Fire safety is perhaps the most critical component of running an office, factory, warehouse, data center, laboratory, manufacturing unit or any other facility of the like. Electrical equipment, the presence of combustible liquids and the operation of machinery round the clock pose specific hazards to every type of organization mentioned above. However, while it is essential to install smoke detectors and alarm systems, using the correct kind of fire extinguisher might be decisive in case of fire emergencies.
CO2 fire extinguishers are often regarded as one of the most efficient types of fire extinguishers when it comes to dealing with electrical and flammable liquid fires because of their particular feature of leaving nothing but empty air behind after being activated.
What is a CO2 Fire Extinguisher?
A CO2 (carbon dioxide) fire extinguisher contains compressed carbon dioxide gas that is released upon activation and replaces oxygen surrounding the fire and cooling its material source.
Unlike the powder or foam fire extinguishers, a CO2 fire extinguisher leaves no residue behind. Thus, this type of fire extinguisher can be used in the case of protection of delicate equipment, such as:
- Electrical control panels
- Computer servers
- Data centers
- Laboratory equipment
- Medical devices
- Industrial machinery
The Need for CO2 Extinguishers for Commercial and Industrial Premises
Suitable for Electrical Fires
Commercial premises depend largely on electrical infrastructure. Overload, malfunction, short circuit, and defective wiring can all lead to electrical fires.
Using water-based fire extinguisher on live electrical apparatus increases the risk of electric shock. CO2 extinguishers are non-conductors, thus a safer option when fighting electrical fires.
Protects Expensive Equipment from Damage
Today’s enterprises spend a considerable amount of money on computers, automation, CNC machinery, networking hardware, and control equipment.
A powder fire extinguisher might put out the fire, but it leaves corrosive residue that damages the electronics. CO2 extinguishers deliver clean gas that dissipates quickly, thereby preserving valuable equipment.
Suitable for Fires Involving Flammable Liquids
Industrial plants have large quantities of: Paints, Solvents, Oils, Chemicals, Fuel and
Lubricants.
They all can catch fire very quickly if exposed to any source of heat or spark. CO2 fire extinguishers effectively fight Class B fires involving flammable liquids due to rapid oxygen displacement around the flames.
Ideal Places for CO2 Fire Extinguisher Placement
Carbon dioxide extinguishers are recommended for use in areas with electrical appliances and flammable liquids, such as:
- Office server rooms
- Electric substations
- Factories
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Chemical processing plants
- Printing machines
- Laboratories
- Control rooms
- Telecommunication stations
- Kitchens with electrical appliances
Keeping the right fire extinguisher nearby helps in reacting faster to the hazards.
Simple To Use In Case Of Emergency Situations
Emergency fire situations usually cause panic, requiring instant action on the user’s part. This is why CO2 fire extinguishers are designed in such a way that allows trained people to act quickly in emergencies.
The following steps are helpful when using the PASS technique:
- Pull the safety pin.
- Point the nozzle towards the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the handle.
- Sweep the nozzle from left to right.
Regular employee training helps in improving their efficiency while dealing with emergencies.
Maintenance Is As Important As Fire Extinguishers Themselves
A good fire extinguisher is of no use if it is not properly maintained. Regular inspection of the extinguishers installed in commercial premises helps in ensuring that:
- Pressure levels are adequate.
- There is no physical damage.
- Safety seals are intact.
- Expiry dates are checked.
- Fire extinguishers can be reached easily in case of emergency.
- Fire extinguishers are refilled once used.
Finding a Trusted Fire Safety Partner
While obtaining good-quality fire safety equipment is one of the key aspects of fire protection, another important aspect is cooperation with professionals who will help you install fire safety devices and provide maintenance, refills, and fire safety audits.
New Guard Fire offers a wide array of fire protection products from CO2 fire extinguishers to safety audits, annual maintenance, and refilling to help commercial and industrial organizations create a safer working environment.
Conclusion
Fire safety cannot be neglected by commercial and industrial facilities. Electrical equipment, machines, and flammable materials pose additional hazards that can only be protected against using special fire safety equipment such as CO2 extinguishers.
Installing CO2 extinguishers and giving your employees some basic fire safety education is one of the ways to minimize fire hazards and make your workplace safer.
