Powder fire extinguishers are available in 2kg, 4kg, 6kg and 9kg options and are suitable for use on fires involving Class A, B, C, D and electrical fires.

These extinguishers are multipurpose extinguishers with variants that allow them to be effective on fires involving flammable metals. They are not suitable for fires involving fat (cooking oils).

These extinguishers are ideal for multi-risk environments and are effective in developing a “fast knock down” of a fire.  They are effective against “running fires” and this must be considered when designing a portable fire extinguisher system. They are not suitable for use in confined spaces as the discharge of the medium can cause reduction of visibility and may impair breathing.  For this reason powder fire extinguishers should generally not be specified for use indoors unless mitigated by a health and safety risk assessment.

Maintenance procedures: The ‘Reform Order’ requires that all fire safety equipment be kept in a condition that is fit for purpose and thus requires that all fire safety equipment including fire extinguishers be maintained. It is required in accordance with BS 5306-3:2009 that powder fire extinguishers undergo a basic service with intervals no longer than 12 months and an extended service every five years.