High-rises and maze-like office buildings dominate the modern world. In these scenarios, fire safety is a major concern. While traditional fire extinguishers are seen everywhere, they cannot extinguish all types of fire, especially electrical fires and mishaps involving flammable liquids. In these instances, you need a CO2 fire extinguisher.
As the name indicates, this contains carbon dioxide, which cuts off the oxygen supply and suffocates the flame, preventing it from spreading further. Commercial and industrial settings, such as offices, data centres, laboratories, and manufacturing plants, widely use it where electrical equipment is present, as a co2 extinguisher used for tackling electrical and flammable liquid fires. The best part about using it is that it does not leave any residue on the equipment, making it safe for sensitive equipment.
However, in order to ensure safety and efficiency, it is important to use it the right way. This guide covers the correct CO2 fire extinguisher use and the scenarios in which it can come in handy.
How to Use a Fire Extinguisher?
In general, a CO2 fire extinguisher is mainly used to put out fires caused by faulty wire, electrical equipment, or flammable liquids. Depending on the cause of the fire, you can modify CO2 fire extinguisher use.
Understanding the use of co2 in fire extinguisher applications helps ensure it is used only for the fire types it is designed to control.
Here are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure you use it safely:
- Avoid Usage in Confined Spaces: Avoid using a CO2 fire extinguisher in a small room or confined space. Since carbon dioxide is a toxic gas, even a concentration as low as 8% can prove fatal.
- Ideal for Damage Control: It works effectively only on small fires and can immediately prevent it from spreading. But if the fire has spread beyond control, it is advisable to evacuate the area and call fire service personnel.
It is important to place CO2 fire extinguishers at various points on your factory and office premises. However, it is equally crucial that you and the property managers are well aware of its usage.
Here’s how to use a CO2 fire extinguisher:
Keep Your Distance
When tackling a fire, make sure to stay at a safe distance. Remember that fire extinguishers are within good reach, allowing you to operate them while keeping yourself away from the flames.
Pull the Safety Pin
A CO2 fire extinguisher includes a safety pin to prevent accidental activation during installation. Hence, in order to unlock the extinguisher, pull this pin. This will break the tamper-proof seal, making it ready to be sprayed.
Avoid Holding the Horn
When you discharge CO2 to control the fire, the horn of the extinguisher turns extremely cold. In fact, the temperature drops to levels where it can give you a frostbite. So, make sure not to hold it in the heat of the moment.
Discharge the Content
Direct the nozzle in the direction of the fire and squeeze the lever to start the CO2 discharge. Do not panic from the strong noise that emanates during this process. This is normal during a CO2 fire extinguisher use.
Aim the Extinguisher
Depending on the type of fire you are trying to control, here are the steps to follow while using a CO2 fire extinguisher.
- If electrical equipment causes a fire, first switch off the power supply to prevent further ignition. Then, direct the extinguisher straight at the fire.
- In case of fire caused by flammable liquid, direct the horn to the base. Move the nozzle in a sweeping motion to cover the fire until you extinguish it evenly.
Double Check for Fire Remnant
Sometimes, while the fire may seem to have extinguished, it can reignite. Hence, before putting away the extinguisher, make sure that all the fire has been put out.
CO2 Fire Extinguisher Uses
You can now find CO2 extinguishers in most high-rise buildings, factories, and offices. These have proven to be effective in tackling sudden fires and preventing loss of property and lives.
If you are wondering what a co2 fire extinguisher is used for, it is primarily designed to tackle electrical fires and fires involving flammable liquids without leaving any residue. Here are some of the top CO2 fire extinguisher uses:
Combating Electrical Fires
CO2 fire extinguishers can handle electrical fires excellently. Since carbon dioxide is non-conductive, it can be safely used around live electrical equipment. It displaces oxygen and smothers flames effectively—without the risk of electric shock. Additionally, it does not leave any harmful residue on the equipment, preventing any further damage.
Quickly Extinguishes Liquid Flammable Fire
A CO2 fire extinguisher is very effective in extinguishing fires caused by petroleum, oils, or any other solvents. When it is discharged, the CO2 forms a cool gas cloud that covers the fire, cools it down instantly, and smothers the flames. This rapid cooling is what makes it the right choice for Class B fires.
A co2 type fire extinguisher used for Class B fires is an effective choice because it suppresses flames without damaging sensitive equipment or leaving residue.
Safety First: Shop for a CO2 Fire Extinguisher from L&T-Sufin
A fire extinguisher on your premises can go a long way in preventing any serious mishaps. So, make sure to buy a few and train your staff in its proper usage. On L&T-Sufin, discover some of the best CO2 fire extinguishers from leading brands like Attack Fire, Limrex, Fire Shield, etc. From compact extinguishers of 1 and 2 kg for home use to large ones of 22.5kg for industrial use, we have a wide range to choose from. With our branches in all major cities in India, we assure you of prompt delivery with a safe payment gateway and a 7-day returns policy. So, order a CO2 fire extinguisher today.
FAQs
Can CO2 be used on flammable liquids?
Absolutely! You can use CO2 fire extinguishers on fires caused by flammable liquids like petroleum, alcohol, and oil. They effectively cut off the oxygen supply, thereby causing the fire to suffocate and die.
What is the full form of CO2?
CO2 stands for carbon dioxide. This colourless and odourless gas helps extinguish fires. When used to put out a fire, it reduces the oxygen and suppresses the flames.
Do CO2 fire extinguishers expire?
Absolutely! CO2 fire extinguishers do expire. However, when used and stored properly, they can last up to 10 years. After this period, you should replace or refurbish them even if they are in good working condition.
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