In this article, we will explain: the requirements regarding travel distances. The purpose of this measure is to establish the maximum distance a person must travel to obtain a portable fire extinguisher.
When setting up with several extinguishers, the travel distance dictates the distances between the different extinguishers. In short, it represents the time required to respond to the onset of a fire.
We assume that you have selected the right type and size of portable fire extinguisher beforehand. For more information on selection, visit https://extinguishersmontreal.ca
Summary of distances to fire extinguisher types.
The travel distances vary mainly according to the type of fire and the strength of the extinguisher chosen. The distances relative to fire types are as follows:
For Type A fire (wood, paper) the maximum distance to obtain an extinguisher should not exceed 75 ft (22.86 m).
For Class B (flammable liquids) fires, the maximum travel distance should not exceed 50 ft [12.25 m] [with a minimum of one 10 lb extinguisher].
For Class K (commercial kitchen) fires, the maximum travel distance should not exceed 30 ft (9.15 m).
For Class D (metal fires), the maximum travel distance should not exceed 75 feet (22.86 m).
Travel distance.
A simple way to calculate distances is to temporarily place your first fire extinguisher and measure how far you can go within the limit. If you need a second extinguisher, you place it temporarily and measure the distances you can travel. For large warehouses, you will have to do this several times. The ultimate goal is to be able to confirm that no matter where you are located you are respecting the maximum travel distances.
Plan B
When installing your fire extinguishers try to have a plan B. This will give you a concise alternative for the second portable extinguisher. Who knows, allow a colleague to come and help you. In addition, bring the extinguishers closer to high-risk areas, such as electrical panels, production lines, storage cabinets for flammable liquids. Be careful not to put them too close, they must remain accessible in case of fire. How many times have I noticed an extinguisher installed within 1 foot of an electrical panel! In addition to being non-transferable, it can be dangerous. Imagine the scenario if the extinguisher is heated, it is a pressurized container.
A Strategic Location
If your building is equipped with a manual fire alarm station, we strongly recommend that you install a fire extinguisher nearby. In the event of a fire, go to the extinguisher and activate the station. The evacuation is triggered and you alert the fire brigade. Always remember that a portable fire extinguisher contains a limited amount of extinguishing agent. Firefighters are much better equipped than you are, however, they need time to get to your home.
Other tricks.
Good fire extinguisher technicians often have to be good listeners and patient when installing fire extinguishers. Indeed, since it is necessary to fix them solidly to the wall. In practice, the choice of location is often a matter for discussion.
This is particularly the case for luxurious offices or large corporate receptions. Some walls or spaces are untouchable. Administrators have often called on designers or decorators. You’ll be hard-pressed to ransack their efforts.
We recommend that you talk to the people in place and suggest alternatives. You can minimize the visual impact by suggesting less flashy places that respect maximum travel distances. Once accepted. Recalculate your travel distances and add another fire extinguisher if necessary. Don’t wait too long and install your extinguisher before he/she changes his/her mind.
Of course, most fire extinguishers are painted in red. That’s enough to make decorators blush with anger. Moreover, they should be installed in places that are visible to everyone. To reconcile these two diametrically opposed points of view, I suggest some little tricks. You can suggest the installation of a built-in cabinet (EC5). These cabinets can be painted or you can opt for the stainless-steel deluxe version (EC5ST). You can suggest chrome extinguishers when available. If you recess fire extinguishers, you can add signs to compensate for the lack of visibility.
Tape measure and level.
Try to install your fire extinguishers as symmetrically as possible. Observe the immediate environment and install on recall lines. For example, if you spot a piece of furniture close to 49″ high, find the height that matches that piece of furniture. For sings, place them at the height of the outgoing light fixtures or just above the door frame. In this case, the line of the door frame acts as a low recall line. Try to standardize the installation heights, take out your tape measure and your level!
You can call on Sylprotec to install your portable fire extinguishers. In addition, Sylprotec offers in-store or via its online shopping site, hooks for all models of portable extinguishers, cabinets to secure portable extinguishers and signs to better locate them.
Sylprotec offers these services in the Greater Montreal area, including Laval and the North Shore of Montreal. The services are subject to travel expenses, prices are available on their website under the service tab.
Sylvain Patrice f.p.t.
Your safety is our priority.
By the same author:
The rules regarding the height at which your portable fire extinguishers must be attached.
How many fire extinguishers do I need to install and what size extinguisher should I choose?
Steps for performing an inspection on portable fire extinguishers.
Emergency lighting the principles of operation.
Signage in an industrial environment.
The safety helmet is an indispensable piece of protective equipment.