Fire Extinguishers for Stairways

Stairways contain limited fire risks, but as it forms part of the escape route it is one of the most accessible places to find an extinguisher.

Stairways usually contain more solid combustibles such as carpets and wooden furniture, however it is important that you analyse the surrounding risks in rooms leading from the stairways and hallways in case these extinguishers are needed.

Extinguisher guide for stairways
For fires involving live electrical equipment such as computer workstations, monitors and electrical cooking appliances, we would recommend a CO2 extinguisher. Class B Fire Risks Electrical Fire Risk
Advantage:Disadvantage:
CO2 extinguishers contains a clean extinguisher agent which does not leave behind any harmful residue or cause secondary damage. CO2 extinguishers can not be used on solid fuel burning fires, such as wood, paper and textiles.CO2 is an asphyxiant  when used in confined spaces.
Other Suitable Extinguishers
Powder Fire Extinguishers Class A Fire Risks Class B Fire Risks Class C fFire Risks Electrical Fire Risks
Advantage: Disadvantage:
Powder extinguishers have an ABC rating which means they can be used on solid, liquid and gas burning fires and because they are not conductive of electricity, they can safely be used on electrical fires. Powder extinguishers cause a lot of mess when used and create a lot of secondary damage. Can also impair visibility when used in small areas.
For general fire risks we would recommend a foam fire extinguisher, foam extinguishers are ideal for both class A and B fires .  Class A Fire Risks Class B Fire Risks
Advantage:Disadvantage:
Foam extinguishers have excellent surface penetration and prevent the re-ignition of burning substances. Foam extinguisher do not impare visabilty
Foam extinguisher cannot be used on electrical equipment.
Other Suitable Extinguishers
Powder Fire Extinguishers Class A Fire Risks Class B Fire Risks Class C fFire Risks Electrical Fire Risks
Advantage: Disadvantage:
Powder extinguishers have an extremely fast knockdown time and because they are not conductive of electricity they can safely be used on electrical fires. Powder extinguishers are very messy and can create a lot of secondary damage. Powder does no prvent re-ingnition of flammable liquids.
For fires involving solid materials such as wood, we would recommend a water extinguisher.
Class A Fire Risks
Advantage:Disadvantage:
Water extinguishers offer excellent cooling properties, are one of the cheapest extinguishers and are environmentally friendly.
Water extinguishers have a limited use and cannot be used on flammable liquids, gases or live electrical equipment

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