Importance Of Foam Fire Extinguishers

Fire accidents can occur at any time. Having the right fire extinguisher can greatly assist in such times. The foam fire extinguishers are the most popular types that are used in industrial sites and workplaces. They are effective against fires caused by solid materials and flammable liquids. Understanding the maintenance, advantages and use of these foam-based extinguishers is important. Let’s discuss more about them.

What are foam fire extinguishers?

The foam-type fire extinguishers are devices that contain a foam solution, which spreads over the flames to suffocate and cool the fire. The foam creates a barrier between oxygen and the fuel source, cutting off the fire’s capacity to burn.

Here are some important things to know about these extinguishers:

• Normally come in red colours with cream-coloured labels.
• Are classified as Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) extinguishers.
• Effective on Class A fires like textiles, paper and wood, as well as on Class B fires like paints, diesel and petrol.

What are foam fire extinguishers used for?

The foam-based extinguishers are very versatile and are used in many settings, such as:

• Public spaces: Hotels, shopping centres, academies and offices keep these extinguishers for emergencies.
• Garages and petrol stations: These extinguishers are ideal for fires related to oil and petrol.
• Industrial units: They are installed in locations that deal with lubricants, fuel or paints.
• Warehouses: They are used in warehouses that store packaging, cardboard and materials made from chemicals.

How foam fire extinguishers work

The working mechanism of foam extinguishers is simple. Here’s how it functions:

1. Spray action

The foam-based fire extinguisher sprays the foam directly onto the flames.

2. Cooling effect

Once the foam is sprayed, it starts to cool down the burning material, which, in return, lowers the fire’s temperature.

3. Oxygen barrier

The foam creates a blanket that helps block oxygen from reaching the burned area.

4. Spreading effect

The foam expands and covers a massive area. This helps in preventing the fire from reigniting.

Advantages of foam fire extinguishers

Here are the benefits of foam-based extinguishers:

1. Highly effective for countless fire classes

One of the biggest advantages of foam fire extinguishers is that they can handle both liquid and solid-based fires.

2. Preventing reignition

The great thing about these extinguishers is that the foam barrier prevents the fire from reigniting.

3. Wide coverage

The foam spreads over bigger areas, which makes it perfect for open spaces and also warehouses.

4. User-friendly

The foam-based fire extinguishers are easy to operate during emergencies.

Disadvantages of foam fire extinguishers

While these extinguishers are highly effective, they also have limitations. These include:

• Upkeep costs: Periodic inspections are needed to keep these extinguishers operational.
• Cleaning problems: Foam can leave a sticky residue behind, which needs proper cleanup.
• Limited outdoor usage: Rain or strong winds can lower the effectiveness of these extinguishers.
• Not fit for metal fires: Foam extinguishers are ineffective on Class D fires, such as aluminum and magnesium.

Maintenance and inspection

Frequent upkeep ensures that these extinguishers function perfectly when needed. The following is the maintenance routine for foam extinguishers:

• Foam solution replacement: The foam mixture should be replaced regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
• Monthly inspections: It’s crucial to check the body, nozzle and pressure gauge for damage once a month.
• Hydrostatic testing: This specific testing is conducted every five years to inspect the pressure resistance.
• Yearly servicing: Certified technicians must conduct a proper check on the foam-based extinguishers.

Regulations and standards

In India, industries and other settings that use foam fire extinguishers must follow several safety measures. Doing so will allow them to avoid fines and ensure safety. These measures include:

• BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards): This regulation sets the quality and design requirements for the foam-based fire extinguishers.
• Insurance compliance: Many fire insurance providers want businesses to have the right type of extinguishers.
• NBC (National Building Code of India): It suggests the number and type of extinguishers that are ideal for buildings.
• Factory Act and Fire Services Act: It mandates the installation of fire protection devices at workplaces.

Conclusion

Foam fire extinguishers stand out as effective and practical tools that help in handling Class A and B fires in industrial locations and workplaces. They can easily cool down fires, prevent reignition and block oxygen effectively. Proper training and upkeep of these extinguishers is important.

Besides, it's also crucial to have the right property insurance plan. It can provide financial coverage against losses and damages to buildings, business assets and personal belongings resulting from a fire.

FAQs

• Do foam extinguishers leave behind a residue?

The foam does leave a sticky residue behind, which needs to be cleaned properly.

• How often should these extinguishers be serviced?

The foam-based extinguishers should be inspected monthly, serviced annually and tested every five years.

• What classes of fire can foam extinguishers handle?

They are highly effective for all Class A and Class B fires.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. Please read the sales brochure / policy wordings carefully for detailed information about on risk factors, terms, conditions and exclusions. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.