Fire Extinguisher Types and Maintenance
Last Updated: November 1, 2024 10:08:54 AM PDT
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Learn about types of fire extinguishers, maintenance requirements and how to get training.
Types
An "A-B-C" fire extinguisher can be used on all fires. Other types of extinguishers work only on a certain class of fire. Check the chart below to match extinguishers to a particular class of fire.
Class of fire | Types of extinguishers to use |
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Class A: Ordinary combustible materials, such as wood, cloth, paper, etc. |
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Class B: Flammable liquids, such as oil, gasoline, kerosene, etc. |
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Class C: Presence of energized electrical circuits (e.g., electronic motors, electrical wiring, etc.) |
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Class D: Reactive metals |
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Class K: Oils and fats |
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The minimum standard for fire extinguishers on campus is 4A:60B:C. This type of extinguisher is designed for use on ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids and energized electrical fires of moderate to high intensity. Contact Facilities Management under the Service and Replacement section below to obtain a 4A:60B:C extinguisher.
Location
The campus standard for fire extinguishers requires that there must be an ABC extinguisher located within 75 feet of travel in any direction and a minimum of one extinguisher within the lab area and must have a minimal ABC rating of 4A:60B:C. For laboratories and kitchens, specialty extinguishers may be required in addition to the ABC extinguisher.
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 replacement
To request service, additional extinguishers (e.g., 4A:60B:C extinguisher), or replacements, contact:
- On campus: See How to Request Facilities Management Services
- At UC San Diego Medical Center-Hillcrest:
Facilities Engineering Help Desk, (619) 543-6454 - At UC San Diego Medical Center-Thornton:
Facilities Engineering Help Desk, (858) 657-6400
Training
Take the mystery and fear out of when and how to use a fire extinguisher with training.
- See Fire Extinguisher Training for options.
For more information, contact EH&S Fire & Life Safety, (858) 534-3659.
Notice: In case of fire, your first responsibility is to escape unharmed and sound the alarm. Use a fire extinguisher only if you have been trained to use one and you have a clear exit path behind you.