What are dry powder extinguishers used for?
Dry powder extinguishers are filled with a dry chemical extinguishing agent, usually a combination of ammonium sulphate and monoammonium phosphate. When the dry powder is applied to a burning solid, the powder insulates the solid because it is burning at an extremely high temperature.
When applied to a burning liquid or gas, the powder coats the surface of the fire and, in the process, interrupts the chain of reaction in the fire. With electrical fires, the powder is not a conductor of electricity, so when an individual sprays dry powder on an electrical fire, the powder will not conduct electricity back to the individual, as would be the case with water or other substances.
It should be noted, however, that if used on certain types of chemical fires, the powder can actually react with the chemicals and create an explosion. This is why it is important to be very aware of the environmental conditions and potential fire risks of an area before selecting a fire extinguisher. Our
Fire Extinguisher Signs are an essential element of your fire safety solution — they contain all the information for dealing with fires and the uses of these extinguishers, at a glance.
What colour are dry powder fire extinguishers?
ABC dry powder fire extinguishers are identified through a blue identification tag located on the extinguisher canister with the word ‘powder’ on it. Dry powder fire extinguishers are also commonly referred to as ABC extinguishers, multi-purpose extinguishers and dry chemical extinguishers. These extinguishers are so useful and versatile that there are a number of them designed for specific uses and environments, including
mobile extinguishers and
wall-mounted automatic extinguishers, which can be used in various situations.
How do dry powder fire extinguishers work?
In order to use a dry powder fire extinguisher, the user must remove the pin to perforate the anti-tamper seal and then stand far enough away from the flames while aiming the extinguisher at the base of the fire and quickly sweep the trajectory of the powder back and forth. Dry powder extinguishers should never be used in confined spaces as the powder is meant to spread over a large area. If used in confined spaces, the powder can obstruct vision, causing additional safety hazards, and can also cause asphyxiation when inhaled.
Dry powder extinguisher placement
Although dry powder fire extinguishers are useful for putting a stop to almost all fires, they are especially effective when used in outdoor environments where there is a risk of several different types of fires being started. For example, in a garage, fuel tanker or large workshop, there may be flammable liquids, electrical equipment and wood structures. In such spaces where various kinds of blazes could potentially start, a dry powder extinguisher is particularly useful because it is so versatile and can extinguish a number of different fires. An adequate storage solution such as a
fire extinguisher stand or bracket is also useful.
Do I need a dry powder fire extinguisher?
Dry powder fire extinguishers are multi-purpose fire extinguishers that can be useful in a range of workplaces and situations. They work on several different types of fire, making them suitable for use as office fire extinguishers, home fire extinguishers and, of course, kitchen fire extinguishers. If you have these types of fire hazards in your business, these can be the perfect workplace fire extinguishers for you. There are some types of fire that cannot be doused with dry powder fire extinguishers (see below). You should carry out a risk assessment to ascertain exactly what fire safety equipment you need.
What type of fires can dry powder extinguishers be used on?
They can be used on Class A, Class B and Class C fires (which is why they are also referred to as ABC powder fire extinguishers). These encompass fires caused by flammable solids, liquids and gases. Powder fire extinguishers can also be used on small electrical fires involving electrical equipment up to 1000v. Dry powder fire extinguishers should not be used on larger electrical fires, fires in enclosed spaces, or cooking oil fires (which are classified as Class F fires).
How to use a dry powder fire extinguisher
Dry powder fire extinguishers are easy to use. The pin must be removed before use to perforate the anti-tamper seal. The user should then stand back from the flames and aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire, directing the powder back and forth to cover the entire area where the fire has taken hold. Remember that this type of fire extinguisher has a blue identification tag. Do not use a blue dry powder fire extinguisher in an enclosed space.
What does a dry powder fire extinguisher contain?
These are basically dry chemical extinguishers, and generally contain an extinguishing agent known as monoammonium phosphate, in powder form. When the extinguisher is used, the powder is forced out of the extinguisher body by a compressed, non-flammable gas.
How to inspect a dry powder fire extinguisher
As with any fire equipment, you will want to inspect your dry powder fire extinguisher regularly to ensure that it is still in working order. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that you have done the correct checks for the type of extinguisher you have. This will usually involve checking for dents, rust and other damage, and making sure that the pressure gauge is still in the correct zone.
What are the best workplace fire extinguishers?
Depending on specific conditions in your workplace, you may need anything from industrial fire extinguishers to kitchen, office or garage fire extinguishers. Here are a few of our popular multi-purpose fire extinguishers:
- ABC Powder Fire Extinguisher & Instruction Sign Bundle — This versatile dry powder fire extinguisher is ideal for the home and office, for use on Class A, B, and C fires.
- Vehicle Fire Safety Bundle Kit — Includes a dry powder fire extinguisher and kit for treating minor burns.
- Mobile ABC Powder Fire Extinguishers — Easy to move around, even for one person, these are ideal for use in large fuel storage areas.
Here at Seton, we have a range of dry powder fire extinguishers. If you have any questions, feel free to call us and talk to our friendly experts.
