Basic Overview Fire Protection Fire Extinguishers Pro Tech

Basic Overview Fire Protection (Fire Extinguishers) Pro Tech Solution Services LLC 1

• • • Codes, Standards and NFPA 10 Extinguisher requirements, markings symbols and ratings Portable Extinguisher hardware concepts and designations Fire Extinguisher agent characteristics and properties Product lines, designations, literature, bulletins and manuals • Service equipment, materials and requirements • Examination 2

Extinguisher Codes and Standards • • • Federal Codes (CFR’s – Codes of Federal Regulations) NFPA Standards (National Fire Protection Association) Building Codes State, County, City and Local Codes AHJ (authority Having Jurisdiction) 3

Most Commonly References Used 4

Extinguisher Service Requirements • NFPA 10 • • Chapter 3 Definitions Chapter 4 Selection Chapter 5 Distribution Chapter 6 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance • Chapter 7 Installation • Chapter 8 Hydrostatic Testing • CFR 29 OSHA • • Scope and Application General Requirements Selection and Distribution Inspection, Testing & Maintenance • Hydrostatic Testing • Training and Education 5

Portable Extinguishers Protection Objectives • • Occupancy/ Structure Protection Life Safety Equipment/ Process Protection Business Continuity 6

Portable Fire Extinguishers Agent, Hardware & Fire Test Standards • • ANSI/UL 8 ANSI/UL 154 ANSI/UL 299 ANSI/UL 626 ANSI/UL 1093 ANSI/UL 2129 ANSI/UL 711 Foam & Wet Chemical Carbon Dioxide Dry Chemical Water Halogenated Halocarbon Fire Testing Criteria 7

Portable Fire Extinguishers Nameplate Manifest Approval & Listing * Use of any unauthorized parts or extinguishing agents can void product listing. * Only listed and approved fire extinguishers can be used to meet and fulfill code requirements. 8

Portable Fire Extinguishers Front Operating Nameplates * Contain Necessary Operating Instructions. * Display Use Code Fire Symbol Markings. * No Field Service Tags or Other Labels are to be placed on the Front. 9

Portable Fire Extinguishers 5 Fire Classifications & Symbology Class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials, such as cloth, wood, paper, rubber, and many plastics. Extinguishers with an A rating are designed to extinguish fires involving these ordinary combustible materials. Class B fires involve flammable and combustible liquids such as gasoline, alcohol, oil-based paints, lacquers. Therefore, extinguishers with a B rating are designed to extinguish fires involving flammable and combustible liquids. Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment. Extinguishers with a C rating are designed for use with fires involving energized electrical equipment. Note: Do not attempt to extinguish a fire involving flammable gas unless there is reasonable assurance the source of fuel can be promptly shut off. In fact, if the only fuel burning is the leaking gas, the best method for extinguishing the fire is to shut off the fuel supply. Class D fires involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. Extinguishers with a D rating are designed to extinguish fires involving combustible metals. Note: Common extinguishing agents may react with a combustible metal fire causing the severity of the fire to increase. The most common method for extinguishing a combustible metal fire is to cover the burning material with a dry powder, such as sand, which will not react with the material. Class K fires involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. Extinguishers with a K rating are designed to extinguish fires involving vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats utilized in commercial cooking appliances. Note: Extinguishers with a K rating are normally required where deep-fryers and/or griddles are utilized to prepare large quantities of food. An example would be a commercial kitchen similar to those found in restaurants and cafeterias. 10

Multipurpose Extinguishers: Most portable extinguishers are rated for use with more than one classification of fire. For example, an extinguisher with a BC rating is suitable for use with fires involving flammable liquids and energized electrical equipment. An extinguisher with an ABC rating is suitable for use with fires involving ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids and energized electrical equipment. An extinguisher that is rated for use with multiple hazards should include a symbol for each hazard type. 11

Class “A” Ratings Numerical Class “A” ratings based on preestablished units of wood fires. Ratings range from 1 A to 40 A Fire tests only utilize wood material; – Wood shavings fire – Wood panels fires – 1” boards/strips – Wood crib fires – 2” lumber 12

Rating Weight of shavings Test area . 1 A 6 lbs 2’ 10” x 5’ 8” 2 A 12 lbs 4’ 0” x 8’ 0” 3 A 18 lbs 4’ 11” x 9’ 9 1/2 “ 4 A 24 lbs 6’ 0” x 10’ 8” 6 A 36 lbs 6’ 11” x Rating Panel size Fuel used 1 A 8’ 0” x 8’ 0” 1 gal 2 A 10’ 0” x 10’ 0” 2 gal 20 lbs 3 A 12’ 0” x 12’ 0” 3 gal 30 lbs 4 A 14’ 0” x 14’ 0” 4 gal 40 lbs 6 A 17’ 0” x 17’ 0” 6 gal 60 lbs Rating Members Weight of shavings . 10 lbs Size in inches Arrangement 10 layers of 5 . 1 A 50 2 x 20 2 A 70 2 x 25 5/8 13 layers of 6 3 A 98 2 x 30 3/4 14 layers of 7 4 A 120 2 x 33 3/8 15 layers of 8 6 A 153 2 x 38 3/8 17 layers of 9 10 A 209 2 x 47 1/2 19 layers of 11 20 A 160 2 x 4 x 62 3/4 10 layers of 15 on edge 30 A 192 2 x 4 x 74 5/8 10 layers of 18 on edge 40 A 224 2 x 4 x 87 1/8 10 layers of 21 on edge 13

Class “B” Ratings Numerical Class “B” ratings based on liquid surface area of square test pans and minimum effective discharge times. Ratings range from 1 B to 640 B Fire tests only utilize Heptane fuel; 14

Class “B” Extinguisher ratings and fire test requirements Fire Rating Indoor fires Outdoor fires Minimum Test Pan size Heptane Discharge Time Square Feet Area Fuel Required 1 -B 8 seconds 2½ 3 ¾ gallons 2 -B 8 seconds 5 6 ¾ gallons 5 -B 8 seconds 12 ½ 15 ½ gallons 10 -B 8 seconds 25 31 gallons 20 -B 8 seconds 50 65 gallons 30 -B 11 seconds 75 95 gallons 40 -B 13 seconds 100 125 gallons 60 -B 17 seconds 150 190 gallons 80 -B 20 seconds 200 250 gallons 120 -B 26 seconds 300 375 gallons 160 -B 31 seconds 400 500 gallons 240 -B 40 seconds 600 750 gallons 320 -B 48 seconds 800 1000 gallons 480 -B 63 seconds 1200 640 -B 75 seconds 1600 1500 gallons 15 2000 gallons

Class “C” Ratings Class “C” Fire Test Criteria • • • Pass/Fail Criteria set up 100, 000 Volts 60 Hertz Alternating current Current UL/ANSI-711 test criteria only evaluates a 10 inch gap of the discharge stream 16

Class “D” Ratings Class “C” Fire Test Criteria • • • Pass/ Fail Criteria Recommended agent to materials ratios provided Specific pre-established metal fire configurations -Magnesium -Sodium -Potassium -Sodium Potassium alloys Burn at very high temperatures. Extinguisher agents used on other types of fires should not be used on Class “D” fires. 17

Class “K” Ratings Class “K” Fire Test Criteria • • Pass/ Fail Criteria High Efficiency Gas commercial deep fat fryers 80 pounds of low/fat media heated to auto ignition (approximately 685 degrees) 1 minute pre-burn No intermittent unit discharge permitted No discharge splashing Monitored for 20 -minutes to ensure against re-ignition 18

Portable Fire Extinguishers • 1 to 350 pound agent capacity • 6 basic agent types • Disposable & rechargeable • Hand portable & wheeled units • Four separate design principles 19

Four Basic Design Principles Self expelling Stored pressure Pressure transfer Regulated 20

Wheeled Fire Extinguishers Designed to fit through 36 inch doorways • • Various wheel sizes/types Longer ranges Longer discharge times Greater agent capacity 21

Portable Fire Extinguishers • • Dry Chemical & Dry Powders (Solids) Water Based (Liquids) Carbon Dioxide (Gaseous) Halogenated (Vaporizing Liquids) 22

Fire Extinguisher Services Inspection • Frequency: When initially placed in service and thereafter at approximately 30 -day intervals. • NFPA-10 (Definition): A “quick check” that a fire extinguisher is in it’s designed place, that it is has not been activated or tampered with, and that there is no obvious physical damage or condition to prevent its operation. 23

Portable Fire Extinguishers Portable extinguishers are the first line of defense against a small fire. Being certain that they are properly located, charged and in good working condition may be the difference in the outcome of a emergency fire situation. 24

Fire Extinguisher Services Maintenance • Frequency: Intervals of not more than 1 year, at the time of hydrostatic testing or whenever specifically indicated by an inspection discrepancy. • NFPA-10 (Definition): A thorough examination of the fire extinguisher. It is intended to give maximum assurance that the fire extinguisher will operate effectively and safely and to determine if physical damage or condition will prevent it operation, if any repair or replacement is necessary, and if hydrostatic testing or internal maintenance is required. 25

27 -point Inspection 1. Check that unit is properly hung with the proper manufacturer’s hanger. 2. Remove the extinguisher from it hanger. 3. Check the gauge pressure. 4. Check condition of the gauge and its compatibility with the extinguisher. 5. Check the weight of the extinguisher. 6. Check the last hydrostatic test date, is it within code requirements. 7. Check the last 6 -year maintenance inspection, if applicable. 8. Check the valve and shell for damage or corrosion. 9. Remove the hose and inspect it for cracks or splits. 10. Check the hose threads for signs of wear. 11. Check the condition of discharge horn. 12. Check for obstructions that interfere with accessibility of the extinguisher. 13. Break the extinguisher seal and remove the locking pin. 14. Check the upper and lower handles. 15. Replace the locking pin and reseal the extinguisher. 16. Check the valve opening for powder or any foreign matter. 17. Clean the extinguisher shell with spray cleaner. 18. Return the extinguisher to its proper position. 19. Check the condition of the hose/ horn retention band at the side of the extinguisher. 20. Check that the unit’s classification is properly identified with the appropriate decal. 26

27 -point inspection (cont. ) 21. Check that the operating instructions are clean and legible. 22. Tag the extinguisher properly. 23. Survey the hazard area to verify that the unit classification corresponds with the hazard. 24. Check that the unit is properly located within the normal path of travel and at the proper height. 25. Check that the unit is visible and unobstructed. 26. Replace the extinguisher on its hanger. 27. Compile a complete report of the inspection, explaining any deficiencies and recommending corrective action to be taken in accordance with recognized codes for care and maintenance. 27

Fire Extinguisher Services Definitions Six Year Internal Maintenance: Every 6 years stored pressure fire extinguisher that require 12 year hydrostatic test shall be emptied and subjected to the internal examination procedures, as detailed in the manufacturers service manual and this standard. Recharging: The replacement of the extinguishing agent (also includes the expellant for certain types of fire extinguishers) Service: Performing maintenance, recharging or hydrostatic testing of the fire extinguisher. Twelve Year Hydrostatic Test: Pressure testing of the extinguisher to verify its strength against unwanted rupture. 28

Fire Extinguisher Services Hydrostatic Test Requirements • Frequency: At intervals not exceeding those specified in table 8. 3. 1. The hydrostatic test shall be conducted within the calendar year of the specified test interval. Anytime a fire extinguisher shows evidence of dents, mechanical injury or corrosion to the extent as to indicated weakness, it shall be condemned or re-tested. • NFPA-10 (Definition): Pressure testing of the extinguisher to verify its strength against unwanted rupture. 29

Fire Extinguisher Services Directives 7. 1. 2. 2: Persons performing maintenance and recharging of fire extinguishers shall be trained and shall have available the appropriate manufacturers servicing manual, the correct tools, recharging materials, lubricants and manufacturers replacement parts listed for use in the fire extinguishers. 4. 4. 2: Any fire extinguisher that can no longer be serviced in accordance with the manufacturers maintenance manual is considered obsolete and shall be removed from service. 7. 4. 1. 2: When recharging is performed, the recommendations of the manufacture shall be followed 8. 1. 2. 1: Hydrostatic testing shall be performed by persons who are trained in pressure testing procedures and safeguards complying with 7. 1. 2: and who have testing equipment, facilities and appropriate manufacturers service manual available. 30

Extinguisher Service Misconceptions Owners manual vs. Service manual • Owners manuals with basic information included with every fire extinguisher • Service manuals containing detailed information is also prepared and available upon request. 31

Extinguisher Service Misconceptions Extinguisher Service Equipment Requirements • Proper service equipment often represents a substantial investment. • Special tools and adapters are often necessary. 32

Extinguisher Service Misconceptions Gauge inspection vs. Gauge maintenance Inspection: 1. 2. Needle in green operable area No obvious physical damage Maintenance: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Needle in green operable area Closely examined for damage Operating pressure verified Correct Extinguishing agent type Verify valve material compatibility 33

Extinguisher Service Misconceptions All Extinguisher hangers are the same 34

Extinguisher Service Misconceptions Proper lubricants are required • Various Lubricants may have detrimental effects upon certain metal and non-metal surfaces. • Various lubricants may impair or prevent the properation of components at low temperatures. 35

Extinguisher Service Misconceptions No use of additives in water based extinguishers • Only agents and additives specifically identified upon the extinguishers original “listed” nameplate should be utilized. • Various Stainless steel cylinder material compatibility problems are typically not visually evident. 36

Extinguisher Service Misconceptions Extinguisher cylinder exam requirement vary • Fire extinguishers utilize various types of cylinders constructed to either ANSI/UL or DOT? CTC specifications, which have different periodic re-test intervals and requirements 37

Extinguisher Service Records Local tagging requirements may vary • • • Monthly Annual Maintenance Recharge 6 year labels Verification collars Hydrostatic test labels • Services Records & Documentation 38

Wheeled Service Misconceptions Annual dead set & minimum flow checks on regulators • No field adjustments permitted on wheeled regulators • Must use flow chamber to get accurate readings • Ensure cylinder hand wheel fully opened for flow test • Regulator should be positioned downward • Dead-set test should also verify low pressure hose assembly. • Dead-set = 250 psi (+/- 10 psi) • Min flow = 140 psi 39

Wheeled Service Misconceptions Verify cylinder pressure • Use approved Dead-head test gauge set up to verify cylinder pressure readings. • Ensure pressure meets minimum recommended adjusted for temperature Example 1200 psi = - 40 F 1500 psi = +70 F 40

Wheeled Service Misconceptions Verify agent hoses are clear Ensure dry chemical wheeled units are properly blown down after each use. Avoid plugging agent hoses after blow down, by allowing unit to sit for a minimum of five minutes with the nozzle open before standing it back up. 41