OSHA requires that employers select and distribute fire extinguishers based on the classes of any anticipated workplace fires. Consideration is also given to the size and degree of the hazard which would affect the extinguishers’ use. Most fire extinguishers sold cover the 3 primary classes of fires (i.e., an ABC multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher).
The following list contains OSHA requirements for classes of fires and travel distance to an extinguisher. Some local requirement could be stricter, so a customer should always verify with their local fire marshal and insurance agent.
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Class A Fire* – 75′ or less travel distance
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Class B Fire – 50′ travel distance
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Class C Fire – Based on appropriate A or B hazard
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Class D Fire – 75′ travel distance
*NOTE: The employer may use uniformly spaced standpipe systems or hose stations connected to a sprinkler system installed for emergency use by employees instead of Class A portable fire extinguishers. Such systems must meet the respective requirements of 29 CFR 1910.158 or 1910.159 – that they provide total coverage of the area to be protected, and that employees are trained at least annually in their use.
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