What are the different type of fire extinguishers used for different type of fires. Describe
in brief working of fire extinguisher used for ‘electrical fire’?
Ans The types of extinguishers normally used are:
• Soda acid type
• Foam type
• Dry powder type
• Carbon dioxide type &
• Halol (chloro bromo methane) type
Soda acid type of extinguisher is suitable for only class 'A' for eg. fires in ordinary combustible
materials such as wood paper etc. It can be used in such areas as office rooms.
Foam type is suitable for oil fires (class 'B') and can be used in oil storage areas.
Both these types are not suitable for electrical apparatus.
Dry powder type, CO2 type & chloro bromo methane type are suitable for classes 'A' & 'B' as
well as Class 'F' (electrical apparatus) fires and should be provided in adequate quantities in areas
housing electrical apparatus such as switch-gear rooms.
Dry powder type equipment being relatively cheaper can be used in all less important areas and
CO2 type apparatus must be used near more important equipment. In addition to wall mounted
equipment one or two wheeled portable apparatus of CO2 and dry powder type equipment
depending on the size of the substation should be placed at strategic spots from where it can
be readily taken to affected areas. Halol gas system is preferred for the protection of control
rooms. All fire protection equipment shall be covered by a regular and strict maintenance
and test routine.
Portable equipment should be charged at specified intervals and checked regularly for loss of
charge, damage etc. Records of all tests and checks must be maintained.