The dry powder fire extinguisher stands out for its versatility and effectiveness, making it an essential tool in combating almost all types of fires.
It’s easy to identify a dry powder fire extinguisher too: look for the distinctive blue label marked ‘Powder’. Additionally, an identification sign reading ‘Powder Extinguisher’ is typically placed above the extinguisher, providing clear guidance on its use.
In this article, we dive deeper into what is a dry powder fire extinguisher so that you will be equipped with the necessary information to act accordingly during an emergency.
What is a Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher in Malaysia
Dry powder fire extinguishers, or ABC Dry Powder fire extinguishers, are extremely versatile and are designed to combat various types of fires.
They are especially useful in addressing fires involving solid materials, flammable liquids, flammable gases, and electrical equipment up to a certain voltage.
Read More: What Are The Types Of Fire Sprinkler In Malaysia?
How Do Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers Work?
The efficacy of dry powder fire extinguishers lies in their ability to create a suffocating blanket over the fire, starving it of oxygen.
This goes back to the fire triangle, in which fire cannot start or continue without all three elements present.
However, it is important to note that they do not cool the fire, which can sometimes lead to re-ignition. This is a factor to be mindful of during their use.
What are the Applications & Limitations of Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers in Malaysia
Dry powder fire extinguishers are particularly beneficial in open environments where diverse fire risks are present. Their versatility makes them an indispensable tool in various industrial and commercial scenarios.
These settings include:
- Large workshops.
- Commercial boiler rooms.
- Garage forecourts.
- Vehicles, especially fuel tankers.
What’s more, using the right fire extinguisher is crucial when attempting to put out a fire to avoid complications. To elaborate, the standard variants are effective against:
- Class A fires, which involve everyday solid materials like textiles, paper, and wood
- Class B fires, including those fuelled by flammable liquids like petrol, diesel, and paint
- Class C fires, involving flammable gases like butane and methane
- Electrical fires involving equipment up to 1000 volts.
However, please note that dry powder fire extinguishers are not suitable for Class F fires, typically involving cooking oils, due to the unique properties of these fires.
Their use in enclosed spaces is also discouraged, as the powder can reduce visibility and pose inhalation risks.
What’s more, dry powder fire extinguishers are not recommended for electrical equipment over 1000 volts.
Read More: Common Fire Risks at Warehouses & Distribution Centres
Providing Industry-Standard Fire Extinguishers in Malaysia
In summary, dry powder fire extinguishers are a vital component of fire safety in Malaysia, offering versatility and effectiveness in various emergency scenarios.
Understanding their appropriate use, benefits, and limitations is key to ensuring effective fire safety management and preparedness.
At Palcon, we are committed to supplying, installing, servicing and maintaining a diverse range of fire extinguishers.
They are all BOMBA-approved and rigorously tested, to ensure fire safety compliance for all kinds of businesses in Malaysia.
