical equipments, it may be better if you include an EPO system to your alarm system. This will help in preventing the fire from spreading and prevent further damage to the equipments.
 
Type of Materials Used
It is better to use less amount of combustible material. Although the items within the office plays an important role, so using items that are less flammable should be considered.

Although the items within the office play a significant role, a fire typically spreads throughout the walls and ceiling of a building. So using material that is less flammable should be considered.

Emergency Lighting and Exits
In case a fire breaks out and you have an epo system installed, the system won’t last for long. When there is no light in office, it becomes dark. With no light, it makes it very difficult for the employees to run away and emergency services to get in.

Fire Safety Plan
A good proper safety plan can save the lives of your employees. This plan should consist of the routes taken for emergency exits, when someone notices a fire, smells smoke etc.

Also it should consist of routine maintenance to all the equipments and systems. The purpose behind this plan is to make sure that everyone remains safe.

Make sure you keep your office protected with high quality of fire equipments. In case you face a problem, contact a reputable company that will do a good job for you.

If you are looking for Fire Protection Systems & Services in Queens, then consider the services of William Hird & Co, Inc. For further information contact (718) 499-4881

Top Reasons Why Fire Extinguishers Training Is Important For Employees

Accidental fires can lead to a loss of property and life in case fire extinguisher services are not employed in time. Simply installing fire extinguishers in your vicinity, whether residential or commercial is not enough.


The employees working for you should know how to use these extinguisher services in case of fire emergencies.


According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) the employees cannot use the fire safety services until they are trained properly.


According to the norms set up by OSHA, it is the responsibility of the employer to educate and train the employees regarding the use of fire safety tools. In case they are not trained, they will not be compliant to make use of the fire extinguisher or any other fire safety service in the times of emergency. The  fire safety training must include the following:

• Identify the situation in which the fire extinguisher should be used
• Know about the correct way of using the fire safety equipment

It is mandatory to impart this training initially when the employer hires the worker. Resuming it thereafter.  It is also essential for the employers to release a statement clearly stating who is eligible for using the fire extinguisher services and the correct method of using it.


Below mentioned are the top reasons why fire extinguisher training is important for employees:
#1. OSHA requirements: According to the OSHA regulations, a worker is not eligible to use the fire extinguishers if he is not appropriately trained. Employers must issue a statement telling the workers to evacuate the commercial building in case of fire mishaps. Only those employees can stay who have adequate knowledge about the working and usage of the fire extinguishers and other safety equipments. 


#2. Prevention of injuries: Making use of a fire extinguisher for the first time could escalate the situation and cause even more damage. This is the reason why it is important to impart educational and practical training to the employees. Training will teach you how to avoid mistakes and properly use the fire safety equipment that will help in preventing loss of property and curb loss of life.


#3. Prevention of damage to property: A small fire can become big if proper actions are not taken in time. Training the employees to handle such situations can certainly help in preventing property damage.


Are you looking for fire extinguisher services? Contact William Hird & Co. inc. For more information call at (718) 499-4881