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The provisions of this policy apply to the selection, distribution, inspection, maintenance and testing of portable extinguishing equipment. The requirements given herein are minimums. Portable extinguishers are intended as a first line of defense to cope with fires of limited size. They are needed even when a facility is equipped with automatic sprinklers, standpipe and hose, or other fixed protection equipment. Fire extinguisher training is provided by contacting the Safety and Police Office @ EXT. 5555.
The basic types of fires are Classes A, B, C, and D as defined in the following:
Portable fire extinguishers are classified for use on Class A, B, C, or D fires and rated by nationally recognized testing laboratories for relative extinguishing effectiveness. The classification and rating are based upon the preceding classification of fires and the fire-extinguishments potentials as determined by fire tests.
The character of the fires anticipated determines the selection of extinguishers for a given situation.
Fire extinguishers shall be provided for the protection of the building and for the occupancy hazard contained therein:
Extinguishers shall be conspicuously located where they will be readily accessible in the event of fire. They shall be located along normal paths of travel, including exits from an area. Fire protection and fire detection equipment shall not be obstructed.
The Physical Plant will recharge extinguishers needing to be recharged due to use or pressure leakage.
Extinguishers are to be visually inspected monthly by departmental personnel.
The Safety Office, along with the County Fire Marshall's Office, will review plans and determine the types and number of fire extinguishers required for new buildings. They will also designate the locations where extinguishers are to be installed and will install the extinguishers on request.
It is the responsibility of the using department to institute security measures to prevent losses due to theft. The Physical Plant will replace missing extinguishers.