How Many Extinguishers are Required?
There are four topics to review when installing portable fire extinguishers. You must first identify the
hazards that are present, and recognize even trace amounts of each fire classification to determine
the proper number of extinguishers required. Next, you must determine the size of the fire
extinguisher, and establish the quantity of extinguishers needed by the coverage allowed per Local
and National fire codes. Last, you must distribute the portable fire extinguishers per the allowable
travel distance to each fire extinguisher.
Class A Locations
Light (Low) Extra (High)
Ordinary (Moderate)
Criteria Hazard Hazard
Hazard Occupancy
Occupancy Occupancy
Minimum Rated single
2-A 2-A 4-A
extinguisher
Maximum floor area
3,000 ft2 1,500 ft2 1,000 ft2
per unit of A
Maximum floor area
11,250 ft2 11,250 ft2 11,250 ft2
for extinguisher
Maximum travel
distance to 75 ft 75 ft 75 ft
extinguisher
Source: NFPA 10, 2007 edition Table 6.2.1.1 Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class A
Hazards
Class B Locations
Basic Minimum Extinguisher Maximum Travel Distance to
Type of Hazard
Rating Extinguisher
5-B 30 ft
Light (Low) 10-B 50 ft
10-B 30 ft
Ordinary
20-B 50 ft
(Moderate)
40-B 30 ft
Extra (High) 80-B 50 ft
Source: NFPA 10, 2007 edition Table 6.3.1.1 Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class B
Hazards
Class C Locations
Class C extinguishers are required where energized electrical equipment is directly involved in or
surrounding electrical equipment.
Class D Locations
Class D extinguisher locations shall not be located more than 75 ft. from the hazard. Size
determination for Class D locations is based on the specific combustible metal, particle size, area to
be covered, and manufacturer recommendations.
Class K Locations
Class K hazards shall have a fire extinguisher located where there is a potential for a fire involving
combustible cooking media (vegetable or animal oils and fats). The extinguisher shall be located no
more than 30 ft. from the hazard.
NFPA 10 requires you to maintain your fire protection equipment in good working order and maintain
inspection,
testing and maintenance records. Inspections will be performed on an Annual basis.
EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED DURING AN INSPECTION
INCLUDE:
Check that unit is properly hung with the proper manufacturer’s hanger.
Check the gauge pressure.
Check the condition of the gauge and its compatibility with the extinguisher.
Check the weight of the extinguisher.
Check that the last hydrostatic test date is within code requirements.
Check the last 6−year maintenance inspection date if applicable.
Check the valve and shell for damage or corrosion.
Remove the hose and inspect it for cracks or splits.
Check the hose threads for signs of wear.
Check the condition of the discharge horn.
Check for obstructions that interfere with accessibility of the unit.
Break the extinguisher seal and remove the locking pin.
Replace the locking pin and reseal the extinguisher.
Check the valve opening for powder or any foreign matter.
For dry extinguishers, fluff the powder by turning the unit.
Check the condition of the hose/horn retention band at the side of the extinguisher.
Check that the unit’s classification is properly identified with the appropriate decal/signage.
Check that the operating instructions are clean and legible.
Check that the unit is properly located within the normal path of travel, at the required height.
Check that the unit is visible, unobstructed and in proper location.
Compile a complete location report, explaining any deficiencies.
Recommend corrective action to be taken in accordance with recognized codes for care and
maintenance.
Upon completion of inspection and any necessary repairs, applicable inspection documents
and noted deficiencies shall be left at location and available electronically.
Tag all portable fire extinguishers as required and perform required record keeping.
Test Interval
Extinguisher Type
(years)
Stored-pressure water, water mist, loaded stream, and/or anti-freeze 1
Pump tank water and pump tank calcium chloride base 1
Dry chemical, cartridge and cylinder operated, with mild steel shells 1
Dry powder, cartridge and cylinder operated, with mild steel shells 1
Wetting agent 1
Stored pressure water 5
Stored-pressure dry chemical, with stainless steel shells
Carbon dioxide 5
Wet chemical 5
Dry chemical stored-pressure, with mild steel shells, brazed brass shells,
5
and aluminum shells
Halogenated agents 6
Dry powder, stored pressure, with mild steel shells 6
