Why wearing an Industrial Safety Helmet is mandatory Onsite?
While working on a construction site or an industrial organization, engaging with heavy and machinery objects is inevitable. There are many industries where the risk of head injuries is high, and it is essential to protect themselves from such potential danger by wearing headgear.
The employer's responsibility is to offer maximum protection to their workers. Wearing safety helmets while working on-site will protect them from multiple injuries, and we all know how crucial a head injury can be.
Wearing a safety helmet is mandatory and extremely important to save lives. The safety and health program management guidelines state that wearing PPE is mandatory at places where the risk of life may be because of a head injury.
Buying safety helmets for workers and protecting employees from potential threats is one of the most crucial things an employer can do for their organization.
How does an industrial safety helmet protect workers from head injuries?
Safety helmets are designed to offer excellent protection to workers. They are made with solid and durable materials that will prevent injuries from electric injuries, head impacts, falls of heavy objects and injury penetration.
Wearing an Industrial Safety Helmet saves employees from head trips, falls and slips
Irrespective of the industry, falling and slipping on the ground is very common. Wearing a safety helmet while working on-site can save from severe head injury that can cause due to tripping, slipping, and falling, especially in chemical or oil industries.
Wearing an Industrial Safety Helmet decreases the chances of accidents.
It is a valuable fact that multiple accidents take place in industrial areas and work units. A safety helmet will only reduce the chances of getting hurt and prevent significant injuries caused by accidents by wearing it.
Wearing an Industrial Safety Helmet also improves employee visibility.
It helps the employer to identify the employees at any time of the day.
Employees should wear a hard hat as assigned to them by the employees in the following order:
- White Safety Helmet: Competent operatives, managers, and vehicle marshals use white safety hard hat
- Black Safety Helmet: Site supervisors use the black safety hats on work site.
- Yellow Safety Helmet: Workers use the yellow safety hard hats on construction sites.
- Grey Safety Helmet: Site visitors often use the grey safety hats.
- Red Safety Helmet: Firefighters make use of the red safety hard hat.
- Green Safety Helmet: Safety officers usually wear the green safety hard hat.
- Blue Safety Helmet: Electricians, technical operators and carpenters use the blue safety helmets.
Wearing Hard hat offers sun protection.
On-site workers are hardworking people who work, day & night for the growth and betterment of the company.
During the day, these workers are exposed to the sun's rays, which can harm their health. Wide-brim safety helmets can come to the rescue to offer adequate protection from harmful sun rays.
It reduces fatigue and heatstroke and will help the workers work long hours without compromising their health.
Safety helmets should be in good condition and made of high-quality material to offer employees complete safety and health protection.
Along with the quality, the size of the helmet also plays an important role, as a well-fitted helmet can provide better protection.
In conclusion:
Safety helmets are one of the critical aspects of keeping safe while working in an industrial organization. It has proven to save lives from hazardous situations and decrease the chances of worker loss and work downtime. Offering a high level of protection to the workers will help the industry grow and maintain a reputation in the market, eventually increasing the business's potential. Explore the range of Safety Helmets online at L&T-SuFin.
Safety Helmets Standard Colour Codes in India
Safety hats come in various colours. Did you know that there is a safety helmet colour code that exists? These are standard and pre-defined codes. They are based on the nature of the work or the site in question. Bodies like the OSHA (Occupational Health and Safety Administration) usually prescribe the guidelines for Safety Helmets.
Safety helmets are imperative for ensuring proper safety at the workplace or in industrial environments. These zones are usually vulnerable towards the increasing risks of falling objects, flying objects, sudden falls, slips, trips, and loss of balance as well. Hence, safety helmets become highly necessary in this context and all workers should possess the same.
Safety Helmets Colour Code- What you should know
The industrial helmet colour codes are usually the following:
White Safety Helmet
The white colour helps people to be spot and track them easily amongst a sea of other hues. People who are in supervisory roles at the site wear them. These include architects, managers, supervisors, and engineers.
Yellow Safety Helmet
This is a safety helmet colour code that is applicable for those professionals who run heavy equipment or machinery along with earthmovers. Workers in construction work and general labour at any industrial site wear yellow safety helmets.
Green Safety Helmet
Inspectors or officers who examine and scrutinize on-site safety wear green safety hats. New trainees at sites or recruits also sometimes wear green-coloured helmets.
Brown Safety Helmet
This colour is for those professionals who take care of jobs that involve a sizable amount of heat like welding.
Orange Safety Helmet
Workers who are constructing and maintaining roads wear orange safety helmets. The orange safety hat enables people to spot them quickly. Visitors and recruits often receive helmets with this color as well.
Blue Safety Helmet
This helmet is for carpenters and electricians along with technical consultants, advisors, and interim professionals.
Red Safety Helmet
It is mainly used by those engaged in emergency services, training, and fire-fighting.
Grey Safety Helmet
This is mostly given to visitors coming to industrial areas or working sites.
Pink Safety Helmet
This colour is used by female workers in some companies. They are also additional backup options for some workers who may have forgotten their original ones at home.
These are some of the colours which are used for safety helmets nowadays. You should choose as per your designation, job role, department, or other needs.
Why should colour-coded safety helmets be used at sites/workplaces?
There are no such formal rules that mandate the usage of these helmets. But there are many advantages to using them as well. Some of them include the following:
- Being able to differentiate between team members working in diverse positions and departments.
- Quick identification of specific types of people at the time of emergencies.
- More efficiency in terms of quickly finding the right people for tackling specific jobs or queries.
You should always take a closer look at the safety helmets that you are buying, keeping an eye on the certification to ensure authenticity.
Also, check the material and whether the helmet is comfortable or not for long hours at a stretch. You will find a plethora of safety helmets options available online at L&T-SuFin. This includes helmets which come with diverse features and benefits. This is a great place to find all the safety equipment that you desire in one place. Here’s to enhanced safety and better worker identification with the right colour-coded safety helmets.
Importance of Using Safety Helmets
Nearly 2.3 million people die due to industrial accidents every year, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO). The staggering number goes on to show the importance of maintaining workplace safety practices, particularly safety helmet uses in industries such as construction, mining, manufacturing, or any place that involves heavy machinery. While companies have started to do a lot to ensure the safety of employees at the workplace, the first line of defense against industrial accidents is still the humble safety helmet.
Safety helmets are guardians of the skull. Most head injuries are caused by heavy or sharp objects falling on the head. Consequences may be severe, if not fatal if this happens to someone working without adequate head safety gear. Here are some reasons that highlight the safety helmet uses and importance.
Importance of Safety Helmets- Biggest Reasons
The most prominent safety helmet use is perhaps its role as a barrier against various mishaps. But that is not all; many other roles are played by safety helmets. There are various types of helmets used in construction and other industrial environments. Yet, the basic safety helmet assumes importance for universal reasons. Here's looking at some of the biggest ones.
Industrial Safety Helmets are Skull Guardian:
The most obvious of reasons, safety helmets protect the head from severe injury in case things fall on people’s heads. The right kind of safety helmet also protects against all kinds of liquid seepage and electric shocks.
Industrial Safety Helmets prevent the odd slip and fall:
Heavy industries are often designed in a manner that workers need to be careful while using factory-grade infrastructure or even just walking around. A lot of spaces are so densely packed with heavy machinery that an accident is just waiting to happen. Slips and falls are perhaps the most common sort of accidents, and would not be a worry if workers are wearing the right kind of headgear. A slip and fall, however, can be fatal for an unguarded head.
Industrial Safety Hats keep UV rays away:
Workers in several industries, especially in construction, have to work hours under the sun. The right safety helmet protects workers from the sunlight and affords them protection from numerous health issues. UV rays are responsible for a host of diseases, including cancer. Safety helmets, at least the good kind, are made with high-density polyethylene that is resistant to UV rays. Further, good helmets also have proper ventilation and sweatbands to prevent sweat from dripping down from the head onto the face.
Safety Hats help Identify employees:
Safety helmets, found in different colours, can help identify which employee belongs to which department. Some companies use helmets of different shades to identify architects, engineers, tradesmen, and crew. Green helmets are often used to identify safety officials while orange helmets are the go-to for visitors and vendors.
Providing the right kind of safety helmet is perhaps the singular most important service a company can provide to a worker. This is because head injuries, big or small, have the potential to cause irreparable damage. Helmets are typically made with polyethylene, fiberglass and heat and water-resistant plastic. The inner harness in a helmet works as a cushion between the outer layer and the head. Industrial-quality helmets also typically come with a strap. The strap ensures helmets don’t fall off and stay in the right place so that workers don’t get distracted in the middle of crucial or dangerous work.
To know more about safety helmets and to find helmets that suit your company’s specific needs, explore Safety Helmets online on L&T-SuFin.
This is a destination where buyers will discover varied types of helmets and all the options to take care of their requirements. From ventilated helmets to those with UV resistance, there are plenty of choices at hand.
Difference Between Steel Toe Shoes & Safety Shoe
There is increasing awareness regarding the need to use proper Steel Toe Safety Shoes in various industrial environments and workplaces. Steel Toe Boots are the most recognizable footwear whenever people talk about safety worker shoes. Most conventional safety shoes have steel toes as a standardized base feature. Yet, this technology has also gone through rapid evolution in recent times.
So are Safety Shoes and Steel Toe Shoes the same? If not, what are their differences? Read on to know more!
Steel Toe Safety Shoes
A Steel Toe Safety Shoe is a widely used form of safety or protective footwear for workers at various sites and industries.
Key Features of Steel Toe Safety Shoes:
- These shoes have an internal toe that is crafted from durable and rugged steel. It ensures adequate safety for the feet and toes, which are scientifically referred to as the phalange bones.
- Steel Toe Boots have an interior steel cap which is the game-changer.
Steel toe footwear ensures heightened safety from the heavy impact of things falling on one’s feet or knocks and bumps. Compression and punctures are two other things that are avoided with these kinds of shoes.
Working at industrial or construction sites means heavy risks for personnel. OSHA standards also mandate properly rated industrial safety footwear such as Steel Toe Shoes for both women and men.
Non-Steel Safety Boots
All Steel Toe Boots come under the safety toe category as well. However, not all safety industrial shoes are Steel Toe Shoes.
Key features of non-steel safety boots:
- All non-steel safety boots function similarly to the method mentioned above, i.e. rugged materials are positioned within the shoe’s toe box while making it look relatively conventional externally.
- However, safety shoes have hardened materials for protection such as carbon fiber, hard plastics, fiberglass, and alloy as well.
Based on their resistant strength, these non-steel safety shoes ensure protection from various risks.
Are these Two Types the Same?
From a functionality standpoint, the answer will be a resounding yes since Steel Toe Shoes are like regular industrial worker shoes.
Here are some differences worth noting:
- Safety shoes (non-steel) and Steel Toe Shoes are used for varying shoe types. Some shoe versions and models are more suitable for boxes that do not use steel. Many safety shoes are crafted from lighter materials, and safety shoes function suitably for hybrid options like sneakers for work such as safety shoes.
- Safety shoes may be heavy-duty options, while many additional facets have been integrated by leading companies for ensuring more comfortable shoes with steel toes that do not end up hurting one’s feet and ensure their protection as well. The non-steel safety shoes may offer superior insulation and more agility at times.
- Non-steel safety shoes are mostly lighter choices, and non-safety shoes may be more flexible and agile while ensuring protection. At the same time, durability may be higher for Steel Toe Shoes as per experts.
- Non-steel shoes, with superior insulation, may also be better options in extreme or fluctuating weather conditions.
- Various workplaces also necessitate steel toe worker boots, while some require other kinds of safety boots. Hence, this is another aspect worth noting in this regard.
Several kinds of safety shoes are available online at L&T-SUFIN. These include several varieties of safety footwear suitable for workers across diverse industries.
Top 5 Points to Remember while Buying Safety Shoes
Introduction to Safety Shoes
Most industries require their personnel to buy safety shoes. Safety shoes are specifically designed to be durable. These have heavy-duty materials, like steel, positioned within the toe box to protect them from damage. These shoes also protect the toes from sharp objects that may penetrate normal shoes, electric shocks, welding sprays, corrosive liquids, and more. The industries where employees must buy safety boots include construction, mining, agriculture, oil and gas, and other manufacturing/production sites.
Top 5 Factors to Consider while Buying Safety Shoes
Here are four things to keep in mind while you buy safety shoes online or in person:
Safety Shoes Fitting
Comfort is the key criterion when purchasing safety shoes. This is imperative since workers wear these shoes for long hours daily! These shoes should offer a snug fitting. It should also have moisture-absorbing material to prevent excessive sweating.
Safety Shoes Budget
One should ensure that they are getting adequate features for the price point of the safety shoe. Safety shoes should fulfill the requirements like ability to protect the feet to overall comfort. Therefore, while costlier, branded safety shoes are a better choice as they offer better quality.
Safety Shoes Exposure
Safety shoes must suit the specific industry-based requirements of the buyer. Make sure the shoes can withstand exposure to materials such as chemicals and other corrosive substances. PVC soles offer high durability and can withstand high temperatures. On the other hand, PU soles offer superior grip. Rubber outsoles can resist different chemicals. Hence, based on the industry requirement, one must select the material.
Safety assurance and standards
One should look for safety shoes that meet industry safety standards as mandated by regulatory bodies.
Replacement of Safety Shoes
While safety shoes typically have a long shelf life, it is important to be able to spot when it is time to buy a new pair. Worn-out safety shoes might expose the worker to the same risks that wearing regular shoes would. Replace the Safety shoes once the pair has started showing signs of wear and tear.
Safety is non-negotiable, which is why it is important to be careful while buying safety shoes. One must spot fakes or low-quality shoes that come without certifications. Find the best safety shoes at L&T-SUFIN, a one-stop solution for safety footwear!
Understand What Are Safety Shoes In Detail
Introduction to Safety Shoes
Safety shoes are one of the most crucial safety equipment for various high-risk industries. Safety shoes not only protect against slips and falls on uneven surfaces but also protect against corrosive chemicals. Hence, safety shoes for men and women come with tough internal materials and cover for heavy objects falling on the toes and other damages that often occur in industrial environments. They are often mandatory equipment for workers in many industries.
Types of Safety Shoes
Now that you know what are safety shoes, you should check out their diverse types. Worker shoes come in various shapes and sizes. Traditional safety boots have steel toes, while the more modern ones are made of several kinds of materials, including thermoplastics and aluminium. The prime criterion for choosing safety boots, however, is comfort.
The top three kinds of industrial safety boots available in the market are the following:
- Steel toe safety shoes
- Aluminum worker shoes
- Composite Toe shoes
Steel toe safety shoe:
Traditional safety boots come in steel. They are the most popular kind of industrial shoes. They offer durable protection, although they may transfer cold or heat.
Aluminium Safety Shoe:
Aluminium shoes are a more modern creation. Several new industries have adopted aluminium shoes for their workers. They are lighter but are also costlier in turn.
Composite Toe Safety Shoe:
Industrial boots made of composite and carbon fibers are the newest kind of safety shoe. They come with a string of benefits and maybe just the right option for the right type of industry. They are lighter and more flexible, non-magnetic, and can be adaptable to extreme temperatures. However, they are often bulkier than other types.
Types of outer soles used in safety shoes
There are many kinds of outsoles for work boots. Some of them include the following:
- Rubber offers good resistance to slippage and to oils and fuels of various kinds. It provides a good grip and comes with temperature resistance features.
- PU is lightweight and more comfortable while resisting chemical agents. However, this does not pertain to stronger acids. Yet, these shoes offer superior grip and protection from slippage.
- PVC can resist extreme cold temperatures, acids, and other chemical agents.
Risks associated with working in industrial setups
There are multiple risks arising from industrial environments and similar workplaces. Some of them are listed below:
- Industrial and chemical hazards
- Electric shocks
- Heavy objects dropping on the feet
- Extreme cold, water, and heat
- Punctures and cuts
- Stones, trunks, pipes, wheels, and other items roll over on the toes.
- Hazardous materials and sharper tools like axes, knives, nails, glasses, and others may lead to punctures and severe damages.
- Dead or live electrical cables or floors which may generate static electricity
Types of safety boots for each risk
Different worker shoes help people deal with different risks, such as:
- Heavy objects falling on the feet: Steel toe safety boots
- Punctures by sharp objects: Steel toe or aluminium safety boots
- Electrical shocks: Steel-toe safety boots
- Temperature fluctuations: Composite toe and carbon-fibre shoes
To access the best safety shoes across categories, check out safety shoes online at L&T-SuFin, a one-stop solution for all safety equipment across industries. This is the best place to find safety boots that suit your requirements and work environment.
Ultimate Guide to Buying an Angle Grinder in India 2023
A useful tool can do lots of great things. However, if you're planning to purchase one, you need to make the right choice.
Due to the availability of several angle grinder models, buying an angle grinder in India can be challenging, especially if your knowledge of the tool is limited.
In this post, we've gathered useful information to help you buy the best angle grinder for your needs and usage pattern.
So, read on to know all about it.
Types of Angle Grinders
Corded Angle Grinder:
To use this type of grinder, you need to plug it into an electric outlet. As it is lightweight and easy to move, you can use it in your home workshop or construction site. The major benefit of this type of grinder is that you can perform your work for a longer time. However, it requires a power outlet, and it isn't portable. Make sure you don't damage the power cord when using it.
Cordless Angle Grinder:
You can carry it anywhere and perform many tasks with it. Though it runs on batteries, you can use it for any heavy-duty grinding job without worrying about the wire getting tangled. Cordless grinders are beneficial during work at height on ladder and scaffolding as it avoids trip hazard due to trailing wires. But you must be careful while using it since the battery needs charging every few hours.
Pneumatic Angle Grinder:
These grinders use compressed air as a power source. Therefore, these types of grinders are suitable for industrial projects. Compared to other grinders, these are lighter in weight and easy to maneuver. Additionally, these grinders are safer as there won’t be any heating issues or risks of a short circuit. For any high-precision jobs, you can easily rely on these types of grinders.
Usage and Application of Angle Grinders
Angle grinders are used in almost every industry, starting from construction sites, fabrication units, metalworking shops, garages, and any mechanical workshop.
Some of the common uses of angle grinders are
- Removing metals, sharp edges, burrs, cutting or shaping metal objects, etc.
- For cleaning and polishing metal surfaces.
- Removal of rust from metal surfaces.
- Shaping metal pieces or creating decorative edges on metal objects or wooden surfaces.
- For polishing flat surfaces like tiles, wood products, etc.
Things to Consider While Buying Angle Grinders
As an angle grinder is a power tool, you cannot use angle grinders in every place. So, you need to consider certain factors while buying an angle grinder.
Angle Grinders Disc Size:
The strength of the grinder is directly proportional to the disc size. Based on your application, you need to select the right disc size.
Commonly available and popular disc sizes are 4.5 inches to 9 inches. However, it is preferable to use bigger discs for larger grinding jobs. Similarly, you can use small ones for small and precise tasks with a smaller surface area.
Angle Grinders Speed Ratings:
The speed rating divides grinders into speed classes specific to heavy-duty and low-speed grinding jobs. Generally, small-disc grinders run at a higher rpm than bigger-disc grinders.
Handheld grinders operate at higher RPM ratings from 5000-10000. Higher speed ratings suit heavy-duty material removal jobs, whereas lower speed ratings are best for simple polishing jobs or precise work surfaces.
Handling Comfort of Angle Grinders:
If you want to do grinding jobs for a long time or regularly, you must choose a grinder with excellent handling comfort. Choosing a comfortable grinder gives you a better grip and control and thus makes it easier to use. It depends on two things: weight and size. You should consider both factors to ensure the most comfortable handling experience.
If an angle grinder has an anti-vibration handle, it increases your handling comfort levels even more. Due to the anti-vibration handle, the vibration levels remain low, which allows the user to work for a long time without fatigue. Also, can do your job with more precision and reliability.
Power source for Angle Grinders:
While choosing an angle grinder for domestic or professional use, you must consider the power source. Depending on your usage pattern, you can choose the right power source. 110v models are mostly used for site works, and for home usage, 240v tools are great.
Safety features of Angle Grinders:
Last but certainly not least is the safety aspect of an angle grinder. While these tools are extremely useful, they are potentially dangerous and can cause severe injury if used incorrectly or carelessly. So, consider all the safety features while buying an angle grinder.
A reliable angle grinder has safety features like kickback control, an automatic cut-off switch, a slow-start function, a paddle switch, a left-right handle adjustment, an anti-vibration handle, and more. These safety features on the grinder help minimize the accidents and injuries that may arise while using the tool.
Takeaway:
Understanding your requirements and considering the features are essential before buying an angle grinder. L&T SuFin offers a wide range of angle grinders with top-notch functionality and safety features. Check out our website to get your ideal grinding tool.
Best Fire Extinguisher for Home – Choose the Right One for Safety
It is said that fire is a good servant but a bad master. This saying stands true as fire is of extreme use in all places, but when uncontrolled, it can lead to destruction. The solution? Be prepared for such emergencies. How? Have a fire safety plan, and the very first thing that a fire safety plan calls for is a fire extinguisher. Learn about the best fire extinguishers for home, their uses and functionality in this blog.
Why Do You Need the Best Fire Extinguisher for Home?
Many people consider home fire protection unimportant because they associate this responsibility with industrial facilities and business premises. This is the reason why many homes are not equipped with a fire extinguisher. However, with fires breaking out more often these days, it's definitely not something one should ignore anymore.
Choose the best extinguisher for home. It allows you to take control of a small fire and prevent it from spreading further. Thus, it is an affordable and efficient safety tool that is easy to use.
Choosing the Best Fire Extinguisher for House
Step 1: Choose Primary Fire Extinguishers
These are the best in-home fire extinguishers for different areas of your house.
| Area | Recommended Extinguisher | Purpose |
| Living Area | 2-A:10-B:C (Class A-B-C) | Covers common household fires. Place one on every level, no more than 40 feet apart. |
| Garage/Workshop | 3-A:40-B:C (Class A-B-C) | Handles flammable liquid fires commonly found in garages. |
Step 2: Choose Supplementary Fire Extinguishers
These are additional extinguishers for high-risk areas.
| Area | Recommended Extinguisher | Purpose |
| Kitchen | 711A | Helps stop kitchen fires before they spread. |
| Electrical | 1-A:10-B: C (Class B-C) | Designed for fires involving electrical equipment. |
When to Use Fire Extinguishers
Only use a fire extinguisher when:
- All residents have been evacuated from the home
- Read the instructions carefully and make sure you are familiar with how to use the extinguisher.
- There is an easy exit behind the person using the extinguisher.
- The room shouldn’t be filled with smoke.
- In case of a bigger fire, make sure the fire department has been notified
The Best Overall Home Fire Extinguisher
Now the biggest question: What is the best fire extinguisher for home use? The answer to this is: ABC Dry Powder Fire extinguisher!
Here are the pros of using a dry powder extinguisher:
- They are reliable, sturdy and versatile.
- If you are looking for a multi-purpose fire extinguisher, this is the best option.
- Can be used on Class A fires (wood, paper, cloth)
- Can be used for Class B Fires (flammable liquids)
- Can be used for Class C fires (flammable gases)
- These extinguishers can also be used on electrical equipment sometimes.
While there is a long list of pros for an ABC extinguisher, there is also a con, and that is the mess it leaves behind.
Wrapping Up
Sometimes, the right knowledge and a good fire extinguisher are the only two things that make a difference between a small fire and a big disaster. Having a fire extinguisher at your home makes sure your loved ones are safe at all times. Now that you know your home even needs a fire extinguisher, we are sure you would want to choose the best household fire extinguisher. You can do this by simply choosing from among the high-quality fire extinguishers available at L&T-Sufin. Stay safe, stay prepared!
FAQs
Which brand of fire extinguisher is best?
One of the best brands for fire extinguishers is Safex Fire Services Limited. Established in 1972, this brand has many years of experience and has spread its network widely.
What kind of fire extinguisher is used in a domestic house?
For households, you should choose A, B or C fire extinguishers. The best option would be to go for an ABC Dry Powder extinguisher as it serves the purpose for all three
Is a CO2 fire extinguisher good for your home?
Yes. A CO2 extinguisher is considered good for households as it can be used to tackle electrical fires.
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Types of Fire Extinguishers & Safety Tips for Every Fire Class
Fire was one of the most important inventions ever made by human civilisation. Still, no matter how important it was to the advent of civilisation, there’s no question about the fact that fire is as dangerous as it is useful. In such a scenario, homes, offices, and other places must be fully equipped to put out a fire in case one breaks out.
Here, a fire extinguisher can make the difference between life and death; A fire extinguisher is one of the most important safety devices in a commercial facility. Operations depend on these fire extinguishers, in the event or rather the possibility, of a fire breaking out in a business place.
Let us understand the different types of fire extinguishers, their usage and benefits in detail.
Classes of Fires & Fire Extinguishers
There aren’t one, but a total of five types of fires, each categorised based on the type of fuel and circumstances, they are:
- Class A: Common solid burnables, which include paper, wood, fabric, and various plastics.
- Class B: Flammable substances including alcohol, ether, oil, gasoline and grease.
- Class C: Fire caused by electric appliances.
- Class D: Combustible metals like Sodium, Titanium, Zirconium, Aluminium, and Potassium.
- Class K: Fires caused by cooking grease or oil.
Fire extinguishers are divided into four classes based on the types of fires. The various classes of fire extinguishers are:
1. Type A
It is a type of pressurised water extinguisher ideal for Class A fires. Using it on Class B or C fires could lead to electrical shock or fire spread.
2. Type ABC
A dry powder-like chemical which is effective on all types of fires.
3. Type BC
Carbon dioxide is only to be used on chemical or electrical fires.
4. Type K
It should be used in case of a kitchen or a grease fire.
Types of Fire Extinguishers
Based on the above classifications, there are different types of fire extinguishers on the market. The different fire extinguisher types are:.
Water Fire Extinguisher
A water fire extinguisher is one of the most common and simple extinguisher types used for fires. It helps delay the fire until it goes out entirely by chilling the flames and soaking the burning items. Class A fires, which include burning paper, wood, cloth, and plastic, are ideal for these extinguishers. They are safe and require little maintenance since they just contain water. They are rather common in areas like offices, hospitals, hotels, warehouses, and colleges. You can usually find them close to exits on flooring prone to Class A fires. The fire caused by oil, fat, metals, or electrical appliances should not be utilized, though.
This water fire extinguisher comes in several sub-categories. For instance, the water spray extinguishers have spray nozzles that help cover a greater area. Little water particles released by water mist extinguishers form a mist that helps put out the fire and simultaneously shields the user from heat. Certain water extinguishers even feature unique chemicals that increase their potency while maintaining their weightlessness.
CO2 Extinguisher
Usually, the common type of fire extinguisher supplied in computer server rooms, a CO2 fire extinguisher for electrical fire hazards. It also extinguishes Class B flames. It substitutes the oxygen from the flame, reducing the intensity of the fire. The black label on this kind of extinguisher represents that it is designed for Class B and Class C fires.
However, CO2 extinguishers get quite cold during discharge, and those without double-lined, frost-free swivel horns could cause fingers to freeze during usage. Although they are not suitable for deep-fat fryers because the strong jet can spread burning fat, they can smother fires in small areas. Once the CO2 has disappeared into the sky, fires can rapidly re-ignite and hence do not provide post-fire protection.
Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher
Since this can be used for Class A, Class B, and Class C fires, the conventional dry chemical powder fire extinguisher is also known as an ABC extinguisher.
These types of fire extinguishers should not be used in enclosed areas, though, since the extinguisher's dry powder is readily breathed in. Once the fire is out, it also becomes difficult to clear the residual mess. These are also applicable to fires involving electrical machinery. Usually used for Class D fires resulting from combustible metals, there are also specific dry powder extinguishers. This sort of extinguisher has a blue label.
They act by the powder, creating a crust that smothers the fire and prevents its spread. The powder does not soak into materials and does not have a strong cooling impact on the flames, which can cause the fire to flare back on. If inhaled, the powder is dangerous; hence, it should be utilized in well-ventilated spaces and not appropriate for homes or offices. The powder ruins machinery, soft furniture, etc., and requires a lot of cleaning following use.
Foam Fire Extinguisher
Class B fires typically call for these most often used types of fire extinguishers. These are water-based, though, hence they can also be used for Class A fires. The label is cream in hue. These fire extinguishers will work on fires caused by a variety of organic materials like wood, coal, textiles, fabrics, cardboard and paper, and also flammable liquids like gasoline and paints.
A foam fire extinguisher is more expensive than other types of extinguishers. It leaves a residue that can be cleaned up afterwards.
Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher
Wet chemical extinguishers are intended for use on fats and cooking oils. Using a damp chemical extinguisher for a Class K fire involving cooking oils and fats is the best choice. They are made up of pressurised water solutions of alkali salts that, when in operation, create a mist that not only cools the flame but also prevents the absorption of water by the fire.
Additionally, Class A fires can also be extinguished using a wet chemical fire extinguisher. However, foam or water extinguishers are more widely utilized.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the different types of fire extinguishers is essential. This knowledge helps determine the kinds and levels of fire each extinguisher can handle. Despite the varied classifications of the extinguishers, each is designed for specific fire types. So safeguard yourself and your space from any unforeseen fire accident by ordering an appropriate fire extinguisher from L&T Suffin today. Stay Safe.
FAQs
What is in a CO2 fire extinguisher?
In a CO2 fire extinguisher, there is compressed CO2 gas, which is released when you press the nozzle.
What is the full form of CO2?
Carbon Dioxide is also called CO2, which is a colourless, odourless gas used in fire extinguishers to smother flames.
What is a D-class fire?
Fires which are caused by flammable metals like sodium and potassium are often called D-class fires.
What are the types of fire extinguishers?
There are five types of fire extinguishers:
- Water Fire extinguisher
- CO2 extinguisher
- Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher
- Foam Fire Extinguisher
- Wet Chemical fire extinguisher
Each of which is used for a different kind of fire.
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Tips To Choose Right type of Fire Extinguisher
Fire safety has become a big concern for all Indian businesses. With fire accidents killing nearly 10,000 Indians every year coupled with the financial damage they cause; companies are taking an increasingly strict view of fire safety.
One of the basic building blocks of making a property fire-safe is installing fire extinguishers. But there are no one-size-fits-all fire extinguishers.
The best fire extinguisher will determine the loss a business will suffer due to fire accidents. Therefore, a business must do its due diligence while deciding on the type of fire extinguisher it needs.
Here are a few tips to decide on the best fire extinguisher for home and business:
Fire extinguisher classes.
There are several types of fire extinguishers out there in the market. To make it easier for people to buy the best type of fire extinguisher exactly suited to their needs, they have been categorized. These are the various fire extinguisher classes one needs to bear in mind while choosing the best fire extinguisher for their home or business:
Class A fire extinguishers
These are suited to putting out fires caused by regular combustible substances such as paper and wood.
Class B fire extinguishers
These helps put out fires typically caused by flammable liquids such as petroleum products, grease and oil.
Class C fire extinguishers
These are designed to put out electrical fires. So, if a building is susceptible to short circuits and fire hazards of this kind, class C fire extinguishers help to keep fire accidents at bay.
Class D fire extinguishers
These are designed to fight fires caused by flammable metals.
While these are the different types of fire extinguishers available in the market, it is not enough to just know the classes of fire extinguishers. One also must bear in mind that every person accessing the building should have adequate fire safety training and know how to use fire extinguishers.
Here’s a quick guide on how to use fire extinguishers:
- All types of fire extinguishers come with a pin. To use a fire extinguisher, one must first pull the pin to break the tamper seal.
- Next, the person using the fire extinguisher should point the extinguisher directly at the base of the fire aimed at a low angle.
- Then, the user of the fire extinguisher should squeeze the handle of the extinguisher to release the extinguishing agent. The extinguishing agent inside a fire extinguisher will be determined by the class to which a particular fire extinguisher belongs.
- The fire extinguisher should then be moved side to side and pointed to the base of the fire until the fire is extinguished. Usually, one unit of a fire extinguisher will function for 10-15 seconds.
- If the fire reignites, one needs to repeat the four steps mentioned above.
As mentioned above, the extinguishing agent inside a fire extinguisher will depend on the type of fire extinguisher one has bought from the market.
Here is a list of the typical extinguishing agents put in fire extinguishers:
- Water and foam
- Dry chemical.
- Carbon dioxide.
- Wet chemical.
- Cleaning agent.
- Dry powder.
- Water mist.
- Cartridge-operated dry chemical.
Fire accidents can be fatal for people as well as businesses. Therefore, it is critical that one buys the best type of fire extinguisher to protect from fire hazards.
Additionally, one must also ensure that fire extinguisher is in places where they are easy to access. There is usually very little time to react when there is a fire accident. Therefore, all fire safety equipment must be kept in places that are easy to locate.
If you’re looking for the right type of fire extinguisher for your business or home, head over to:
https://lntsufin.coffeeinc.in/catalog/Safety-Products/Fire-Fighting/Fire-Extinguishers/
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