Fire extinguisher support

Fire extinguisher stands are essential to ensure that fire-fighting equipment is always accessible and in good working order. There are different types of stands depending on the location and type of extinguisher. Here are some common options:

Floor Stands

  1. Metal Stand: Usually made of painted or galvanized steel, it is robust and suitable for indoor environments. It can have a base fixed to the floor or be secured with anchors.
  2. Adjustable Stand: Allows the size to be adjusted to accommodate different types and sizes of extinguishers. Ideal for locations where the type of extinguisher may vary.
  3. Stand with Castors: Facilitates the transport of the extinguisher, making it useful for environments where the extinguisher may need to be moved frequently.

Wall Mounts

  1. L-Bracket: Fixed directly to the wall, usually made of metal or resistant plastic. Keeps the extinguisher fixed and accessible but may not be ideal for environments where the extinguisher needs to be accessed from multiple angles.
  2. Mount with Adjustable Arms: Allows the extinguisher to be fixed in different positions, offering more flexibility in storage.
  3. Plastic or Fibre Mount: Lighter and frequently used in indoor and dry environments. Ideal for applications where the extinguisher will not be subject to adverse conditions.

Vehicle Mounts

  1. Aluminium Mount: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, ideal for vehicles. Generally designed to secure the extinguisher safely during movement.
  2. Coated Steel Mount: Offers greater durability and impact resistance. May include specific fastening devices for vehicles.
  3. Mount with Clamp or Strap: Includes straps or clamps to ensure the extinguisher is well fixed and secure during transport.

General Considerations

  • Certification and Standards: Ensure that the stand complies with local safety standards and fire-fighting regulations.
  • Ease of Access: The stand must allow quick and easy access to the extinguisher in an emergency.
  • Durability and Maintenance: Choose materials and designs that resist wear and tear and require little maintenance.

The fire extinguisher must be visible and easily accessible, positioned in a marked and unobstructed location. It must be fixed on a suitable support, with the top part no more than 1.20m from the floor and the bottom part at least 20cm from the floor. It is important that it is securely fastened to prevent falls, but in such a way that it can be quickly removed in an emergency. The surrounding area must be free of obstacles to ensure quick access. Regularly check the validity and condition of the fire extinguisher to ensure its proper functioning.

Validity and Rejection Conditions of Fire Extinguishers.

Annual Maintenance of Portable Fire Extinguishers
The maintenance of portable fire extinguishers must be carried out annually to ensure their effectiveness in emergency situations. Water, water-based, foam and dry powder extinguishers have a lifespan of 20 years and require recharging every 5 years. CO2 extinguishers, in turn, have a lifespan of 30 years and must be refilled every 10 years and subjected to a hydraulic test on their body.

Adequate Distribution of Extinguishers
In all typical uses, except in typical use I (residential) of the 1st and 2nd risk categories, extinguishers must be properly sized and distributed. The maximum distance to travel between the exit of a risk area and the nearest extinguisher must not exceed 15 meters, thus ensuring quick accessibility in case of fire.

Criteria for Rejection of Extinguishers

Companies that carry out the maintenance of extinguishers must be certified in accordance with Standard 4413/2006, ensuring professional qualification and technical suitability of the facilities. Extinguisher maintenance is prohibited in the following circumstances:

  • Lack of CE Marking: Extinguishers manufactured after 1999 without CE marking.
  • Absence of Pressure Test Mark: Extinguishers that do not have a pressure test mark.
  • Lack of Manufacturer Identification: Extinguishers without manufacturer identification.
  • Incomplete Information: Extinguishers that do not show type, series or batch, manufacturing number and manufacturing year.
  • Chemical Foam Extinguishers: Not permitted for maintenance.
  • Soda-Acid Extinguishers: Use acid-base chemical reaction to generate pressure.
  • Dented Extinguishers: Extinguishers that show dents.
  • Inadequate Activation Methods: Extinguishers that need to be inverted or struck against the ground.
  • Unavailable Components: Extinguishers whose original or replacement components are no longer available on the market.
  • Legal Regulation: Extinguishers that, by law, cannot be on the market.
  • Disposable Body: Extinguishers with a disposable body without an expiry date or with an expired date.
  • Inadequate Color: Extinguishers that are not red.
  • Improvised Repairs: Extinguishers with signs of repair by welding, soldering or cutting.
  • Thread Damage: Extinguishers with damaged body or thread fillets.
  • Corrosion: Extinguishers that show corrosion.
  • Fire Damage: Extinguishers that suffered damage during a fire.

Importance of Certification in Extinguisher Maintenance

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of extinguishers, maintenance must be carried out by certified companies in accordance with Standard 4413/2006. This certification ensures that procedures are performed by qualified professionals and with the necessary technical equipment.

Conclusion

Keeping extinguishers in good condition is essential for safety in any environment. Make sure that maintenance is carried out annually and that the extinguishers are properly distributed and identified, following all applicable standards and regulations. For more information on extinguisher maintenance and necessary certifications, consult a fire safety specialist.

Various types of Extinguisher

Extintor certificado

Certified fire extinguisher

The use of fire extinguishers is fundamental for safety in any environment,...