Have you ever wondered why fire extinguishers cannot be placed on the floor? It may seem like a convenient location, but there are important reasons why this is not allowed.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), fire extinguishers must be mounted at least four inches off the ground, and there are several reasons for this requirement.
One reason is that placing a fire extinguisher on the floor can make it difficult to access in an emergency. If a fire breaks out, people may be unable to quickly locate and retrieve the extinguisher if it is on the ground.
Additionally, placing the extinguisher on the floor can make it more vulnerable to damage or tampering. It may be kicked or knocked over, or someone may intentionally move or steal it.
Another reason for the requirement is that mounting the extinguisher at a higher level can increase its visibility and accessibility.
When the extinguisher is mounted on the wall at eye level, it is easier to spot and grab in an emergency. This can help to minimize the time it takes to put out a fire and reduce the risk of injury or damage.
The Science of Fire Extinguishers
How Fire Extinguishers Work
Have you ever wondered how fire extinguishers work? In simple terms, fire extinguishers remove one or more elements that a fire needs to burn. These elements are fuel, heat, and oxygen. Fire extinguishers work by either cooling the fuel source, removing oxygen, or interrupting the chemical reaction that is taking place.
Different types of fires require different types of extinguishers.
A Class A fire involving ordinary combustibles such as wood or paper can be put out with water or a foam extinguisher.
A Class B fire involving flammable liquids such as gasoline or oil can be put out with a dry chemical extinguisher.
A Class C fire involving electrical equipment requires a non-conductive extinguisher, such as a carbon dioxide extinguisher.
It is important to note that fire extinguishers must be installed properly to be effective.
OSHA requires that fire extinguishers be installed at least four inches off the ground so they cannot be stored on the floor. Fire extinguishers also need to be installed in places where they are visible. Still, if an obstruction is unavoidable, then there needs to be a sign provided to indicate the extinguisher's location.
In addition to proper installation, knowing how to use a fire extinguisher is important. The acronym PASS can help you remember the steps to use a fire extinguisher properly:
- Pull the pin
- Aim at the base of the fire
- Squeeze the trigger
- Sweep the extinguisher from side to side
Why Fire Extinguishers Should Not Be Placed on the Floor
The Risk of Damage to the Extinguisher
Placing fire extinguishers on the floor is not only against the NFPA regulations but also poses a risk of damage to the extinguisher. Dropping an extinguisher on the floor can weaken the outer casing or damage operable parts, such as handles. This can render the extinguisher useless during an emergency, risking lives and property.
Additionally, fire extinguishers placed on the floor may be more susceptible to corrosion, which can further weaken the structure of the extinguisher. This can lead to the extinguisher failing to work correctly when needed.
The Risk of Inaccessibility During Emergencies
In an emergency, time is of the essence. Placing fire extinguishers on the floor can make them difficult to access quickly, especially if hidden behind furniture or other obstacles. This can delay the response time and increase the risk of the fire spreading.
Furthermore, extinguishers must be located along normal travel paths, so they are available to occupants when evacuating. You do not want occupants to move away from an exit and risk being trapped by the fire when trying to retrieve an extinguisher.
To ensure that fire extinguishers are accessible and ready for emergencies, they should be placed on a stand or fixed to a wall 3.5 to 5 feet above the floor. This ensures that they are visible, easy to access, and not susceptible to damage.
Alternative Placement Locations for Fire Extinguishers
Ideal Placement Locations
When it comes to fire extinguisher placement, some locations are more ideal than others. These locations are based on the likelihood of a fire occurring and the ease of access for individuals needing the extinguisher. Here are some ideal placement locations for fire extinguishers:
- Near exits: Fire extinguishers should be placed near exits so individuals can access them quickly and easily during a fire. This is especially important in areas with a high fire risk, such as in kitchens or workshops.
- Near potential fire hazards: Fire extinguishers such as electrical equipment or flammable liquids should also be placed near potential fire hazards. This can help to prevent a small fire from becoming a large one.
- On walls: Fire extinguishers should be mounted on walls rather than placed on the floor. This helps to ensure that they are visible and easily accessible.
Acceptable Placement Locations
While there are some ideal placement locations for fire extinguishers, there are also some acceptable locations. These locations may not be as ideal as others, but they are still acceptable and can provide some level of protection in the event of a fire. Here are some acceptable placement locations:
- On a stand: Fire extinguishers can be placed on a stand located on the floor. This can be a good option in areas where wall mounting is impossible.
- In a cabinet: Fire extinguishers can also be placed in a cabinet, which can help to protect them from damage and make them less visible. However, it is important to ensure that the cabinet is easily accessible and that the extinguisher is marked.
- On a cart: Fire extinguishers can be placed on a cart and moved to different locations as needed. This can be a good option in larger facilities with multiple potential fire hazards.
Conclusion
Fire extinguishers should never be placed on the floor. There are clear reasons for this. Firstly, they're less visible and accessible in case of an emergency. Secondly, they're more prone to damage and wear. And thirdly, they could be a potential trip hazard. Always remember, the safety of a fire extinguisher lies not just in its functionality but also in its placement.
