Dry powder fire extinguishers are essential for localised fire suppression and tackling small fire hazards effectively. However, given the various types of extinguishers available for different fire situations, it's crucial to understand how to use them safely. In this guide, we will focus on the dry powder fire extinguisher, one of the options within our extensive range.
  

Understanding Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

Dry powder fire extinguishers create a barrier and cut off the oxygen supply, interrupting the fire's chemical reaction.

Cutting off the oxygen supply helps reduce the fire's severity and minimises the chances of reignition, as fire requires oxygen to sustain itself.

As the name suggests, dry powder extinguishers utilise dry powder instead of CO2, foam, water, or other materials. Commonly referred to as multi-purpose fire extinguishers, ABC fire extinguishers, or dry chemical fire extinguishers, they are very practical pieces of kit.
 

Identifying A Dry Powder Extinguisher

Health and safety regulations require fire extinguishers to be accompanied by information signs identifying their type and suitable fire classes. When looking for a dry powder extinguisher, look for the distinctive blue label on the extinguisher itself, which will prominently display 'POWDER' in bold, white writing.
 

Appropriate Use Of Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

Standard dry powder fire extinguishers are suitable for the following types of fires:

• Class A Fires: those involving solids such as paper, textiles and wood
• Class B Fires: those involving liquids like diesel, paint and petrol
• Class C Fires: those involving gas substances such as butane and methane
• Electrical fires with equipment up to 1000v

Dry powder fire extinguishers are often found in workshops, petrol station forecourts and construction sites. They’re a recommended fire suppression tool for all vehicles, especially fuel tankers, thanks to their suitability for fires involving flammable liquids and gases.

The most popular type of dry powder fire extinguisher is the ABC extinguisher, which contains mono-ammonium phosphate powder and is suitable for suppressing Class A, B and C fires.

It is important to note that specialist dry powder fire extinguishers are specifically designed for use on flammable metals. These are the M28 and L2 dry powder extinguishers, and they are suitable for the following fires:

• M28: Effective against Class D metal fires involving sodium, magnesium and aluminium, usually in the form of machined swarf or powder
• L2: Also effective against Class D fires, but can also be used to suppress lithium fires
    

Inappropriate Use Of Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

Dry powder extinguishers should not be used in the following situations:

• Class F Fires: those involving cooking oil (needs a Wet Chemical Extinguisher)
• Electrical fires with equipment over 1000v
• Fires that are located in enclosed areas
• Flammable metal fires (unless using a specialist M28 or L2 dry powder fire extinguisher)

It’s also worth noting that, whilst dry powder fire extinguishers can be used for small electrical fires, the powder leaves a residue that can sometimes be harmful to sensitive electrical devices. As a result, CO2 fire extinguishers are worth considering if you are worried about your electronics.
  

Using Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers For Fire Suppression

Operating a dry powder fire extinguisher is as straightforward as most commercial fire suppression products. Once you pull the safety pin, squeeze the lever to discharge the extinguisher.

In the event of a fire, you may not have time to read the label, so familiarising yourself with how to use a dry powder fire extinguisher beforehand is essential.

• For solids and flowing liquid fires, aim at the fire's base.
• For standing liquid fires, target the edge of the flames
• For gas or electrical fires, if possible, switch off the source (especially for gas fires) and direct the extinguisher straight at the flames
   

Protect Your Property With Dry Powder Extinguishers From Johnson Controls

For more detailed information on dry powder fire extinguishers and our complete range of fire suppression products, including other types of extinguishers, take a look online here.