Working with combustible materials on the same job site where open flames, sparks, or other combustion sources can be present makes it essential to have a fire extinguisher available that is designed for the combustibles you are working with. For a construction company or contractor, that can mean having several different fire extinguisher types available workers can move that around the site during different phases of construction.
One Extinguisher To Cover Many Materials
If you are only going to have one type of fire extinguisher on your job site, a dry chemical extinguisher is the most versatile and can be used for many materials. Dry chemical extinguishers are rated for Class a, b, and c fires, including wood, paper, cloth, flammable liquids, energized electrical items, and trash, making them well suited for nearly anything that can happen on the job site.
These extinguishers come in many sizes, from small handheld units to large tanks mounted on carts with long hoses that allow you to use them on larger fires. Because they are so versatile, keeping a few on the job site and making sure people know where to find them can be extremely helpful.
Fire Extinguisher Training
It is essential that contractors train their workers on how to properly use a fire extinguisher so that if a fire breaks out, they will know where to find the fire extinguisher and how to properly use it to effectively put out a fire. Many local fire departments offer classes to local businesses, so get in touch with the department where your business is located and see if they can train your crew to use a fire extinguisher on different fire types for you.
A class that offers live practice is the best option because it gives the user a feel for how the extinguisher works and what to expect the first time they squeeze the trigger and aim the extinguisher at a fire. For a larger fire, you may need two people working together to put out the flames, and the training class will often cover that option as well.
Servicing Your Fire Extinguishers
Having fire extinguishers on the job is essential, but they need to be appropriately checked and serviced to ensure they will work when you need them. It is vital that you have a fire extinguisher service check your extinguishers once a year, and if you use one, take it to them to be cleaned, inspected, and recharged,
If the fire extinguisher is not serviced correctly, it could fail when you need it, and the results could be catastrophic. Big fires start small, and if you can't put out the small one, you could have a fire that will destroy a building, equipment, or injuries.
For more information, contact a fire extinguisher supplier.
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