Types of extinguishers

An "A-B-C" fire extinguisher can be used on all types of fires. Other types of extinguishers work only on certain types of fires. Check the chart below to see extinguishers that work on various types of fires.

Monthly inspection requirement

Departments must assign an individual to inspect monthly the extinguishers in or adjacent to the department's facilities. Recommended personnel include:

• Labs and shops: Area Safety Coordinators
• Administrative areas: Department Safety Coordinators

Use the Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist to perform a monthly inspection of your department's extinguisher(s).

Testing

All extinguishers need to be serviced and tested every 6 years and also when:

• The fire extinguisher has been used
• The pin has been pulled
• The gauge is not in the green (or proper pressure area)

Extinguishers must be inspected by a licensed fire extinguisher maintenance contractor once a year in the intervening 5 years.

Service and placement

To request service, additional extinguishers, or replacements, contact:

• On campus: See How to Request Facilities Management Services
• At UCSD Medical Center-Hillcrest:
  Facilities Engineering Help Desk, (619) 543-6454
• At UCSD Medical Center-Thornton:
  Facilities Engineering Help Desk, (858) 657-6400

Fire extinguisher training

Fire extinguisher training is available to all employees.

• If you work with hazardous materials or high-risk fire processes, contact EH&S Fire & Life Safety, (858) 822-7515, for training.
• If you work in a low-risk fire environment, learn about using fire extinguishers by doing the following:
• Attend Fire Extinguisher Training via Enrollment Central
• Borrow and view the "Using Portable Fire Extinguishers" video from the EH&S safety training manager, (858) 822-5974
• Read How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Questions about fire safety at UC San Diego? Contact EH&S Fire & Life Safety, (858) 822-7515.