A CO₂ fire extinguisher uses pressurized carbon dioxide to help control certain fires, particularly those involving flammable liquids and electrical equipment, when appropriately rated.
How Does a CO₂ Fire Extinguisher Work?
When discharged, carbon dioxide rapidly expands and suppresses combustion by reducing the oxygen available around the fire. The discharge also produces a cooling effect.
Where Is a CO₂ Fire Extinguisher Used?
Class B fires: Certain flammable-liquid fires, subject to the extinguisher's rating.
Electrical equipment: Suitable applications involving energized electrical equipment, where permitted by the extinguisher's rating and instructions.
Important Safety Precautions
CO₂ extinguishers are generally not suitable for Class A fires involving wood, paper and cloth because they may not prevent deep-seated materials from reigniting. In enclosed spaces, discharged CO₂ can also create an asphyxiation hazard. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and workplace emergency procedures.
Choosing between a CO₂ and a BC dry chemical fire extinguisher depends on the fire hazard, equipment involved, and applicable rating.
🔗 Read the complete guide: https://greenwgroup.co.in/fire-extinguisher-types-and-uses/
Understand fire extinguisher types and their uses to support better workplace fire safety awareness.