All About CO2 fire extinguishers | Are They Used In Australia?
Remember, fire extinguishers should only be used by trained personnel, and it is important to follow all safety guidelines and regulations when using a fire extinguisher.
CO2 fire extinguishers are commonly used in Australia as they are suitable for use on Class B (flammable liquid) and Class E (electrical) fires. They work by displacing oxygen and smothering the fire, rather than cooling it down like other types of extinguishers. CO2 fire extinguishers are also relatively clean, leaving no residue behind after use, making them ideal for use in areas where sensitive electronic equipment or machinery is present.
However, it is important to note that CO2 fire extinguishers are not suitable for use on Class A (solid combustibles) fires, such as wood, paper or textiles. In these instances, a water or foam fire extinguisher may be more appropriate. It is recommended that you consult with a licensed fire protection professional to ensure that you have the appropriate fire extinguisher for your specific needs and that it is installed and maintained in accordance with local regulations and standards.
How do you use a CO2 fire extinguisher in Australia?
Here are the general steps on how to use a CO2 fire extinguisher in Australia:
- Assess the fire: Before using a fire extinguisher, make sure that the fire is small and contained. If the fire is spreading rapidly or if there is excessive smoke, evacuate the area immediately and call the emergency services.
- Pull the safety pin: The first step in using a CO2 fire extinguisher is to pull the safety pin located on the handle. This will break the tamper seal and release the locking mechanism.
- Aim at the base of the fire: Aim the nozzle of the extinguisher at the base of the fire, rather than the flames themselves. This will help to smother the fire more effectively.
- Squeeze the handle: Squeeze the handle of the extinguisher to release the CO2 gas. Use a sweeping motion to cover the entire area of the fire. Do not stand too close to the fire, as the extreme cold of the CO2 gas can cause frostbite.
- Monitor the fire: After using the extinguisher, monitor the area for any signs of re-ignition. If the fire reignites, use the extinguisher again or evacuate the area immediately.
- Call for assistance: Even if you have successfully extinguished the fire, it is important to call the emergency services to ensure that the fire is fully under control and to minimize the risk of re-ignition.
If you are unsure about how to use a CO2 fire extinguisher or if you have any concerns about fire safety, contact a licensed fire protection professional for assistance.
Are CO2 extinguishers still used?
Yes, CO2 (carbon dioxide) fire extinguishers are still commonly used today. They are a reliable and effective option for extinguishing fires that involve flammable liquids or electrical equipment.
CO2 extinguishers work by displacing oxygen, which helps to smother the fire. They are especially useful in situations where water or other types of extinguishing agents may be ineffective or even dangerous to use, such as in areas with electrical equipment or where there is a risk of damaging sensitive equipment or machinery.
CO2 fire extinguishers are often used in industrial and commercial settings, as well as in homes and vehicles. They are also frequently used in areas such as server rooms, laboratories, and data centers where electronic equipment is present.
It’s important to note that while CO2 extinguishers are effective for certain types of fires, they are not suitable for all types of fires. It’s important to select the right type of fire extinguisher for the specific fire hazard, and to receive proper training on how to use it. Consulting with a licensed fire protection professional is recommended to ensure you have the right fire extinguishers installed and maintained in accordance with local regulations and standards.
Is the ABC extinguisher the same as CO2?
No, an ABC fire extinguisher is not the same as a CO2 fire extinguisher.
An ABC fire extinguisher is a multipurpose extinguisher that can be used on fires involving Class A (solid combustibles such as wood or paper), Class B (flammable liquids such as gasoline or oil), and Class C (electrical fires) hazards. ABC extinguishers usually contain dry chemical powder as the extinguishing agent.
On the other hand, CO2 fire extinguishers are specifically designed for Class B (flammable liquid) and Class E (electrical) fires. They use carbon dioxide gas as the extinguishing agent, which displaces oxygen and helps to smother the fire. CO2 extinguishers are often used in situations where water or other types of extinguishing agents may be ineffective or even dangerous to use, such as in areas with electrical equipment or where there is a risk of damaging sensitive equipment or machinery.
Do I need a CO2 fire extinguisher?
Whether or not you need a CO2 fire extinguisher depends on the specific fire hazards that you are facing. CO2 fire extinguishers are generally recommended for use in situations where there is a risk of Class B (flammable liquid) or Class E (electrical) fires.
If you have electrical equipment or machinery in your home or workplace, a CO2 fire extinguisher may be a good choice to help protect against electrical fires. Similarly, if you work with or store flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oil, or solvents, a CO2 extinguisher can be an effective tool for extinguishing fires involving these types of materials.
It is important to note, however, that CO2 extinguishers are not suitable for all types of fire hazards. For example, they should not be used on Class A (solid combustible) fires, such as wood, paper or textiles. In these instances, a water or foam fire extinguisher may be more appropriate.
To determine whether or not you need a CO2 fire extinguisher, it is recommended that you consult with a licensed fire protection professional. They can help assess your fire risks and recommend the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers needed to protect your property and ensure compliance with local regulations and standards.
Is CO2 fire extinguisher good for home?
If you have electrical equipment or appliances in your home, such as computers, televisions, or kitchen appliances, a CO2 extinguisher can be an effective tool for extinguishing electrical fires. CO2 extinguishers are non-conductive, which means they are safe to use on electrical equipment and will not cause damage.
CO2 extinguishers are also effective for extinguishing fires involving flammable liquids, such as gasoline or oil. This makes them a good choice for use in garages or workshops where flammable liquids may be present. However, it’s important to note that CO2 extinguishers are not suitable for all types of fires. They are not effective on Class A (solid combustible) fires, such as wood or paper, and should not be used to extinguish fires involving cooking oils or fats, as the high temperatures can cause the oil to reignite.
If you are considering purchasing a fire extinguisher for your home, it’s important to consult with a licensed fire protection professional to determine the specific fire hazards that you are facing and to select the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers needed to protect your property and ensure compliance with local regulations and standards.
How long does a 5kg CO2 extinguisher last?
The duration of a 5kg CO2 fire extinguisher depends on the rate of discharge and the size of the fire. A 5kg CO2 fire extinguisher can typically discharge for around 15-20 seconds before running out of gas. However, this may vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer.
It’s important to note that CO2 fire extinguishers are intended for use on small to medium size fires. In the case of a larger fire, the extinguisher may be emptied before the fire is completely extinguished.
In addition, the effectiveness of a fire extinguisher depends on proper maintenance and storage. Fire extinguishers should be properly inspected, serviced and recharged annually, or after any use, to ensure that they are in good working condition and ready for use in case of an emergency. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and receive proper training on how to use a CO2 fire extinguisher to ensure safe and effective operation in case of a fire.
In Conclusion
CO2 fire extinguishers can be a good choice for use in the home or workplace, particularly in situations where there is a risk of electrical fires or fires involving flammable liquids. The duration of a 5kg CO2 fire extinguisher depends on the rate of discharge and the size of the fire, and it’s important to have proper training on how to use a CO2 fire extinguisher and to consult with a licensed fire protection professional to ensure the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers needed for your specific fire risks. Proper maintenance and storage of fire extinguishers is also essential to ensure their effectiveness in case of an emergency.
