Umair Gaines
Electrical fires are a common and dangerous type of fire that can start in hidden nooks behind walls, within everyday appliances, or anywhere electricity flows too freely. The best way to deal with an electrical fire is to cut off the power supply at the source. However, this is not always possible, and an agent is needed to suppress the fire without risking electrical shock or damaging sensitive equipment. These agents are known as Class C fire extinguishers and are packed with non-conductive substances such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and dry chemicals. They work by interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire and displacing oxygen, effectively starving the fire of oxygen and cooling the equipment to prevent re-ignition.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fire Type | Class C |
| Fire Cause | Energized electrical equipment, appliances, and wiring |
| Extinguishing Agent | Non-conductive |
| Extinguishing Agent Examples | Carbon dioxide (CO2), dry chemical powder |
| Clean Agent Extinguishing Systems | Uses gaseous fire-suppressing agents, electrically non-conductive, leaves no residue |
| Dry Chemical Powder | Non-toxic but irritating to breathe, corrosive to sensitive electrical equipment |
| Water-based Extinguishers | Should not be used on Class C fires as they may cause fire spread or electrical shock |
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What You'll Learn
- Class C fires involve energised electrical equipment
- Non-conductive agents are required to fight electrical fires
- CO2 fire extinguishers are best for electrical fires
- Dry chemical agents can be corrosive to electrical equipment
- Halogenated extinguishers are recommended for use around sensitive electrical equipment
Class C fires involve energised electrical equipment
Electrical fires are classified as Class C fires. These fires involve energised electrical equipment, which means equipment that is fed by a power source. Class C fires may start due to a short circuit, faulty wiring, power cord damage, overcharged devices, or overloaded electrical outlets. They can occur anywhere electrical equipment is used or where electrical wiring is present.
The best way to deal with a Class C fire is to disconnect the power source—by unplugging the equipment, shutting off a breaker, or throwing a switch. However, cutting off the power source is not always possible or safe, as it may be unclear if an appliance is completely disconnected from its power source. In such cases, an agent is needed that can be safely used around energised electrical equipment. The primary requirement is that the agent be non-conductive to prevent electrical shock. Water and water-based extinguishers must not be used on Class C fires, as they can conduct electrical currents, leading to a spread of electricity and, consequently, the fire.
Class C fire extinguishers are specifically designed for electrical fires involving energised electrical equipment. They use non-conductive extinguishing agents like carbon dioxide (CO2) and dry chemical powder to safely put out the fire without risking electrical shock. CO2 is a non-conductive gas that effectively displaces oxygen, extinguishing the fire without creating a risk of electrocution or damaging sensitive electrical equipment. Dry chemical agents are also effective in suppressing Class C fires by attacking the chemical chain reaction. However, they can be corrosive to some electrical components and should not be used in data centres, telecommunications, or other sensitive equipment.
It is important to use the correct type of extinguisher for a Class C fire to prevent injury or property damage. The wrong type of extinguisher could cause electrical shock, explosion, or spread the fire.
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Non-conductive agents are required to fight electrical fires
Electrical fires are a unique type of fire that requires specific extinguishers, such as Class C extinguishers, that use non-conductive agents to prevent electrical shock. Class C fires involve energised electrical equipment and live currents. The presence of electricity means that water-based extinguishers, commonly used for other classes of fire, are unsuitable and hazardous. Water is conductive, so using it on an electrical fire could make it spread or become more intense.
It is important to use the correct type of extinguisher on a specific class of fire to avoid personal injury or damage to property. The wrong type of extinguisher could cause electrical shock, explosion, or spread the fire. For example, water or foam fire extinguishers should never be used for electrical fires, as they can conduct electricity and cause shock or electrocution.
Regular maintenance and proper use of electrical devices are crucial in preventing electrical fires. Knowing how to use the correct type of fire extinguisher can significantly enhance safety during an electrical fire emergency.
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CO2 fire extinguishers are best for electrical fires
Electrical fires are classified as Class C fires, which involve energized electrical equipment. The best way to deal with a Class C fire is to disconnect the power source to prevent the risk of electrocution and reignition. However, in cases where shutting down the power is not an option, a non-conductive agent is needed to suppress the fire safely.
CO2 fire extinguishers are the best choice for electrical fires as they are non-conductive and do not cause electrical equipment to short circuit. They work by displacing the oxygen surrounding the flames with carbon dioxide, suffocating the fire and preventing it from spreading. CO2 extinguishers are also advantageous as they leave no residue, reducing the need for extensive clean-up post-fire.
However, it is important to note that CO2 extinguishers can cause cold burns if users come into direct contact with the discharge horn during use. Modern CO2 extinguishers are designed with safety features to minimize this risk, such as non-conductive horns and handles. Nevertheless, users must be properly trained to avoid touching the horn during discharge.
While CO2 extinguishers are ideal for electrical fires, they may not be suitable for all environments. For instance, in spaces with sensitive electronics, halon or halotron extinguishers may be preferred as they evaporate and do not damage electrical components. Additionally, CO2 extinguishers are relatively expensive, with prices ranging from £33 for a 2kg model to £65 for a 5kg model.
In summary, CO2 fire extinguishers are the recommended choice for electrical fires due to their effectiveness, safety, and ability to suffocate fires without damaging electrical equipment. However, users should be aware of the potential risks associated with the discharge horn and explore alternative options for sensitive electronic environments.
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Dry chemical agents can be corrosive to electrical equipment
Dry chemical agents are effective in extinguishing Class B and Class C fires. Class B fires involve flammable liquids such as oil, gasoline, and paint, while Class C fires involve electrical equipment, appliances, and wiring.
While dry chemical agents are effective in fighting electrical fires, they can also be corrosive to electrical equipment. This is because dry chemical agents, such as monoammonium phosphate powder, work by coating the burning material with a thin layer of dust, separating the fuel from the oxygen in the air and interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire. While this is effective in putting out the fire, the chemicals used can be corrosive to sensitive electrical equipment and some surfaces.
In situations where the contents need to be protected from the adverse effects of a dry chemical agent, a clean agent is used. Clean agents are discharged as a gas and are safe for personnel. However, they require a significant amount of piping and often utilize large banks of pressurized containers. Additionally, some clean agents are facing phase-down limitations and complicated handling and testing requirements due to environmental concerns.
For larger electrical installations, operators often install systems that will not damage sensitive electrical components. These include gaseous clean agent systems or condensed aerosol units or systems. It is important to use the appropriate extinguishing agent for the specific class of fire to avoid personal injury or damage to property. Using the wrong type of extinguisher can cause electrical shock, explosion, or spread the fire.
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Halogenated extinguishers are recommended for use around sensitive electrical equipment
Electrical fires are fires that involve energized electrical equipment. The best way to deal with an electrical fire is to cut off its power supply by unplugging it, shutting off a breaker, or throwing a switch. However, in cases where shutting down the power is not an option, a non-conductive agent is needed to safely extinguish the fire without risking electrical shock.
Class C fire extinguishers are specifically designed for electrical fires. They contain non-conductive substances, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and dry chemical powder, which effectively displace oxygen and prevent the spread of electrical fires. CO2 fire extinguishers are particularly suitable for electrical fires because CO2 is a non-conductive gas that does not cause damage to electrical items or create a risk of electrocution.
While dry chemical extinguishers are also rated for electrical fires, they can be corrosive to sensitive electrical equipment. In such cases, a clean agent is used instead. Clean agents are discharged as a gas and are safe for personnel. They are often used in data centers, telecommunications, and other settings with sensitive electrical equipment.
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Frequently asked questions
An electrical fire is a fire that involves energized electrical equipment, appliances, and wiring.
Class C fire extinguishers are the most suitable for electrical fires. They contain non-conductive substances like carbon dioxide (CO2) and dry chemical powder.
Water is a conductor of electricity, so using it on an electrical fire can lead to electrical shock and further escalate the situation.
A clean agent is a non-conductive, volatile, or gaseous fire extinguishant that does not leave any residue upon evaporation. They are often used in server rooms and areas with sensitive equipment to avoid damage.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) and dry chemical powder are commonly used non-conductive agents in Class C fire extinguishers. These agents effectively extinguish the fire without risking electrical shock or damaging sensitive equipment.
