Fire Extinguisher Types and Maintenance

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 to obtain a 4A:60B:C extinguisher.
Location
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
- 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.