wove sv puepuerg poouasojes Krewitig eiensny Jo epoo Bulpiing ie AS 2444—2001 Australian Standard™ Portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets—Selection and locationCommittee FP-003, Fire Extinguishers. It This Australian Standard was prepared by standards Australia on 26 October 2001 was approved on behalf of the Couneil of and published on 9 November 2001, The Following interests are represented on Committee FP-003: ‘Australasian Fire Authorities Council Australian Association of Certification Bodies Australian Building Codes Board Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Australian Institute of Building Surveyors Consumer and Business Affairs Vietoria Department of Defence Fire Protection Association Australia Fire Protection Association New Zealand Fire Trainers Association of Australia Institution of Fire Engineers New Zealand Fire Equipment Association Telstra Corporation : The Treasury. Consumer Affairs Division WorkCover New South Wales if Standards up-to-date Standards are living documents which reflect progress in science, technology and systems. To maintain their currency. all Standards are periodically reviewed. ar new editions are published. Between editions, amendments. may he issued. Standards may also be withdrawn. It is important that readers assure themselves they are using a current Standard, which should include any amendments which ‘may have been published since the Standard Was purchased. Detailed information about Standards can be found by visiting the Standards Australia web site at www.standards.com.au and looking up the relevant Standard inthe on-line catalogue, Alternatively, the printed Catalogue provides information current at 1 January each, year, and the monthly magazine, The .lustralian Standard, has a full listing of fevisions and amendments published each month. We also welcome suggestions for improvement in our Standards, and especially encourage readers to nolify us immediately of any apparent inaccuracies. oF fmbiguties. Contact us via email at mail@standards.com.au, oF write 10 the Chief Exccutive, ‘Standards Australia International Ltd, GPO Box 5420, Sydn NSW 2001. This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 97030.AS 2444—2001 Australian Standard™ Portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets—Selection and location COrinated as MP 261972 and AS 24441081, Previous econ AS 2444 —1095, ‘Shah ection 2008 ‘COPYRIGHT © Standes Austalia International Allright are reserved. No part ofthis work may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any ‘means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying. without the wallen permssion of te publisher. Published by Standards Australia iterationa td (GPO Box 5420, Srney, NSW 2001, AustraliaAs 24442001 2 PREFACE This Standard was prepared by the Joint Standards Australia/ Standards New Zealand Committee FP-003, Fire Extinguishers, to supersede AS 2444—1995, This Standard is the result of a consensus among Australian and New Zealand representatives on the Joint Committee to produce it as an Australian Standard. Criteria for the selection of extinguishers are based on extinguisher classification. The requirements for the location and distribution of extinguishers take account of extinguisher classification and rating, travel distance and floor area and hazard classification, For some time it has been a requirement that portable fire extinguishers carry a classification and rating which indicates the size of fire against which the extinguisher has been successfully tested. Certain regulations require fire extinguishers to comply with the relevant Australian Standard. Ina number of areas, regulations nominate extinguishers of specitic types and sizes for certain applications. In other circumstances, building configuration or occupancy may preclude adherence to travel distances specified in the Standard, In this event, the extinguishers may require to be grouped in banks at appropriate intervals and locations, e.g hydrant points, It should be noted that extinguishers with body-stamped dates from 1976 to 1981 (inclusive) may be found to be labelled with either a C or (E) classification denoting suitability for use on electrical hazards, e.g. 2A:10B:C. Such extinguishers were produced to comply with earlier editions of AS 1850, and may be selected and located in accordance with this Standard With the introduction of a C classification for fires involving 1 extinguishers should be relabelled to prevent confusion. lammable gases, these ‘This Standard also includes a section on the selection and location of fire blankets manufactured to the requirements of AS/NZS 3504. Fire blankets. The term ‘informative’ has been used in this Standard to define the application of the appendix to which it applies. An ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and guidance.3 As 24442001 CONTENTS Page SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL, iti SCOPES 4 1.2 APPLICATION... 4 1.3. REFERENCED AND RELATED DOCUMENTS. 4 14 DEFINITIONS. ee os SECTION 2 SELECTION OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS, 2D GENERAL se i 7 2.2 CLASSIFICATION AND RATING - 7 SECTION 3. LOCATION OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS GENERAL... ita EXTINGUISHER LOCATION - EXTINGUISHER LOCATION SIGNS. VISIBILITY, . SUPPORT: rnc CABINET OR ENCLOSURE RECORD OF TYPE AND DIS! FIRE POINTS... ENVIRONMENT... SECTION 4 DISTRIBUTION OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS IN BUILDINGS 4. GENERAL cron . ee eae nts 4.2. CLASS A FIRE RISKS. 15 4.3. CLASS B FIRE RISKS. : oe 1S 4.4 COMPLEMENTARY PROTECTION... ” SECTION 5 SELECTION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS IN VEHICLES AND SMALL CRAFT GENERAL... : - ou IB 5.2 REMOTE AREAS si 5.3 ACCESSIBILITY... 18: 4 SELECTION FACTORS... 18 SECTION 6 SELECTION AND LOCATION OF FIRE BLANKETS 6.1 GENERAL 20 62 SELECTION... 20 63 LOCATION... pee 20 64 FIRE BLANKET LOCATION SIGNS 20 6.5 MOUNTING oe 20 APPENDICES. ‘A FACTORS AFFECTING THE SELECTION OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS... . i me B_ SELECTION OF EXTINGUISHANTAs 24442001 4 STANDARDS AUSTRALIA Australian Standard Portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets—Selection and location SECTION | SCOPE AND GENERAL 11 SCOPE. This Standard sets out erite requirements for their applicatio for the selection of portable fire extinguishers and specifies location and distribution. It includes a section which sets out criteria for the selection of fire blankets and specifies requirements for their location and distribution, NOTE: This Standard presumes a basic level of user competence and the adequate maintenance of the equipment in accordance with AS 1851.1 1.2 APPLICATION This Standard will be referenced in the Building Code of Australia by way of BCA ‘Amendment 10 to be published by | January 2002, thereby superseding AS 2444—1995, hich will be withdrawn 12 months from the date of publication of this Standard, NOTE: The BCA reference applies only to Sections 1. 2, 3, and 4 ofthis Standard, 1.3. REFERENCED AND RELATED DOCUMENTS 1.3.1 Referenced documents ‘The following documents are referred to in this Standard: AS 1603 Automatic fire detection and alarm systems, 1603.5 Part S: Manual call points 1851 Maintenance of fire protection equipment 1851.1 Part I: Portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets 2118 Automatic fire sprinkler systems (series) 2700 Colour standards for general purposes 4214 Gaseous fire extinguisher systems (series) ASINZS 1841 Portable fire extinguishers. I841.1 Part 1: General requirements 1850 Portable fire extinguishers—Classification, rating and performance testing 3000 Electrical Installations (known as the Austratian’New Zealand Wiring Rules). 3504 Fire blankets 1.3.2 Related documents Attention is drawn to the following related documents: ASINZS 1841 Portable fire extinguishers 1841.1 Part I: General requirements © Standards Australia wo standards com 241ASINZS 1841.2 Part2: | Water type 1841.3 Part 3: Wet chemical type 1841.4 Part 4: Foam type 1841.5 Part S: Powder type 1841.6 Part 6: Carbon dioxide type 1841.7 Part 7: Vaporizing-liquid type 1841.8 Part 8: Non-rechargeable type 3676 Portable fire extinguishers —Guide to servicing 4353 Portable fire extinguishers —Aerosol type 1.4. DEFINITIONS For the purpose of this Standard, the definitions below apply. L4.1 Aerosol fire extinguisher ‘A non-rechargeable fire extinguisher in which the expellant gas is stored under pressure with the extinguishant in an aerosol container. 1.4.2 Emergeney services switchboard A switchboard which sustains emergeney equipment operating in the emergency mode, 143. Fire blanket A flexible sheet of material intended to be used to extinguish fires by smotherin, L44_ Fire classification The various types of fires are classified as follows: (a) Class 4 (6) Class B—Fire involving flammable and combustible liquids. |—fires involving carbonaceous solids, (©) Class ©: (6) Class D—fires involving combustible metals. fires involving flammable gases. (c) Class E—fires involving energized electrical equipment, (Class fires involving cooking oil and fats. reialist advice should be sought in areas where doubt exists, or where combustible 1.4.5. Fire point A grouping of fire extinguishers, not necessarily of a common type, for ease of location in industrial premises. 1.46. Hazard A source of potential harm or a situation with a potential to cause loss. Hazards are classified as follows: (a) Light hazard where the amount and type of combustibles present are such that fires of only small initial size may be expected. Typical light hazards include the following: (i) Premises such as domestic/residential, offices, schoolrooms, relocatable buildings, churches and assembly halls which constitute a Class A fire risk (ii) Areas where flammable liquids are stored in containers not exeeeding 5 L. in capacity. and the total quantity stored in any one fire compartment does not exceed 25 L. which constitute a Class B fire risk. worn standards.com au (© Standards Australiaas 24442001 6 rd Where the amount and type of combustibles present are such that ial size may be expected. Typical ordinary hazards include (>) Ordinary ha fires of only moderate the following: (i) Mercantile storage and display areas, showrooms and workshops which constitute a Class A fire risk. (ii) Areas where flammable liquids are stored in open-top containers in which the exposed surface area of the liquid does not exceed 2 m’, or in container storage, not exceeding a total of 250 L in containers each not greater than 20 L, which constitute a Class B fire risk (©) High hazard Where the amount and type of combustibles present are such that fires of large initial size may be expected. Typical high hazards include the following: (i) Woodworking areas, warehouses with high-piled storage in excess of 4.5 m foam plastics processing and storage which constitute a Class A fire risk. open-top containers where the exposed surface area OL (ii) Flammable liquids stored of the liquid exceeds 2 m° or in container storage exceeding a total of 25 which constitute a Class B fire risk. NoT |For further information on the description of hazaed classification AS 2118 may be used for guidance. the definitions used in 2 Special consideration should be given to occupancies which, because of their high-fuel load, may more correctly be allocated a higher hazard classification, 1.4.7 Human torch A fire in the clothing being worn by a person, 1.4.8. Portable fire extinguisher A first-attack firefighting appliance which is designed to be carried and operated by hand and which, when charged to design capacity, has a gross mass of not greater than 23 kg. 14.9 Significant switchboard A switchboard that is— (a) located within a required ex: (b) neither constructed nor installed in accordance with the requirements of AS 3000—1970 or later edition (©) anemergeney service switehboard: (d) connected to 3-phase power: or (6) vertically aligned and servicing a floor in a building of two or more storeys. 14.10 Small craft Waterborne eraft of such size and configuration as is exempt ftom marine survey requirements © Standards Austra vo standards com. auSECTION 2 SELECTION OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS 2.1 GENERAL, The most effective extinguishant for any given fire situation is usually some form of compromise. Careful consideration must be given to operator competence and all risks that are present. Flammable liquids or gases in inaccessible locations (e.g. inside cabinets), clothing fires and energized electrical equipment, all present their own specific risks. Risks. are shown against preferred extinguishants in Table BI NOTE: For further information on ext Appendices A and B. sher selection and extinguishing agent suitability see 2.2 CLASSIFICATION AND RATING Fire extinguishers complying with Australian Standards are marked with a fire classification and rating, determined in accordance with AS/NZS 1850, which indicates the class and size of fire for which they have been successfilly tested. An extinguisher shall be selected for its capability for use on the fire risk that is to be protected. ‘wow standards com ay © Standards Australia,as 24442001 5 SECTION 3. LOCATION OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS 3.4 GENERAL, Extinguishers shipped empty or partially dismantled shall be fully assembled and charged strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. The extinguisher shall be ‘commissioned and installed in accordance with AS 1851.1, and located in accordance with this Section. 3.2 EXTINGUISHER LOCATION Each extinguisher shall be located in a conspicuous and readily accessible position. ers shall not be located in positions where access could present a hazard to the potential user. Where practicable, extinguishers shall be located along normal paths of travel and near exits. For all installations, extinguishers in and around buildings shall comply with Items (a) and. (b) below. Domestic installation, defined as Class 1a building in the Building Code of Australia, is exempt, Extinguishers shall— (a) have their locations clearly indicated by placement of the location sign as shown in Figure 3.1; and () be mounted at the appropriate height shown in Figure 3.2 and varied only where there is a possibility of dislodgment and then only where ready accessibility is maintained, (© Standards Australia wn standards com aw° As 2444-2001 DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES NOTE: AM dimensions shown are minimum. Any enlargement of the sign should have all dimensions in proportion 1 those shown above FIGURE 3.1 TYPICAL EXTINGUISHER LOCATION SIGN www standards,com au © Standards AustraliaAs 2444-2001 aa EXTINGUISHER — | 2000 TY 7 i i° + 100 min ——————— DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES IRE EXTINGUISHERS AND FIGURE 3.2. MOUNTING HEIGHTS FOR PORTABI LOCATION SIGNS (© Standards Australia wo standards com au" As 24442001 3.3. EXTINGUISHER LOCATION SIGNS 33.1 ‘The size of the sign shall be determined by — ign size (a) the location at which the sign shall be legible; and (b) the distance at which the sign shall be legible. 3.3.2 Location signs ‘The extinguisher and on aed field, approxi 33.3 A sign shall be provided above or adjacent to an extinguisher. A single sign may be employed to indicate multiple extinguishers in one location, even if different types are grouped together. re point location signs shall have symbol, border and letters in white nating R13 Signal Red of AS 2700 (see Figure 3.1), n loca Signs shall be positioned so as to be clearly vi 3.34 Mounting height ble to persons approaching the extinguisher. Signs shall be mounted not fess than 2.0 m above floor level, or at a height that makes them ‘most apparent to a person of average height and visual acuity approaching the extinguisher location. 3.4 VISIBILITY The extinguisher, or extinguisher location sign, shall be clearly visible from a distance up to 20 min al directions of approach, 3.5 SUPPORT Each extinguisher shall be supported by an appropriate support fitting or bracket, or placed in a cabinet or enclosure with the front of the extinguisher facing outward. Where an extinguisher is fitted in a vehicle, it shall require a suitable restraining bracket to withstand forces that result from vehicle impact or braking. 3.6 CABINET OR ENCLOSURE, Where a cabinet or enclosure is used, the open door shall not encroach on the required width of path of travel to an exit or doorway. In addition to the location sign referred 10 Clause 3.3, the cabinet or enclosure shall be marked with the words “FIRE EXTINGUISHER’ in letters at least 32 mm high in a colour contrasting with the background unless the door has not less than 50% of its surface area fabricated from transparent ‘material that permits visual identification of the eabinet’s contents. Where extinguishers are ly to incur unauthorized interference, the cabinet may be locked. Locked cabinets shall be provided with a frangible panel to provide access to the latching device or extinguisher. The panel shall be not less than 150 x 150 mm, and the panel material shall comply with the requirements for frangibility set out in AS 1603 3.7 RECORD OF TYPE AND DISPOSITION Records of the type, disposition and location of fire extinguishers shall comply with the appropriate requirements set out in AS 1851.1 wu standards. com ay (© Standards Australia,As 2444-2001 2 3.8 FIRE POINTS. 3.8.1 Fixed fire point Fire points shall be marked in accordance with the requirements of Figure 3.3 and Clause 3.3 The travel distances specified in 3.8.2. Mobile fire point Where itis not practical to meet 1 point shall be used (see Figure 3.4) fon 4 shall apply. ied in Section 4, a mobile fire travel distances spe The storage location of a mobile fire point shall be separately protected, 3.9 ENVIRONMENT Extinguishers installed in locations where the temperature is outside the range 5°C to 50°C shall be thermally protected or be of a type suitable for temperatures outside this range. Extinguishers installed where they may be subjected to adverse conditions or aggressive environments shail be protected from possible deterioration Examples of aggressive environments include the following: (a) Exterior situations exposed to the sun, ultraviolet radiation, wind, rain or salt spray. (b) Corrosive atmospheres. (©) Abnormally dusty or moisture-laden atmospheres. (8) Environments which subject the extinguisher to continuous or intense vibrations. (©) Environments having extremes of temperature. © Standards Australia vw standards com ay200 min ost) Troy | == 1508 sy | Finished floor level ‘dunction of wall and floor Note: Any enlargement ofthe sign should have all dimensions in proportion to those shown above DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES FIGURE 3.3. TYPICAL FIRE POINT ww standrds.com ay (© Standavds AustraliaAs 2444-2001 ‘ FIGURE 3.4 TYPICAL MOBILE FIRE POINT (© Standards Australia wu standards.com au5 As 2444-2001 SECTION 4 DISTRIBUTION OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS IN BUILDINGS 4.1 GENERAL, Distribution of portable fire extinguishers shall be in accordance with the hazard present in the area to be protected (see Clause 1.4.6) rather than the size of the area. The classification and rating of each extinguisher shall be at least equal to that which is appropriate to the hazard of the area to be protected. A number of extinguishers of lower hall not be used to attain the required protection, Where more than one extinguisher of the same type is required (see Tables 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3), each extinguisher of that type shall be sited separately except where assembled at fire points, 11 is permissible to provide extinguishers having @ higher classification and rating than required for the area to be protected. An extinguisher having more than one classification and rating. e.g. 2A:20B, shall be regarded as acceptable in terms of each classification and rating if the risks are within the same protected area. 4.2. CLASS A FIRE RISKS 4.2.1 Primary extinguisher protection For Class A fire risks, extinguishers shall be distributed in accordance with Table 4.1 Notwithstanding the requirements of Table 4.1, the travel distance from any point to the nearest extinguisher shall be not greater than 15 m, Where a Class A fire risk involves electrically energized equipment, the extinguisher or another available extinguisher shall have an E classification. 4.2.2 Complementary extinguisher protection For Class A fire risks, where fire extinguishers are provided to complement a fixed automatic fire suppression system complying with the requirements of AS 2118 (all parts) or AS 4214 (all parts), extinguishers shall be in accordance with Table 4.1 4.3 CLASS B FIRE RISKS 4 For Class B fire risks. in areas not containing a fixed automatic fire suppression system, extinguishers shall be distributed in accordance with Table 4.2, 1 Extinguisher protection only 4.3.2, Complementary extinguisher protection For Class B fire risks, where fire extinguishers are provided to complement a fixed automatic fire suppression system complying with the requirements of AS 2118 (all parts) or AS 4214 (all parts), extinguishers shall be distributed in accordance with Table 4.3, wor standards com au (© Standards Australia,TABLE 4.1 MINIMUM RATING, CLASSIFICATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF EXTINGUISHERS FOR CLASS A FIRE RISKS . | Naiman for vine | Misimua rating | out And clasiteation | —guiggusher |" ted tie suppvesion hazard | irextinguishers ; - Ter is) i ino ‘Ordinary 24 i 28 i a 8 100 High aA 5 2 3 a 2% a os om | ion TABLE 4.2 MINIMUM RATING, CLASSIFICATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF EXTINGUISHERS FOR CLASS B FIRE RISKS IN AREAS NOT CONTAINING A FIXED AUTOMATIC FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM Fire slassification of arard | “Ccringuishers | o Tight 3 2103 ow 2wod 208 dios ‘Ordinary 208 30s B 3078 308 340 10 Teh m7 Tay om 440 128 508 suis (© Standards Austalia woe standards com auv AS 24442001 TABLE 4.3 DISTRIBUTION OF EXTINGUISHERS FOR CLASS B FIRE RISKS IN AREAS CONTAINING A FIXED AUTOMATIC FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM, Travel distance From | Mininons rating ana | Waeediyance om | staximum floor area : classification of ea a estinguishers ie Tah oa Fos 108 31078 208, to to Ordinary 200 Foo 2 310 125 08 Stats Tigh “08 io 1 on te | 08 tus 44 COMPLEMENTARY PROTECTION 4.4.1 General In areas where the risk involves energized electrical or electronic equipment or cooking oils or fats, extinguishers which have an E or F classification shall be provided, as appropriate This may be achieved by using either dedicated units or extinguishers with suitable ratings which form part of the Class A or Class B protection, 4.4.2. Significant switchboards An extinguisher shall be located between 2 and 20 m from any significant switchboard, A 5 kg carbon dioxide extinguisher, or another type of extinguisher having a minimum, classification of 1:E and fitted with a hose, shall be provided and shall be the extinguisher closest to the switchboard, 4.4.3 Office electrical and electronic ris The maximum distance from an extinguisher’s normal location to the risk shall be either — (a) 20 metres, in areas where there is a large density of electrical/electronie equipment (e.g. computer centres, broadcasting studios, telephone exchange equipment rooms and the like); or (>) 40 metres, in where there is a lesser distribution of electrical/electronic equipment (e.g. offices using computers and photocopiers). 4.44 Cooking oils and fats An extinguisher shall be located between 2 and 20 m from the risk, ‘Where a fire extinguisher is being selected to control fires involving cooking oils and fats, iguisher with an F classification and rating applicable to the surface area of the hhazard shall be provided and shall be the extinguisher closest to the risk. wu standards. com au (© Standards AustraliaAs 24442001 8 SECTION 5 SELECTION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS IN VEHICLES AND SMALL CRAFT SL GENERAL Where extinguishers are required for vehicles, ineluding caravans, and small craft, they shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of Table 5.1. The Table specifies the minimum requirements, but in some circumstances, more stringent requirements may be set by the appropriate regulatory authority 5.2. REMOTE AREAS For a vehicle intended for operation in a remote area where the loss of the vehicle may jeopardize life, consideration shall be given to the provision of fire protection equipment additional to that specified in Clause 5.1 5.3 ACCESSIBILITY Extinguishers are to be located to enable safe access in an emergency and supported by a suitable bracket to withstand the forces that result from vehicle impact or braking. Suitable areas for mounting extinguishers may be under or adjacent to the driver's seat of vehicles or adjacent to external doors of vans, houseboats and passenger vehicles. 5.4 SELECTION FACTORS For a car, caravan, small craft and the like, it is stressed that a fire extinguisher is provided for the initial stages of a fire. To gain access to awkward locations, consideration shall be given to the provision of an extinguisher fitted with a hose (see Table 5.1). For commercial vehicles, consideration shall be given to the type of vehicle, the cargo being carried and the requirements of the regulatory authority. Every fire extinguisher for use in commercial vehicles shall be of a type fitted with a hose to assist in gaining access to awkward locations (see Table 5.1). © Standards Austalia ‘wor standards com auTABLE 5.1 ss 2444-2001 MINIMUM RATING, CLASSIFICATION AND NUMBER OF EXTINGUISHERS, FOR VEHICLES, ype of vehile ‘Minionom rating we Minimum number of| classification uf extinguishers ‘extinguishers ‘Sedan, station wagon, panel van or wility TASB i Single compartment las 1 Maltiscompartmeat IASB 2 ‘Ouiboard-powered boat ‘Sl fel tank ¢= 25 L) so ' Lange fae tank © 28 L) 2p. t Houschoat and motor cruising yacht 2A0B, 2 Passenger-carrying vehicle In atban areas or om short trips outside 2a:208 1 ban areas {fined with hose) “Outside urban areas or when fied wih 2A208 5 integral lugeage compartment fied sith hose one wo he mounted near the underfloor aret or engine) rying vehicle TAU ‘ized with hose) in cabin (Additional extinguishers appropriate tothe carg eatricd and in accordance vith te relevant regulations) NOTES 1 In caravans and boats where cooking appliance (using cooking ils and fats) are installed, «fire blanket 2 Consideration should be found in vehicles if capabl and the like ‘ur standards.com au recommended, additonal to 1 above toll extinguishers having a0 Eating hs ‘of being conected fo 240 V ave, eg. cara Arial hazards may be fans, campervans, houseboatsAs 2444-2001 2 SECTION 6 SELECTION AND LOCATION OF FIRE BLANKETS 6.1 GENERAL, Fire blankets provide an appliance with which to attack small Class A and Class B fires and. fires involving cooking oils and fats. Fire blankets may also be used as a thermal barrier against radiated heat and to control a fire in the elothes being worn by a person (also known as a ‘human torch’ fire). Blankets manufactured to AS/NZS 3504 are rectangular or square in shape and are available in sizes between 0.9 m x 0.9 mand 1.8 mx 1.8 m, 6.2 SELECTION Fire blankets shall be of a size to meet the expected hazard. Where a ‘human torch’ fire is considered part of the risk, a fire blanket of size 1.2 mx 1.8 m or 1.8 mx 1.8m shall be provided. However, in confined spaces, smaller blankets shall be considered in order to facilitate use. NOTE: In some circumstances this may requite multiple fire blankets. 6.3 LOCATION Each fire blanket shall be located in a conspicuous and readily accessible position but shall not be located in a position where access could present a hazard to the potential user. Where practicable, fire blankets shall be located along normal paths of travel and near exits. For non-domestic installations, fire blankets in and around buil shall have their location clearly indicated by placement of the location sign shown in Figure 6.1. The ‘colours used on the sign shall approximate the colour standards specified in Table 6.1 TABLE 6.1 FIRE BLANKET LOCATION SIGN COLOURS. ‘Specification Basie colour mame | reference number (3s 2700), RB White Back 6 FIRE BLANKET LOCATION SIGNS GAL Sign size ‘The size of the sign shall be determined by — (a) the location at which the sign shall be legible; and (b) the distance at which the sign shall be legible (© Standards Austra. ‘wow standards com au2 As 2445-2001 6.4.2 Sign location shall be provided above or adjacent to a fire blanket. A single sign may be employed to indicate multiple fire blankets in one location, Signs shall be positioned so as to be clearly visible to persons approaching the blanket. 6.4.3, Mounting height Signs shall be mounted not less than 2.0 m above floor level, or at a height that makes them, ‘most apparent to a person of average height and visual acuity approaching the blanket location. 6.4.4 Location signs The fire blanket location sign shall have a symbol and border in white on a red field approximating R13 Signal Red of AS 2700, Lettering shall be black on a white field (see 6.5 MOUNTING Fire blankets shall be installed by mounting their containers so as 10 withstand the loads imposed when removing the fire blanket from its container. Sufficient room shall be allowed so that the fire blanket can be quickly removed without impedance from nearby obstructions, wwe standards.com au (© Standards Austra15 | | white | 4 wie ames Rea Black as outline | 1 Black o ters Po White Ts "FIRE BLANKET: « t ) tow 1019) w, L— 1000) ‘ \ 5 ity) NOTE: All dimcasons shown are minimum, Any enlargement ofthe location sgn shout hae dimconions in DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES FIGURE 6.1 TYPICAL FIRE BLANKET LOCATION SIGN © Standards Australia wun standards com aa As 244420 APPENDIX. A FACTORS AFFECTING THE SELECTION OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS (Informative) AL GENERAL Portable fire ext stages. The sele the Following: iguishers provide an appliance with which to attack fire in its initial jon of suitable extinguishers depends on a number of factors, including (a) Expected types of fire ineluding size and propagation. (b) Construction and occupancy of the property (©) _ Special risk 10 be protected. (a) Extremes of temperature expected. ©) (1) Expected time for the fire brigade to arrive. 'y of other manual or automatic firefighting equipment. (e) Expertise and capability of the likely user. See Figure A1 for portable fire extinguisher/fire blanket selection chart The ratings of fire extinguishers are a comparison of the performance of fire extinguishers under ideal conditions. The performance obtained under such conditions is seldom realized under actual field conditions. However, it is the only practical repeatable method of ‘comparing the relative performance of fire extinguishers The method of rating fire extinguishers (described in AS/NZS 1850) allows for tests involving pure hazards from each class, under specified weather conditions in specially prepared surroundings. The operators are highly trained, wear protective clothing and often practice for a considerable time on a particular extinguisher/fire combination before attempting an official rating test. ‘Most fires involve multiple fire hazards, Fuel spill or gas incidents often happen in areas containing obstacles that limit access to the seat of fire, or contain materials of a ‘carbonaceous nature, i.e. Class A hazards. Extinguishers that have exceptional performance ‘on Class B or C hazards are often incapable of extinguishing the Class A fire in combination with a Class B of C fire. No matter how minor the hazards may be. re-ignition ‘can occur as a result of the Class A fire. Hazards involving energized electrical equipment always involve one or more other class hazards. Electricity does not burn, the other ‘materials involved in the hazard do. Selection of a fire extinguisher for a particular hazard can be made using fire ratings as a comparison of the performance of individual extinguishers, and ensuring that all of the potential hazards are covered. NOTES: 1 Appendix B provides information forthe selec hhavard, of a suitable extinguishant for an expected The future performance of portable fire extinguishers is dependent on a correct maintenance www standards com au (© Standards Australia.AS 2444200 ny A2_ CLASSIFICATION AND RATING When a fire extinguisher is rated for more than one class of fire, it is expressed in alphabetical order, e.g. 2A:40B:1F indicated in Tables 4.1 to 4.3 and 5.1 are an indication of the wuisher as determined by test (see AS/NZS 1850). The A, 2 to 80 for Class B and | to 4 for Class F. The numerical ratings performance capacity of an ex rating values range from 1 t0 10 for Clas Extinguishers which have shown by test fo be capable of extinguishi flammable gases or combustible metals are marked C or D. as applicable. fires involving In addition to its classification and rating, a fire extinguisher which is suitable for use on fires involving energized electrical equipment bears the letter E, e.g. 2A:40B:E:1F. her that will cover all classes of fires. For this reason careful consideration needs to be given to all the factors involved in the fire hazard under review, in order to select the most suitable fire extinguisher, of combination of fire Where a fire including an electrical hazard ean be expected, the extinguishant must be electrically non-conductive, in addition to having the relevant classification. The marking. ‘of E on the fire extinguisher indicates that the extinguishant, as discharged, is electrically non-conductive, NOTE: Extinguishers produced between 1976 and 1981 were marked *C* and hetween 1981 and 10996 were marked “Eto indicate onductivity Where there is a potential for a fire involving cooking oils or fats to oceur, an extinguishei with an F rating is suitable, Consideration should also be given to the selection of a blanket. A3_ FACTORS AFFECTING SELECTION A3.1 Physical factors Physsical factors which affect selection and need consideration include the following: (a) Choice of an appropriate extinguishant for the type of fire most likely to oceur. (b) Size and mass of the fire extinguisher, the minimum distance of travel and the ability Of the user fo carry and operate i (©) Effects of environmental conditions on the fire extinguisher and its support fixture. (@)_ Possibility of adverse reactions, contamination or other effects of an extinguishant on produets or equipment. (6) Possibility of winds or draughts affecting the distribution of the extinguishant. (0 Possibility of installation of the fire extinguisher in a location where vibration may affect the components of the extinguisher or its contents, e.g. powder. AS.2. Health and safety factors Most fires produce toxie products of combustion and some materials may produce highly toxie gases. Fires consume available oxygen and may involve dangerously high exposure to convected or radiated heat. Any space in which there is smoke, fumes or pungent odours, or in which extinguishers have been discharged, should be immediately vacated by all persons not involved in fire control. The space should only be re-entered with caution, Health and safety include the following: \d need consideration lors which affect the se ion of extinguishers (a) Carbon dioxide, used in sufficient concentration to extinguish a fire, will displace air, in a confined space. Oxygen deficiency is li (© Standards Austaia ww: standards com auas As 24442001 (6) Powder extinguishers, discharged in a confined space, can temporarily reduce visibility and may cause respiratory irritation. ABE powders based on ammonium phosphate should not be used for the protection of appliances using cooking oils oo Fats (c) Water-based extinguishants (water, wet chemical and foam) are electrically conductive and therefore must not be used on fires involving electrically energized equipment, (4) Vaporizing liquid, discharged in a confined space during a fire may produce hazardous decomposition product, NOTES: 1 Some extinguishants may be classified by regulatory authorities as being hazardous of havin aan adverse environmental impact. In such cases, these authorities may require special markings on containers or speeial precautions to be taken when disposing of the extinguishant and its container, or both, 2 Fire blankets may be used as a thermal barrier against radiated heat A3.3 Human factors Consideration should be given to the physical capability of people to vacate the area in which a fire extinguisher has been discharged and to the possibility of a inappropriate reaction to the extinguisher discharge in regard to sight, sound and irritant fumes by people who, although not endangered, are unfamiliar with fire extinguishers or are aware of their reduced ability to vacate the area. A3.4. Training factor To optimize effective use of fire extinguishers, personnel should be trained in the use of fire extinguishers to optimize their effectiveness. Training of personnel in the use of extinguishers is particularly desirable in buildings requiring a high degree of life safety such as hospitals, homes for persons with disabilities and welfare centres. A3.5_ Selection for domestic and residential application Where it is decided to install a fire extinguisher in a dwelling, a classific B:E:F is recommended. Factors to be considered in the selection include the following: (a) Identification of the class of hazard which presents the greatest risk, e.g. cooking area, open heating or recreational pursuits. (>) Extinguishers used on cooking oil fires can create a hazard through the violent dispersion of the burning liquid. (©) Location of the fire extinguisher in plain view and in a position to enable it to be reached in the event of fire. (@)_ Factors included in Clause 4.4.4 For home use, where an adequate water supply is available, a garden hose which will reach all parts of the home and is permanently connected to a tap ean provide adequate protection, for Class A fires. Where such a hose is available, the extinguisher mentioned above may not need to have an A classification, In multilevel structures, additional extinguishers should be considered, For relocatable dwellings a minimum of two extinguishers each having a rating of A:B:E or B:E:F should be provided, For multi-dwellings, each occupancy should be considered as if it were a single occupancy. For common property additional extinguishers should be considered. wor standards com ay © Standards AustriaAs 2444-2001 LVHO NOLLOZ13S LBANVIG BUIRISHSINONIA BL4 TIAVLNOd Ly BuNOIS oe 1 OOOra® TuNgwiung pue Sse19 “2313 30 GAL (© Standards Australia” AS 44-2001 APPENDIX B SELECTION OF EXTINGUISHANT (Unformative) BL SCOPE. This Appendix describes the advantages and disadvantages of each type of extinguishant and fire blankets to provide a guide for the selection of the most effective means of extinguishing a given fire risk. There is no one type of fire extinguisher which will cover A, B,C, D, E and F Class fires, and all fires within each class, B2_ GENERAL, ‘The most effective extinguishant for any given fire situation will usually be some form of compromise. Careful consideration must be given {0 operator competence and all risks that are present. Flammable liquids or gases in inaccessible locations (e.g. inside cabinets) clothing fires and energized electrical equipment, all present their own specific risks. Risks are shown against preferred extinguishants in Table BI. Careful consideration needs to be given to all the factors involved in the fire risk under review to select the most suitable ual fire extinguisher, or combination of fire tuishers. In the case of doubt, expert advice should be sought. Where extinguishers are required in areas such as health care, day care and aged care facilities and where the occupants are unable to reasonably avoid exposure to the azent. extra care should be taken in the selection of extinguishants (see also Appendix A. Paragraph A3.3). wwe standards com au (© Standards AustatiaAs 24442001 2» TABLE BI PREFERRED EXTINGUISHANTS FOR GIVEN RISKS Risk Preferred extinguishant ‘Class ur eapabitity Perceived (notin order of preference) R Clothing fire fire in the ethos Boing Water Jame A small carbonaceous sold fi aaa pe ‘Wet chemical Vaporizng liquid Carbon dioxide Kimited) Water A Large carbonaceous solids Five Foam ABE powder BE and ABE powder 8 Petoleum-based tiguid Veporizng liquid (timited) Carbon dioxide ited) BE and ABE powder , Alcool-resistant foam 8 Polar solvents Vaporiring liquid (i Carbon dioxide dimited) c Gas fires BE and ABE powd D Metal fires Special powder meme ABE and BE powder 1 cs ving ene tes ara ae eavipmes aporiring guid Wet chemical . BE powder F cooking ots and fats fires aaa Foam dinited) B3 WATER B3.1 Description Water (or water to which may be added corrosion inhibitors, freezing point depressants and ‘wetting agents) applied by extinguisher, hose or other means, B3.2- Environment Water is considered to be environmentally innocuous. 183.3 Physical action and reaction |Water reduces the {emperature below ignition temperature. B34 Advantages Water is usually inexpensive and readily available. It is an effective extinguishant for Class A fires B3.5 Disadvantages Water is only suitable for Class A fires, It may be dangerous on other classes of fires and ‘must not be used on fires involving energized electrical equipment, B3.6 Si itability Water is a very effective extinguishant for use on Class A fires, © Standards Ausralia ww standards.com.au2» As 24442001 B4 WET CHEMICAL BA.1 Description An aqueous solution, typically of alkali metal salts, formulated to extinguish fires in cooking oils and fats. It is applied by an extinguisher in the form ofa fine spray. B42 Environment The environmental effect of this extinguishant varies with its composition. Speci should be sought as necessary. list advice B4.3. Physical action and reaction This extinguishant reacts with the surface of the oil or fat, creating a barrier which sea the air supply. B44 Advantages This extinguishant provides rapid knockdown of fires involving cooking oils or fats and provides a lasting foam like blanket (0 control the fire after the extinguisher discharge is completed B4.S Disadvantages The solution is usually alkaline, and consequently will corrode some metals, especially aluminium. It may also irritate eyes and skin, Prompt clean-up is advised. It must not be used on fires involving energized electrical equipment. B46 Si y ‘The preferred extinguishant for fires in vegetable and animal oils and fats. I is also able to extinguish Class A fires. BS FOAM BS.1 Deseri Foam is most commonly available in the following types (a) Aqueous film-forming foam concentrate (AFFF) A synthetic foam concentrate consisting of fluorinated surfactants plus foam stabilizers which are mixed with water to form a foam solution, () Aleohol-resistant foam concentrate (ATC) foam concentrate which, when mixed ‘with water to form a foam solution, produces a foam whi the bubble structure that resists breakdown at the interface of the fuel and foam blanket. AFFF is suitable for use on common flammable liquid fires involving petrol, oil oF paint and ATC foam is suitable for use on solvents that mix with water (e.g. alcohol and acetone), these solvents being known as polar solvents. Unlike conventional AFFF, ATC foam does not readily mix with polar solvents B5.2_ Environment The solutions are usually regarded as being biodegradable therefore they are environmentally acceptable in small quantities of dilute solution of 6% typical. BS.3. Physical action and reaction Provides a layer of foam which excludes air, and is used to control Class B and F fires. It wets Class A fuels. lowering their temperature as well as excluding air B54 Advantages Foam provides a lasting layer to control the fire after the extinguisher discharge is completed. It ean also be used as a vapour-suppression barrier over flammable-liquid spills wo standards com ay ‘© Standards Austataas 24442001 30 B: The extinguishant is an aqueous solution which requires to be cleaned up after use particularly on painted surfaces, and must not be used on fires involving energized electrical equipment. BS.6 Suitability Disadvantages Foam is an effective extinguishant for Class A and Class B fires and of limited effectiveness on Class F fires BG POWDER B6.1 Description ‘There are two common types of powders which are applied to a fire by an extinguisher, viz. BE and ABE, Special powders are available to deal with Class D metal fires, which may not be effective on other classes of fire, BE powder is usually based on sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, or potassium chloride, ABE powder is usually based on monoammonium phosphate. 86.2 Environment Powder is usually regarded as environmentally acceptable. B63 Physi Powder physically adsorbs fuel molecules into its surface. action and reat B64 Advantages Powder provides rapid *knock-down’ for a range of fire types. When dry, it may be cleaned up with a vacuum cleaner or damp cloth, B68 Disadvantages On discharge, the extinguishant forms a dense cloud of powder which may temporarily restrict Vision and may eause respiratory irritation. ABE powder, when it contacts very hot objects, can melt and form a film which may be difficult to remove. After initial “knock- down’, powder gives no protection against re-ignition of flammable liquid fires. While BE powder is not effective on Class A fires, ABE powder is of limited effectiveness on involving cooking oils and fats. B6.6 Suitability BE powder can be used on Classes B. C and F fires and fires involving energized electrical equipment. ABE powder ean be used on Class A, B and C fires and fires involving energized electrical equipment. B7_ CARBON DIOXIDE B71 Description Carbon a gaseous extinguishant stored at high pressure in a liguid state. B72 Environment ide is a natural component of the atmosphere and is considered environmentally fioxide Carbon acceptable. B7.3. Physical action and reaction Carbon dioxide displaces air to produce an will not support combustion mosphere deficient of oxygen to the level that (© Standards Australia vw standards com auu As 2444-2001 B74 Advantages Carbon dioxide leaves no residue, is safe for use on fires involving energized electrica equipment, and is effective on fires in locations, such as semi-sealed enclosures, which cannot be readily penetrated by non-gaseous extinguishants. I is the preferred extinguishant for use in electronic environments and where patients may be exposed to extinguishants, BTS. Disadvantages Carbon dioxide has a very poor ‘knock-down’, short discharge range and is almost totally ineffective in the presence of significant air movements. Because it displaces oxyge atmospheres containing enough carbon dioxide to extinguish a fire do not contain enough oxygen to support life and could kill by asphyxiation. The carbon dioxide is discharged forming a cloud of very cold gas and some solids (dry ie). It produces a loud noise during discharge that may startle inexperienced operators. ¢ of carbon dioxide from an extinguisher may produce a static charge which an electric shock to the user. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are fitted with pressure relief devices that may be activated when the extinguisher is installed in positions exposed to direct sunlight, radiated heat with temperatures which could exceed S0°C. Glass in cabinets would fracture on the pressure release and serious injury could result. Carbon dioxide extinguishers must not be installed in positions exposed to direct sunlight, or radiated heat with temperatures which could exceed 50°C. B7.6 Suitability Carbon dioxide is suitable for use on small Class B fires and fires involving energized electrical equipment. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are not intended to be selected to protect normal Class A. hazards, but are suitable for selection for fires involving energized electrical equipment where it predominantly involves small quantities of Class A fuels. such as small switeh boards and computer based equipment, BS VAPORIZING LIQUID BS.1 Desi Gas is stored under pressure as a liqui tion usually pressurized with nitrogen. B82. Environment \Vaporizing liquids may have ozone depletion and global warming potential. B8.3 Physical action and reaction Vaporizing liquids extinguish fires both physically (by cooling) and chemically (by interfering with the chemical process). B84 Advantages Vaporizing liquids are clean extinguishants w and rarely damage equipment. ich generally penetrate inaccessible locations BS.5_ Disadvantages Thermal decomposition produets of vap liquids may be toxie. Vaporizing liquids themselves are usually toxic in high concentrations or long-term exposure and may be dangerous on fires involving cooking oils and fats and in confined spaces. The cextinguishants may be proscribed under government regulations, B8.6 Suitability Vaporizing liquids are generally suitable for use on Class A and Class E fires and fires involving energized electrical equipment and have limited effectiveness on Class Band Class C fires, ‘war standards com au (© Standards Australiaas 24442001 2 BO FIRE BLANKET Bo, A fire blanket isa flexible sheet of non-flammable material 89.2 Environment No known effects 9.3. Physical action and reaction ‘Smothers fire by physically excluding oxygen. B94 Advantages Light manageable protection against a number of fire risks, including clothing fires, and the blanket requires minimum maintenance, B9.S Disadvantages The effectiveness of a blanket against a cooking oil or fat fire depends on obtaining a good physical seal between the blanket and the rim of the container. If physical constraints of either the user or the shape or size of the container make this unlikely or impossible, then the effectiveness of the blanket will be greatly reduced. Smaller sizes of blankets may not be satisfactory for clothing fires on adults. B9.6 Suitability Fire bi person kets are generally suitable for small Class F fires, fires in clothing worn by a nd as a thermal barrier. (© Standards Australia vw standards. com au