Key Takeaways
Calculating fire extinguisher needs:- Risk Assessment: Consider building size and fire hazard levels to determine quantity.
- Extinguisher Types: Select based on potential fire sources (A, B, C, or ABC).
- Placement Guidelines: Follow NFPA standards for strategic location and accessibility.
There are many things to consider when owning a commercial property. Besides dealing with its design and the elements included in the space, the protection and security you provide are also at the forefront. With that being said, Chapter 6.2 of the NFPA 10 covers the rules required in installing portable fire extinguishers in commercial buildings.
Since you can’t just place and have any portable fire extinguisher in your space. The NFPA 10 will serve as a guide, so you know what type of fire extinguisher that best fits the needs of your commercial space. If you’re wondering, “how many fire extinguishers do I need?” then keep reading!
Different Types and Sizes of Fire Extinguishers
If you’re wondering how many fire extinguishers you need for your space, there are a plethora of things you need to consider. Before buying fire extinguishers, you need to know the fire risks of your property to know the type, size, and several fire extinguishers to purchase.
On top of that, you also need to know the fire extinguisher class you should choose. Of course, you should buy high-quality fire equipment from credible manufacturers, like SBI contracting, since they offer fire extinguishers and equipment fit for commercial use.
Here are the fire classes you should be aware of:
- Class A fires are the most common, and they comprise combustible products like wood, paper, plastic, and fabric. Since they’re common, they’re most likely in every commercial building.
- Class B fires involve flammable gases or liquids like gasoline, propane, kerosene, and oil.
- Class C fires involve fires that involve electrical wiring that pose the threat of electrocution.
If you want to combat all three types of fires, you can purchase a multi-purpose ABC fire extinguisher. Also, note that these have size ratings, so if they have higher numbers, they have greater fire extinguishing capacity.
How Many Fire Extinguishers Do I Need?
A great way to know how many extinguishers your property needs is by using your building’s fire hazard level to know the number, size, and placement. This is crucial because the number of fire risks in buildings can be different, and this can tell you the most effective way to position your fire extinguishers.
- Light Fire Hazard: Establishments considered as a light-hazard area schools, churches, offices, and hotels since they have minimal fire risk. For Class A hazards, your fire extinguishers need to be 2A or larger and should have a maximum distance of 75 feet between each extinguisher.
- Ordinary Fire Hazard: Establishments with ordinary fire risks are fabric stores, dry cleaners, hardware stores, post offices, and parking garages. Like light fire hazards, Class A extinguishers should be 2A or larger and have a maximum travel distance of 75 feet. On the other hand, if Class B hazards exist, 20B extinguishers should be placed within reach of each employee, 50 feet or less.
- Extra Fire Hazard: Establishments like furniture upholstering shops, assembly plants, plastic processing factories, and die casting facilities have large quantities of explosive contents. Class A extinguishers in these spaces should be 4A or larger, and Class B hazards should have 80B extinguishers positioned 50 feet or less from an employee.
The Bottom Line: It’s Crucial to Know How Many Extinguishers You Need and the Types Your Establishment Requires
There’s no denying that security and protection should be at the forefront of every commercial establishment. This is because hundreds of people walk in and out of these spaces, and it’s your responsibility that you keep every individual safe.
With that being said, if you’re wondering, “How many fire extinguishers do I need?” or “What types of extinguishers do my property require?” Hopefully, our guide has equipped you with the facts you need to better protect your space and those around you.
How Can We Help You?
If you’re looking for high-quality portable fire extinguishers, SBI contracting is here to help.
We are the leading construction material wholesaler that provides a plethora of products that fit your needs. From fire equipment to washroom accessories, site furnishings to toilet partitions and hardware — we’ve got you covered.
Check out our products and give us a call at 208.376.5200 today!