Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers – A Comprehensive Guide

Fire safety is a critical concern within commercial environments, and having the right fire extinguisher on hand can make all the difference in a fire suppression emergency. Among the various types of fire extinguishers available, the dry powder fire extinguisher is one of the most versatile and widely used.

This guide will provide an in-depth look at dry powder fire extinguishers, including their uses, benefits, limitations, and how to operate them safely. Whether you’re a business owner or responsible for fire safety in the workplace, understanding the role of dry powder fire extinguishers is essential.
 

Understanding Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

A dry powder fire extinguisher is designed to tackle multiple classes of fire, making it a popular choice for industrial sites, commercial buildings, and vehicles. These extinguishers work by discharging a fine powder that blankets the fire, cutting off the oxygen supply and disrupting the chemical reaction needed to sustain combustion.

Unlike other extinguisher types, such as water, foam, or CO2 extinguishers, dry powder is particularly effective in environments where different types of fire risks exist. It is often referred to as a multi-purpose extinguisher, ABC fire extinguisher, or dry chemical fire extinguisher due to its ability to suppress Class A, B, and C fires.
 

Identifying A Dry Powder Extinguisher

To comply with fire safety regulations, fire extinguishers must be clearly labelled with their type and the fire classes they are suitable for. Dry powder extinguishers are easily identifiable by their distinctive blue label, which prominently displays the word ‘POWDER’ in white lettering.

In addition to the label, information signs are typically placed nearby to indicate the location and appropriate use of the extinguisher. It is crucial that staff, residents, or workers in an environment with fire extinguishers are familiar with their locations and how to use them in case of an emergency.
  

Appropriate Use Of Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

Dry powder extinguishers are suitable for a wide range of fires, including:

• Class A Fires: Fires involving solid combustible materials such as wood, paper, textiles, and plastics.
• Class B Fires: Fires caused by flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, paint, and spirits.
• Class C Fires: Fires caused by flammable gases such as propane, butane, methane, and acetylene.
• Electrical fires: effective for use on electrical fires involving equipment up to 1,000v.

Due to their ability to tackle different fire types, they are commonly found in:

• Industrial facilities where flammable materials are handled.
• Petrol station forecourts where flammable liquids are present.
• Construction sites where fire risks are diverse.
• Vehicles, including lorries, vans, and fuel tankers, to mitigate fire hazards on the road.
    

Specialist Dry Powder Extinguishers

In addition to standard ABC powder fire extinguishers, there are specialist dry powder extinguishers designed for Class D fires, which involve combustible metals such as:

• M28 Dry Powder Extinguishers: suitable for fires involving metals such as sodium, magnesium, and aluminium (in powdered form).
• L2 Dry Powder Extinguishers: designed for metal fires, including those involving lithium, making them ideal for use in industries dealing with lithium batteries or metal production.
    

When Not to Use a Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher

While powder extinguishers are highly versatile, there are some scenarios where they should NOT be used:

• Class F Fires: Fires involving cooking oils and fats (such as chip pan fires) require a wet chemical extinguisher.
• High-Voltage Electrical Fires: Dry powder extinguishers are effective for electrical fires up to 1,000v. For higher voltages, a CO2 extinguisher is preferable.
• Enclosed Spaces: Discharging a dry powder extinguisher in a confined area can create a thick dust cloud, reducing visibility and posing an inhalation risk.
• Delicate Electrical Equipment: The fine powder residue can be damaging to sensitive electronics, making CO2 extinguishers a better option for server rooms or IT equipment.
         

Operating a Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher

Using a powder extinguisher follows a simple four-step process, often summarised by the PASS technique:

1. Pull the safety pin to break the tamper seal.
2. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
3. Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing powder.
4. Sweep the nozzle from side to side until the fire is completely out.
          

For specific types of fires:

• For solid and flowing liquid fires, aim at the base.
• For standing liquid fires, direct the extinguisher towards the edge of the flames.
• For gas or electrical fires, if safe, switch off the source and direct the extinguisher straight at the flames.
         

The Benefits of a Powder Fire Extinguisher

A powder fire extinguisher offers several advantages:

• Multi-purpose use, covering Class A, B, and C fires.
• Fast-acting suppression, providing an immediate response.
• No water damage, making it useful where water-based extinguishers would be inappropriate.
• Lightweight and portable, making it easy to store in vehicles and workplaces.
         

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance & Compliance

For businesses, ensuring fire extinguishers are maintained is a legal requirement under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This includes:

• Regular visual inspections to check for signs of damage or discharge.
• Annual servicing by a qualified fire safety professional.
• Recharging or replacing extinguishers after use, even if only partially discharged.

Employers must also ensure staff are trained in fire safety procedures and know how to operate extinguishers correctly.

Protect Your Property With Dry Powder Extinguishers From Johnson Controls

A dry powder fire extinguisher is a vital fire safety tool for tackling multiple fire types, particularly in environments with mixed risks. However, understanding its proper use, limitations, and maintenance requirements is crucial for ensuring effective fire protection. By equipping your premises or vehicle with the correct fire extinguishers and ensuring regular servicing, you can enhance safety and be prepared for any fire emergency.

At Johnson Controls, we provide comprehensive fire protection solutions, ensuring you have the right extinguishers for your needs. Our services include:

• Fire Extinguisher Solutions and Service
  No matter the challenge, we ensure you have the right number and types of extinguishers at your disposal from our huge range of solutions.
   
• Fire Extinguishers
  Our portable fire extinguishers give a first line of defence whilst remaining cost-effective, reliable, and essential for a wide range of fire types.
   
• Design Services
  We have a qualified team of Design Engineers creating exceptional fire protection systems in accordance with recognised national & international standards.
   
• Fire Suppression
  From sprinklers to extinguishers, our range of fire suppression systems provides advanced life safety solutions for all types of facilities and locations.