is.2190.2010 rev 30-08-12 fire extiguisher

7/27/2019 Is.2190.2010 Rev 30-08-12 Fire Extiguisher

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IS 2190 (2010): Selection, Installation and Maintenance ofFirst-Aid Fire Extinguishers--Code of Practice (FourthRevision). ICS 13.220.10


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IS 2190: 2010

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Indian Standard

SELECTION, INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCEOF FIRST-AID FIRE EXTINGUISHERS -

CODE OF PRACTICE

November 2010

( Fourth Revision)

res 13.220.10

..

BIS 2010

B U R E A U O F I N D I A N S T A N D A R D SMANAK BHAVAN, 9 BAHADUR SHAH ZAFAR MARG

NEW DELHI 110002

Price Group 8


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Fire Fighting Sectional Committee, CED 22

FOREWORD

This Indian Standard (Fourth Revision) was adopted by the Bureau of Indian Standards, after the draft finalizedby the Fire Fighting Sectional Committee had been approved by the Civil Engineering Division Council.

Portable fire extinguishers are not expected to deal with large fires since they are essentially first-aid fire fightingequipment. Nevertheless, they are very valuable in the early stages of a fire when used promptly and effectively.Provision of unsuitable types, incorrect operation, or improper maintenance of the extinguishers have, at times,led to failure in tackling the fire effectively in the early stages, thus involving greater loss of life and property.This standard has, therefore been formulated for giving guidance regarding proper selection, installation andmaintenance of portable first-aid fire extinguishers so that such extinguishers will function at all time as intendedthroughout their useful life. This standard does not cover the requirements applicable to fixed installation systemsfor extinguishing fire even though portions of such systems may be portable.

This standard was first published in 1962 and subsequently revised in 1970, 1979 and 1992. In the past 15 years,additional types of fire extinguishers both portable as well as wheeled/trolley-mounted type have been developedand are in use. It is, therefore, necessary to enlarge the coverage of this standard so as to include the provision ofall types of fire extinguishers and wheeled fire extinguishers for which Indian Standards have been formulatedtill date. While doing so, opportunity has also been taken to update the maintenance requirements based oncurrent international practices.

The halon based extinguishers have been restricted for essential use as long as the technically suitable replacementsare not available, as pe r the Montreal Protocol.

In this standard provision of fire buckets has been mentioned. However, users may provide fire buckets [(seeIS 2546 : 1974 'Specification for galvanized mild steel fire buckets (first revision)'] over and above the requirementsgiven in this standard. The use of fire buckets, however, in lieu of fire extinguisher, is not recommended.

In order that fire extinguishers are effective, they should,

a) be portable/wheeled;b) operate instantly;c) have adequate throw;d) have adequate quantity of extinguishant as per fire rating; ande) specified shelf-life from the date of manufacture.

All these characteristics are incorporated in portable extinguishers and are manufactured to deal with differenttypes of fires. In order that these could be effective, these should conform to relevant Indian Standards. Numberand size for purpose of installations shall be determined by type, fire rating and fire hazard classification ofprotected risk.

As decided by the Committee, soda acid and chemical foam type extinguishers have been phased out. The halonshave been restricted for essential use only. Number and size for purpose of installations shall be determined bytype, fire rating.

It was also decided by the Committee that the following standards shall be withdrawn with the implementation ofIS 15683 : 2006 'Portable fire extinguisher - Performance and construction':

a) IS 940 : 2003 Specification for portable fire extinguishers, water type (gas cartridge) (fourth revision)b) IS 2171 : 1999 Specification for portable fire extinguishers, dry powder (cartridge type) (fourth revision)c) IS 6234 : 2003 Specification for portable fire extinguishers, water type (stored pressure) (second revision)

(Continued on third cover)


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(Continuedfrom second cover)

d) IS 10204: 200 I Specification for portable fire extinguisher mechanical foam type

e) IS 13849: 1993 Specification for portable fire extinguisher dry powder type (stored pressure)

f) IS 15397 : 2003 Specification for portable fire extinguisher mechanical foam type (stored pressure)Clause 3.1(a) of IS 2878 : 2004 'Specification for fire extinguisher, carbon dioxide type (portable and trolleymounted) (third revision)' shall also be de leted simultaneously with the implementation of IS 15683.

For the purpose of deciding whether a particular requirement of this standard is complied with, the final valueobserved or calculated, expressing the result of a test or analysis, shall be rounded off in accordance with IS 2 : 1960'Rules for rounding o ff numerical values (revised),. The number of significant places retained in the rounded of fvalue should be the same as that of specified value in this standard.


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IS 2190 : 2010

Indian Standard

SELECTION, INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCEOF FIRST-AID FIRE EXTINGUISHERS -

CODE OF PRACTICE

( Fourth Revision)1 SCOPE

This standard lays down recommendations fo rselection, installation, maintenance and testing of firstaid fire extinguishers.

NOTE - The water, carbon dioxide, mechanical foam fireextinguishers of capacity 50 litre and above are termed asmobile extinguishers in the Indian Standards which have beenformulated; however, for the purpose of this standard these aswell as all other types of trolley mounted extinguisher will betreated under general classification of fire extinguishers.

2 REFERENCES

The standards listed at Annex A contain provisionswhich through reference in this text, constituteprovisions of this standard. At the time of publication,the editions indicated were valid. All standards aresubject to revision and parties to agreements based onthis standard are encouraged to investigate th epossibility of applying the most recent editions of thestandards indicated at Annex A.

3 TERMINOLOGY

For the purpose of this standard, definitions given inIS 7673 shall apply.

4 GENERAL

4.1 None of the extinguisher covered in this standardis expected to deal with a large fire as all these areessentially first-aid fire-fighting appliances.Nevertheless, these are very valuable, if used promptlyand efficiently in the early stages of a fire. In additionto the value of their portability and mobility, the mostimportant feature of these extinguishers is theirimmediate availability so that each extinguishercan be used by one/two persons. The usefulness of theseextinguisher is limited, as it is entirely dependent uponthe presence of persons having knowledge to operatethem. Furthermore, there capacity is also limited andtheir operational value largely depends upon the initialcharge being sufficient to overcome and extinguish thefire. The capacity of such extinguishers shouldcommensurate with the risk these are intended to cover.

4.2 Since a variety of shapes or methods of operationof fire extinguishers have at times led to confusion and

failure to quench the fire, it is recommended thatextinguishers installed in anyone building or singleoccupancy shall be similar in shape and appearanceand should have the same methods of operation, as faras possible. All extinguishers shall be equipped withthe same control devices even if their design is for

different types of fire. This will also simplify th etraining of the large number of employees in th eeffective and efficient use of extinguishers.

4.3 Where employees have not been trained, operationof extinguishers may be seriously delayed, th eextinguishing material may be wasted, and moreextinguishers may have to be used, or the fire may notbe extinguished.

4.4 Classification of Hazards

4.4.1 Light (Low) Hazard

Light hazard occupancies are locations where the total

amount of Class A combustible materials, includingfurnishings, decorations, and contents, is of minorquantity. This can include some buildings or roomsoccupied as offices, classrooms, churches, assemblyhalls, guest room areas of hotels/motels, and so forth.This classification anticipates that the majoritY, 9fcontent items are either non-combustible or so arrangedthat a fire is not likely to spread rapidly. Duplicatingmachines, art departments, offices, classrooms, placeof worship, assembly halls, guest room areas etc andso forth, are included, where Class B flammable liquidsare less than 4 litre and provided that they are kept inclosed containers and safely stored.

4.4.2Ordinary (Moderate) Hazard

Ordinary hazard occupancies are locations where thetotal amount of Class A combustibles and Class Bflammables are present in greater amounts that expectedunder light (low) hazard occupancies. These occupanciescould consist of dining areas, mercantile shop andstorage, light manufacturing operations, research labs,auto showrooms, packing garages workshops etc oflight(low) hazard occupancies, and warehouses containingClass I or Class II commodities where Class Bflammable liquids are 4 to 20 litre and provided thatthey are kept in closed containers and safely stored.


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IS 2190 : 2010

4.4.3 Extra (High) Hazard

Extra hazard occupancies are locations where the total

amount of Class A combustibles and Class Bflammables present, in storage, production, use,finished product, or combination thereof, is over andabove those expected in occupancies classed asordinary (moderate) hazard. These occupancies couldconsist of woodworking; vehicle repair; aircraft andboat servicing; cooking area; individual product displayshowrooms; product convention center displays; andstorage and manufacturing processes such as painting;dipping, and coating, including flammable liquidhandling. Also included is warehousing of or in-processstorage of other than Class I and Class II commodities.The flammable liquids may be more than 20 litre.

5 NUMBER AND SIZE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHER

5.1 Fire extinguishers should be provided both forprotecting building structure as well as occupancyhazard contained therein.

5.2 The number and size of fire extinguishers requiredfor any particular premises shall be determined tominimize the hazards by the appropriate authoritytaking into consideration the severity of incipient fireanticipated behaviour characteristics of differentmaterials and structure elements of buildings, rapiditywith which a tire may spread, intensity of heat thatma y be developed, accessibility to fire, type of

extinguisher, the smoke contributed by the burningmaterial, special features of building construction andnature of occupancy (single or mixed) and electricalfitting, equipment, etc, installed therein.

5.3 The required number of fire extinguishers may bedetermined by considering any single extinguisher ofsuitable type or a combination of two or more types.Recommendations made in Annex B may be taken asa guide.

5.4 Fire Extinguisher Size an d Placement

5.4.1 Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement fo rClass A Hazards

Minimal sizes of fire extinguishers for the listed gradesof hazards shall be provided on the basis of Table 1. Fireextinguishers shall be located so that the maximum traveldistances shall not exceed those specified in Table 1.

5.4.2 Fire Extinguisher Size an d Placement fo rClass B Fires other than fo r Fires in FlammableLiquids of Appreciable Depth

Minimal sizes of fire extinguishers for the listed gradesof hazard shall be provided on the basis of Table 2.Fire extinguishers shall be located so that the maximumtravel distances do not exceed those specified in theTable 2 used.

5.4.3 Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement fo rClass C Hazards

Fire extinguishers with Class C ratings shall be requiredwhere energized electrical equipment ca n beencountered. This requirement includes situationswhere fire either directly involves or surroundselectrical equipment. Since the fire itself is a Class Aor Class B hazard, the fire extinguishers shall be sizedand located on the basis of the anticipated Class A orClass B hazard.

Table 1 Fire Extinguisher Size an d Placement for Class A Hazards(Clause 5.4.1)

SINo.

(I )

i)ii)

iii)iv)

SINo.

(I)

i)

ii)iii)

Criteri a Light (Low) Hazard Ordinary (Moderate)Occupancy Hazar d Occupancy

(2) (3) (4)

Minimum rated single extinguisher I-A I-AMaximum floor area per unit of A, m' 280 140

Maximum floor area for extinguisher, m 3430 3430Maximum travel distance to extinguisher, m 15 15

Table 2 Fire Extinguisher Size an d Placement for Class B Hazards(Clause 5.4.2)

Extra (High) HazardOccupancy

(5)

2-A90

343015

Type of Ha7.ard Basic Minimum Extinguisher Rating Maximum Travel Distance to ExtinguishersIII

(2) (3) (4)

Light (low) 8- 8 Less than 913-8 15

Ordinary (moderate) 21-8 15Extra (high) 34-8 15

2


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5.4.4 Fire Extinguisher Size an d Placement fo rClass D Hazards

Fire extinguishers or extinguishing agents with Class Dratings shall be provided for fire involving combustiblemetals.

Fire extinguishers or extinguishing agents (media) shallbe located not more than 15 m of travel distance fromthe Class D hazard.

Size determination shall be on the basis of the specificcombustible metal, its physical particle size, area to becovered, and recommendations by th e fireextingtdshers manufacturer on data from control testsconducted.

6 SELECTION OF LOCATION

6.1 When selecting locations for fire extinguishers, dueconsideration should be given to the nature of risk tobe covered. The extinguishers should be placed inconspicuous positions and shall be readily accessiblefor immediate use in all parts of the occupancy. I tshould always be borne in mind while selectinglocations that fire extinguisher are intended only forthe use on incipient fire and they will be ofl itt le valueif the fire is not extinguished or brought under control,in the early stages.

6.2 Generally, fire extinguishers should be placed asnear as possible to exits or stair lands without hinderingthe escape routes. Wherever possible, advantage should

be taken of normal routes of escape by placing thesein positions where these shall readily be seen bypersons following the natural impulse to get out ofdanger.

6.3 The extinguishers should be available fo rimmediate use at all times. Extinguishers should besited in such a way that the user may not have to travelmore than 15 m from the site of the fire to reach theextinguishers. Similar positions on each floor areadvisable.

6.4 Extinguishers provided to deal with special risksshould be sited near to risk area concerned but not sonear as to be inaccessible in case of fire. If the specialrisk is contained in a confined space, it is generallyadvisable to position the extinguisher outside that space.

6.5 The extinguisher should be placed either in a trolleyor mounted on wall firmly.

6.6 It may be necessary to construct suitable shades orcovers to protect the extinguishers in the open fromexcessive heat and cold as well as from corrosiveenvironment. Where such shades or covers are providedto house the extinguishers in the open, these should bedesigned so that the removal of the extinguishers isnot hampered in emergency.

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IS 2190 : 2010

6.7 While selecting the location for higher capacitywheeled/trolley mounted extinguishers, considerationshould be given to the mobility of the extinguisher

within the area in which it will be used and, if indoors,the size of the doorways and passages which shouldallow easy movement of the extinguisher.

6.8 When installed in a building, the extinguishershould not be placed in a position where it is likely togain heat from the surrounding equipment or process.

6.9 A framed plan showing the location of fireextinguishers, means of access and other usefulinformation should be displayed at suitable places oneach floor, but should be available near to the entranceto the premises preferably at the security gate or thereception office.

7 INITIAL INSPECTION

7.1 Each new extinguisher received at site should beinspected for its completeness of supply and checkedwith the packing and despatch docllments of themanufacturer before installation. Check that there isno damage to the extinguisher in transit. In case ofextinguishers covered by Gas Cylinders Rules, checkthe stamp of approval embossed on the neck of thecylinder.

7.2 On initial procurement, water type gas pressureand mechanical foam extinguishers are normallysupplied in unfilled state and are charged at site. Dry

powder extinguishers may be supplied duly filled and,if not, the same have to be filled at site. Carbon dioxideand clean agent type fire extinguishers are suppliedduly charged. Clean agent, water type gas pressure,foam and dry powder extinguishers are to be chargedwith the refills separately provided by the extinguishermanufacturer as per there instruction given on the refillcontainer. The refills used shall be of same fire ratingas of original extinguishers and shall conform torelevant Indian Standards as given in Annex A.

NOTE - Halon extinguishers (restricted for essential use only)shall be supplied duly filled at site. In no circumstances, thehalon gas shall be filled/discharged at site, as per the MontrealProtocol.

7.3 If the components of the fire extinguishers likecontainer, cap assembly, hose assembly, nozzle, etc,are despatched separately by th e manufacturer,assemble the components in the first instance beforerefilling as per the instructions given by themanufacturer.

7.4 After assembling and refilling, ensure that all jointsare fully tightened and the nozzle vent holes are freeof dust/dirt.

7.5 Immediately after refilling either stencil or pastethe inspection card to the body of the extinguisher


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IS 2190 : 2010

indicating the serial numbers of the extinguishers, dateof initial charging and also the next due date of refilling.

Record of the date of inspection, initial charging, etc,should be maintained in the register for first-aid fireappliances.

8 INSTALLATION

8.1 General

Although fire extinguishers are not permanent andimmovable fittings in a structure, these from a part ofthe whole system of fire protection and should receiveconsideration for provision at the design stage. In somecases, it may be necessary for the extinguishers to behoused in readily accessible and unlocked receptacles,clearly visible and unobtrusive.

8.2 Excepting particular cases where, as stated in 7.1,it may be necessary for the extinguisher to be housedin specially prepared positions, no structural work isgenerally involved in th e installations of th eextinguishers dealt with in this standard as thisnormally takes place upon the completion of theconstruction. The general sequence of the buildingconstruction operation is not, therefore, usuallyaffected. Where a special recess is to be formed in awall, provision should be made as the work progress.

9 SELECTION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

Various types of tire extinguishers specified in thisstandard are of value but all ar e not equally effectiveon all types of fire. For this reason, the nature ofcontents of a building, the processes carried ou t thereinand the types of fire which may occur shall be takeninto consideration while selecting tire extinguishers.Fo r all practical purposes, the basic types of fires canbe grouped into following four classes:

a) Class A fires - Fires involving solidcombustible materials of organic nature suchas wood, paper, rubber, plastics, etc, wherethe cooling effect of water is essential forextinction of fires.

b) Class B fires - Fires involving llammableliquids or liquefiable solids or the like wherea blanketirig effect is essential.

c) Class Cfires - Fires involving flammablegases under pressure including liquefiedgases, where it is necessary to inhibit theburning gas at fast rate with an inert gas,powder or vaporisIng liquid fo rextinguishment.

d) Class D fires - Fires involving combustiblemetals, such as magnesium, aluminium, zinc,sodium, potassium, etc, when the burringmetals ar e reactive to water an d water

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containing agents and in certain cases carbondioxide, halogenated hydrocarbons an d

ordinary dry powders. These fires requirespecial media and techniques to extinguish.

NOTE - It is important to decide selection and use ofextinguisher on live electrical installations. Th eextinguisher that have passed electrical conductivity testshould only be used.

10 SUITABILITY OF PORTABLE FIREEXTINGUISHERS

10.1 The types of extinguishers mentioned belowagainst each class of fire are generally most suited.Details of suitability as a guide of each type ofextinguisher is shown in Table 3. It may, however, benoted that this is only for guidance and does not coverspecial cases.

a) Class A fires - Water, foam, ABC dry powerand halocarbons.

b) Class B.fires - Foam, dry powder, clean agentand carbon dioxide extinguishers.

c) Class C fires - Dry powder, clean agent andcarbon dioxide extinguishers.

d) Class D fires - Extinguishers with specialdry powder for metal tires.

10.2 Where energized electrical equipment is involvedin a fire, non-conductivity of the extinguishing mediais of utmost importance, and only extinguishersexpelling dry powder, carbon dioxide (without metalhorn) or clean agent should be used. Once the electricalequipment is de-energized, extinguishers suitable forthe class of the tire risk involved can be used safely.

10.3 Where cleanliness and contamination of sensitiveelectrical equipment are of importance or where thesensitivity of the control instruments or electronicequipment and systems are likely to be affected, onlycarbon dioxide or clean agent type extinguishers shouldbe used.

10.4 For fires involving polar solvents and other watermiscible flammable liquids, dry powder type or

mechanical foam extinguisher with alcohol-resistantfoam should be used.

10.5 Dry powder extinguishers, when used in confinedareas may reduce visibility for a few minute, whichmay temporarily jeopardize escape, rescue or otheremergency action.

10.6 Dry powder extinguishers are probably the mosteffective medium against Class B fires, but where thefuel surface is shielded from the powder discharge, theyare not effective. Further, as the discharge ceases, thereis a danger of re-ignition which has to be counteredeither by continued powder discharge for some more


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time, or by covering the surface by foam. Dry powder,being a quick knockdown agent, is ideal for tackling'running' or 'three-dimensional' fires involving

flammable liquids.

10.7 Consideration should be given for providingspecial protection or treatment for extinguisher locatedin places exposed to unduly corrosive atmospheres orto splashing by corrosive fluids.

10.8 Appropriate size of extinguishers, includingwheeled/trolley mounted type should be provided foruse depending upon hazard classification as per thefire ratings given in IS 15683.

10.9 Although clean agent type extinguisher havelow toxicity in the free state, when used on fires theyare liable to produce toxic decomposition products.Hence, when used in extinguishing fires in confinedunventilated rooms, closets, etc, the occupantsshould immediately vacate such spaces. I t will beadvisable to take the same precaution when carbondioxide extinguishers ar e used under similarcircumstances.

10.10 The fire extinguishers, extinguishing media, andthe charges/refills used sholtld conform in all respectst() the relevant Indian Standards given in Annex A.

10.11 While replacing component parts, it should beensured that only the correct components specified bythe manufacturer or equivalents are used.

11 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE OFFIRE EXTINGUISHERS

11.1 The owner or designated agent or occupant of aproperty in which fire extinguishers are located shallbe responsible for such inspection, maintenance, andrecharging.

IS 2190 : 2010

11.2 Maintenance, servicing, and recharging shall beperfonned by trained persons having available theappropriate servicing manual(s), the proper types oftools, recharge materials, lubricants, andmanufacturer's recommended replacement parts orparts specifically listed for use in the fire extinguisher.

11.3 Labels indicating fire extinguisher use orclassification or both shall be placed on the front ofthe fire extinguisher.

11.4 A well-planned and approved maintenanceschedule is essential to ensure that extinguishers,

a) will operate properly between th e timeintervals stipulated in the maintenanceprogramme for periodical inspection/maintenance; ahd

b) will not constitute a poten tial hazard topersons in its vicinity or to those who operateor recharge the extinguishers.

11.5 Periodic inspection of fire extinguishers shallinclude a check of at least the folIowing items:

a) Location in designated place;b) No obstruction to access or visibility;c) Operating instructions on nameplate legible

and facing outward;d) Safety seals and tamper indicators not broken

or missing;e) Fullness determined by weighing or lifting;f) Examination for obvious physical damage,

corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzle;g) Pressure gauge reading or indicator in the

operable range or position; andh) Condition oftyres, wheels, carriage, hose, and

nozzle checked (for wheeled units).

Table 3 Suitability of Different Types of Fire Extinguishers for Different Classes of Fires(Clause 10.1)

81 No. Type of Extinguisher Type of Fires(1) (2) (3)

r .A . ,A B C 0i) Fire extinguisher, water type (gas cartridge) ,I S 940 and IS 13385 S NS NS NS

ii) Fire extinguisher, water type (stored pressure) , [S 6234 S NS NS NSiii) Fire extinguisher, mechanical foam type (gas cartridge), IS 10204 and IS 13386 S S NS NSiv) Fire extinguisher, inechanical foam type (stored pressure), IS 14951 and IS 15397 S S NS NSv) Fire extinguisher, dry powder type (stored pressure), IS 13849 S S S NS

vi) Fire extinguisher, dry powder type (gas cartridge), [S 2171 and [S 10658 S S S NSvii) Fire extinguisher, dry powder type for metal fires, IS 11833 NS NS N8 S

viii) Fire extinguisher, carbon dioxide type, IS 2878 and [S 8149 NS S S NSix) Fire extinguisher, clean agent gas type, IS 15683 S S S NSx) Fire extinguisher, halon 1211 type, IS 4862 (Part I) and IS 11108 S S S NS

NOTES1 S - Suitable, NS - Not Suitable,2 See Annex A for list of Indian Standards.

5


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IS 2190 : 2010

11.6 Corrective Action

When an inspection of any fire extinguisher reveals adeficiency in any of the conditions, immediatecorrective action shall be taken.

11.7 Rechargeabl e Fire Extinguishers

When an inspection of any rechargeable fireextinguisher reveals a deficiency in any of th econditions, it shall be subjected to applicablemaintenance procedures.

11.8 Non-rechargeable Dry CIlemical FireExtinguisher

When an inspection of any non-rechargeable drychemical tire extinguisher reveals a deficiency in any

of the conditions, it shall be removed from further use,discharged, and destroyed at the instruction of theowner or returned to the manufacturer.

11.9 Non-rechargeable Halon/Clean Agent FireExtinguisher

When an inspection of any non-rechargeable fireextinguisher containing a halon/clean agent reveals adeficiency in any of the conditions, it shall be removedfrom service, not discharged, and returned to themanufacturer. If the fire extinguisher is notTeturned tothe manufacturer, it shall be returned to a tire equipmentdealer or distributor to permit recovery of the halon.

11.10 General Safety Precautions for Maintenance

11.10.1 While opening any extinguisher fo rmaintenance,

a) ensure that there is no residual pressure in anyhose and/or nozzle assembly;

b) unscrew the cap or valve assembly slowly fortwo or three turns only, to allow any residualpl'essure to escape via the vent holes and donot unscrew it further until all pressure isreleased. keep away the head and body toavoid injuries;

c) do not depend on pressure indicating deviceslike gauges (in the cases of stored pressuretype extinguisher) to verify whether thecontainer is under pressure or not, as theycould malfunction;

d) if pressure is not being released afterunscrewing the cap or valve assembly two orthree turns, then do not unscrew it furtherwithout taking appropriate safety measures;sudden release of pressure may eject parts,ca p assembly, or the contents of th eextinguisher. The use of suitable clampingarrangements an d appropriate personalprotection is advisable;

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e) under no circumstances should the valves ofcarbon dioxide or stored pressure type

extinguisher of gas cartridges/ containers beattempted to be removed under filledconditions; and

o at all times when attempting to remove partsfrom extinguisher at the time of inspection/maintenance, persons, should ensure that theyare clear of any parts which may be ejected.

11.10.2 Other Safety Guidelines

a) Dry powder extinguisher should be openedonly in the driest available conditions and forthe minimum time, necessary for examination,to minimize the effect of atmospheric

moisture on the powder. Moisture causescaking of the powder.b) It is even more important that mixing or cross

contamination of different types (BC/ABC/D) of powder be avoided as it may causechemical reaction resulting in a dangerouspressure build-up in the container. Thisreaction may become apparent only after afew weeks.

c) All sealing components should be cleaned andproperly lubricated to prevent leakage afterrecharge.

d) Check pressure indicating devices to ascertain

that it gives proper readings.e) Never connect a tored pressure extinguisher

to be charged directly to the high pressuresource. Connecting directly to th e highpressure source could cause damage or evenrupture of the container and may result in theinjury.

o Only those gas cartridges which will suit theparticular type an d capaci ty of th eextinguisher should be used. Do not usehigher capacities than recommended.

g) Certain recharging materials deteriorate withage, exposure to excessive temperature and

moisture. Storage of recharge materials forlong periods should be avoided.

h) Normal workshop compressors deliver airwith high moisture content. Moisture trapswill only remove the moisture partly, and maylead to caking of powder, hydrolysis ofhalogenated agents, clogging of pressuregauges and internal corrosion. Blowers/dryersshould be used to clean hose and hose fittings.

j) On all higher capacity dry powder and carbondioxide extinguisher equipped with a shut-offnozzle, the hose (without the nozzle) shouldbe removed and tested annually.


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11.10.3 Guidelines fo r the Evaluation of Damage andCorrosion

11.10.3.1 Itis difficult to precisely define the limits

tothe extent of damage or corrosion that makes anextinguisher 'unsa fe' or 'unfit' for service. Evaluationlargely depends on the judgement of the competentperson based on experience. However, some typicalexamples are cited below for guidance.

11.10.3.2 Typical conditions indicating that anextinguisher is unsafe fo r use

Potentially the most serious hazard of defectiveextinguishers is the sudden uncontrolled release ofpressure or ejection of parts. I t could be caused due toanyone of the following causes:

a) Corrosion, wear add tear or damage to threadsof any pressure retaining part;b) Corrosion of welds; andc) Extensive genera l corrosion or severe pitting.

11.10.3.3 Typical conditions indicating that anextinguisher is unfit fo r use

An extinguisher may be considered unfit for use eitherbecause it is unlikely to operate correctly or becausedamage or corrosion is likely to become worse andmake the extinguisher unsafe for use. Some of suchconditions being:

a) Bubbling or separation from the metal of a

plastic lining/powder coating;b) Corrosion of the metal body under a plastic

lining/powder coating;c) Corrosion of the metal body under a zinc of

tin/lead lining; and

d) Corrosion, wear or damage to any part of theoperating or control mechanism.

11.10.3.4 General conditions not affecting function orsafety

An extinguisher shall remain safe and functional underthe following typical conditions:

a) Staining or discoloration of lining or diptubes;

b) External blemishes or slight scratches ordents;

c) Slight rusting of parts not subject to pressure;and

d) The presence of corrosion products from anymetal lining (typically white salls of zinc, ortin and lead).

11.11 All the extinguishers installed in the premisesshould be subjected to detailed inspection as per thecheck list (applicable to monthly as inspection) and

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IS 2190 : 2010

after thorough examination and rectification, if foundsuitable, be re-charged and put in service.

11.12The maintenance, inspection and testing

ofallextinguisher in respect of mechanical parts,

extinguishing media and expelling means should becarried out by properly trained and competentpersonnel at frequent intervals, but at least once amonth, to ensure that thes.e are in their proper conditionand have not been accidentally discharged or lostpressure or suffered damage. Regular inspection of allextinguishers an d their components like sparecartridges and refills kept in the stores shou ld also bedone to ensure that these are in proper condition andfit for use.

11.13 The following procedure shall be followed for

quarterly maintenance:a) .Clean the exterior of the extinguisher, polish

the painted portion with wax polish, the brass/gun metal parts with metal polish, chromiumplated parts with silver polish and plasticcomponents to be thoroughly washed withsoap solution and sun dried.

b) Check the nozzle outlet and vent holes as wellas the threaded portion of the cap for clogging,and check that plunger is clean and movingfreely.

c) Ensure that the cap washer is intact and alsogrease the threadsofthe cap, plunger, etc, andwipe clean.

d) Make sure that the extinguisher is in propercondition and is not accidentally discharged.In case of stored pressure extinguisher,pressure gauge is to be checked for correctpressure.

e) Check all the components of the extinguisheras per the maintenance check list given foreach type of extinguisher under Annex C.

f) Maintenance shall be carried ou t by th emanufacturers or his authorised agent orprofessional firemen.

11.14Over and above the quarterly inspection, all theextinguisher shall be subjected to a more thorough

inspection atleast once in a year. Advantage should betaken of this annual inspection to train personnel inthe operation of extinguishers. The annual inspectionshould consist of the following procedure:

a) In the first instance, by rotation if th eextinguisher is due for discharge test, afterensuring that the cap and components are fullytightened nozzles and vent holes are free ofany dust or dirt, operate the extinguisher fortesting the performance.


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IS 2190 : 2010

b) In case the extinguisher is not falling due fordischarge test (see 12.3) as pe r the schedule

of records, empty the contents of theextinguisher in clean buckets and remove allthe components. In case the extinguisher isoperated, after operation clean theextinguisher and remove all components. Incase it is failing in discharge test, proceduregiven in this standard is to be followed.

c) Examine the inside surface of the cylinder aswell as the surface of the containers for thecondition of plating, for any rust formation,etc.

d) I f there are visible rust marks, wash thecylinder thoroughly with clean water, dry it

and fill it with water for 24 h and observe thesurface again. If there are still signs of rustformation and plating thickness is no tadequate, the surface should be freshly platedor phosphated as the case may be (see also11.10.3).

e) The above procedures are for water type gaspressure, foam and dr y powder type fireextinguisher. In case of CO 2 and clean agentextinguisher if the cylinders are not due forrecharging than check the weight of thecontents and the pressure of the container withits contents. If the same is in order as per the

monthly checklist, then the contents need notbe discharged. If, however, theseextinguishers are due for an operational test,then after operational test, if facilities areavailable for pressure testing and recharging,the cylinders can be pressure tested and recharged at site after checking up the exteriorand other components, or alternately shouldbe sent to the manufacturer or other competentagency for pressure testing and re-charging.

f) Examine the external surface of the fireextinguisher in respect of painting and if thereis damage to the painting, the surface shouldbe re-painted as pe r the requirements ofrelevant Indian Standard.

g) Check up the condition of the label and i f it isnot in order ensure to replace with correctlabel.

h) t;:xamine the cylinder and its components indetail apart from function'al point of view forany physical damage, cracks, dents, etc. Incase of any doubt, such components, if thoseare pressure parts, should be subjected tohydraulic pressure test. I f the damage isbeyond repair, the part should be replaced bya correct component.

8

j) The annual inspection should be combinedwith the testing requirements as given under

12 for operational test and hydraulic pressuretest.

k) The extinguishers after inspection should beretilled immediately and the date of inspectionand refilling should be indelibly marked onthe extinguishers and recorded in the registerof fire extinguishers.

11.14.1 Water (Stored Pressure)IPowder (StoredPressure) Extinguisher

As this type of extinguisher is pressurized, it can beopined for inspection/maintenance after discharge only.It should be tested for discharge as per Annex D andmaintenance described in 11.14.1 (a) to (h), carriedout:

a) Check the pressure gauge, discharge theextinguisher and check its performance;

b) Check the pressure gauge before and afterd i s c ~ a r g efor its correctness;

c) Open the extinguisher and check the bodyexternally and internally using an illuminatingprobe; for corrosion or damage take action asper 11.10;

d) Examine valve assembly, dischar ge hose,nozzle, strainer, vent holes, siphon tube andclean;

e) Examine sealing washers, siphon tube andhose ( if fitted ), and replace, if necessary;

f) Check the operating mechanism for freemovement and clean, rectify or replace, ifnecessary;

g) Refill the extinguisher with fresh water orpowder (stored pressure), screw cap tightlyand pressurise the extinguisher, checking thepressure gauge for correct pressure ( see also11.10); and

h) Replace safety clip/wire seal or equivalent asoriginally fitted.

12 TESTING OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

12.1 'The testing of fire extinguishers consists of ahydraulic pressure test and a performance test. Thesetests shall be carried out as per the norms and frequencygiven below.

12.2 Hydraulic Pressure Test

12.2.1 The pressure test of all types of extinguisher shouldbe carried out at intervals mentioned against eachextinguisher at pressure and for the period mentionedagainst them in Annex E. The hydraulic pressure testingshould be carried out such that atleast one-third (1/3) of


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the extinguishers installed in a premises are tested as perAnnex E every year. If any of the extinguishers fails inthe hydraulic pressure test to meet the requirements given

in Annex E, then after repairs, the extinguisher should besubjected to pressure testing. If it passes the test as perthe requirements mentioned above, the extinguisher shallbe retained and, if it fails, the extinguisher should berejected and condemned as per the procedure and afterrecord the same in the register of fire extinguishers andreplace with new fire extinguishers. On the basis of lifeof extinguisher, the extinguishers shall not be used afterexpiry of its life as given in Annex F.

12.2.2 Pressure Test Procedure an d Safety Precautions

a) All valves and internal parts shall be removedand the extinguisher emptied;

b) All traces of extinguishing materials like drypowder/mechanical foam should be removedfrom inside the shell before filling with water;

c) In the case of externally ,mounted gascartridges/containers for higher capacity drypowder extinguishers, the cartridge/containermust be removed an d shell opening besuitably plugged;

d) The hose of the hydrostatic test pump is thenattached to the flexible connection to thedischarge nozzle, hose assembly or test fitting,as the case may be;

e) The extinguisher should then be placed in a

suitable protective test cage or behind aprotective shieldlbarrier before applying thetest pressure;

f) The cap or the test fitting, as the case may be,must be tightened slowly while the watersupply remains open. When all the entrappedair within the shell has been bled off, andwater emerges the cap/test fitting must betightened fully;

g) Pressure is then applied slowly so that the testpressure (as given in Annex E) is reachedslowly within 1 min, and maintained for theduration of 2.5 min. Observation are made

about distortion or leakage of the extinguisherbody; if any.

h) After hydraulic testing, all traces of water andmoisture must be removed from dry powderand stored pressure extinguishers preferablyby use of a suitable cylinder dryer taking carethat the temperature within the shell does notexceed 65C.

12.3 Discharge Test

All extinguishers installed in a premise irrespective ofbeing use in a live fire condition shall be subjected toan operational test as per the frequency of testing given

9

IS 2190 : 2010

in Annex D. The operational test should be carried outin such a frequency, keeping in view the frequencygiven in Annex D for type of the extinguisher, in

annually cyclic manner so that all the extinguishersinstalled in a premise are subjected to discharge test.If more than 10 percent of the extinguishers, subjectedto discharge test fail during the testing, then all theextinguishers installed in the premises shall Desubjected to the discharge test.

12.4 Gas Cartridge

In case of gas cartridges, if there is loss of more than10 pe r cent of original mass, these should be sent forrecharging and replaced with fresh charge. At the timeof recharging the cartridge, the cartridge should betested for hydrostatic test accord ing to the provisions

of IS 4947 and should be re-used only subject topassing of requirement.

13 MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS

The records of maintenance, inspection and testing ofall fire extinguishers including its operational historyshall be maintained in a register as per the formantgiven in Annex G.

14 REJECTED EXTINGUISHERS

Th e rejected fire extinguishers should be cut centrallyacross the body and made unusable before disposal soas to prohibit their subsequent use. The date of rejection

and the mode disposal should be recorded in the registerof fire extinguisher (see Annex G).

15 RECHARGING

15.1 General

15.1.1 All rechargeable-type fire extinguishers shallbe recharged after any use or as indicated by aninspection or when performing maintenance.Extinguishers which are out of service for maintenanceor recharging should be replaced by extinguisher(s)having the same class and at least equal rating. In nocase, extinguishers of other facility should bewithdrawn for this purpose.

15.1.2 When performing or recharging, therecommendations of th e manufacturer shall befollowed.

15.1.3 The amount of recharge agent shall be verifiedby weighing. The recharged gross mass shall be thesame as the gross mass that is marked on the label. Forthose fire extinguishers that do not have the gross massmarked on the label, a permanent label that indicatesthe gross mass shall be affixed to the cylinder. Th elabel containing the gross weight shall be a durablematerial of a pressure-sensitive, self-destruct type.


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IS 2190 : 2010

15.1.4 Conversion o f Fire Extinguisher Types

No fire extinguisher shall be converted from one typeto another, or shall any fire extinguisher be convertedto use a different type of extinguishing agent. Fireextinguishers shall not be used for any other purposethan that of a fire extinguisher.

15.1.5 Leak Test

After recharging, a leak test shall be performed onstored-pressure an d self-expelling types of fireextinguishers.

15.2 Frequency

15.2.1 Pump Tank (Every 12 months)

Pump tank water and pump tank calcium chloride basedanti-freeze types of tire extinguishers shall be rechargedwith new chemicals or water, as applicable.

15.2.2 Wetting Agent

The agent in stored-pressure wetting agent fireextinguishers shall be replaced annually. Only theagent specitied on the nameplate shall be 'used forrecharging. Th e use of water or other agents isprohibited.

15.2.3 AFFF and FFFP

Th e prernlxed agent in liquid charge-type AFFF(aqueous film-forming foam) and FFFP (film-formingfluoro-protein foam) fire extinguishers shall bereplaced at least once every year. The agent in solidcharge-type AFFF fire extinguishers shall be replacedonce every 5 years.

15.3 Procedures

15.3.1 Recharge Agents

Only those agents specified on the nameplate or agentsproven to have equal chemical composition, physicalcharacteristics, and fire extinguishing capabilities shallbe used. Agents listed specifically for use with thatfire extinguisher shall be considered to meet these

requirements.15.3.2 Mixing of Dry Chemicals

Multipurpose BC or ABC dry chemicals shall not bemixed with alkaline-based dry chemicals.

15.3.3 Topping Of f

Th e remaining dry chemical in a discharged fireextinguisher shall be permitted to be re-used, providedthat it is thoroughly checked for the proper type,contamination, and condition. Dry chemical found tobe of the wrong type, or contaminated, shall not be reused.

10

15.3.4 Dry Chemical Agent Re-use

Fire extinguishers removed after 5 years fo rmaintenance or hydrostatic testing shall be emptied.The dry chemical agent shall be permitted to be reused, provided a closed recovery system is used andthe agent is stored in a sealed container to preventcontamination. Prior to re-use, the dry chemical shallbe thoroughly checked for the proper type,contamination, and condition. Where doubt exists withrespect to the type, contamination, or condition of thedry chemical, the dry chemical shall be discarded.

15.3.5 Dry Powder

Pails or drums containing dry powder agents for scoo por shovel application for use on metal tires shall be

kept full and covered at all times. The dry powder shallbe replaced if found damp.

15.3.6 Removal of Moisture

Fo r all non-water types of fire extinguishers, anymoisture shall be removed before recharging.

15.3.7 Halogenated Agent

Halogenated agent tire extinguishers shall be chargedonly with the proper type and weight of agent asspecified on the nameplate.

15.3.8 Halogenated Agen t Re-use

The removal of Halon 1211 from fire extinguishersshall be done only using a listed halon closed recoverysystem. The removal of agent from other halogenatedagent tire extinguishers shall be done only using aclosed recovery system. The fire extinguisher shall beexamined internally for contamination or corrosion,or both. The halogenated agent retained in the systemrecovery cylinder shall be re-used only, if no evidenceof internal contamination is observed in the fireextinguisher cylinder. Halogenated agent removedfrom fire extinguishers that exhibit evidence of internalcontamination or corrosion shall be processed in withthe fire extinguisher manufacturer's instructions.

15.3.9Carbon Dioxide

The vapour phase of carbon dioxide shall be not lessthan 99.5 percent carbon dioxide. The wat er cont entof the liquid phase shall be not more than 0.01 perc entby weight [-30F (-34.4C) dew point]. Oil contentof the carbon dioxide shall not exceed 10 ppm byweight.

15.3.10 Water Types

When stored-pressure fire extinguishers are recharged,overfilling will result in improper discharge. The properamount of liquid agent shall be determined by usingone of the following:


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a) Exact measurement by weight;b) Exact measurement in volume;c) An anti-overfill tube, if provided; andd) A fill mark on fire extinguisher shell, if

provided.

15.3.11 Wet Chemical Agent Re-use

These agents are not to be re-used. If a wet chemicalextinguisher is partially discharged, all remaining wetchemical shall be discarded. Wet chemical agent shallbe discarded and replaced at the hydrostatic testinterval.

15.4 Precautionary Pressurization Measures

15.4.1 Pressure Gauges

Replacement pressure gauges shall have the properindicated charging (service) pressure, shall be markedfor use with the agent in the fire extinguisher, and shallbe compatible with the fire extinguisher valve bodymaterial.

15.4.2 Stored-Pressure-Type Fire Extinguishers

A rechargeable stored-pressure-type fire extinguishershall be pressurized only to the charging pressurespecified on the fire extinguisher nameplate. Themanufacturer's pressurizing adapter shall beconnected to the valve assembly before the fireextinguisher is pressurized. A regulated source ofpressure, set no higher than 25 psi (172 kPa) abovethe operating (service) pressure, shall be used topressurize tire extingliishers. The gauge used to setthe regulated source of pressure shall be calibrated atleast annually.

15.4.2.1 An unregulated source of pressure, such as anitrogen cylinder without a pressure regulator, shallnever be used because the fire extinguisher could beoverpressurized and possibly rupture.

15.4.2.2 A fire extinguisher shall never be leftconnected to the regulator of a high-pressure sourcefor an extended period of time. A defective regulatorcould cause the container to rupture due to excess

pressure.

11

IS 2190 : 2010

15.4.3 Pressurizing Gas

Only standard industrial-grade nitrogen with a dewpoint of -60F (-51C) or lower shall be used topressurize stored-pressure dry chemical andhalogenated-type fire extinguishers. Compressed airthrough moisture traps shall not be used forpressurizing even though so stated in the instructionson older fire extinguishers.

15.4.3.1 Compressed air shall be permitted to be usedfrom special compressor systems capable of deliveringair with a dew point of -60F (-51.1 0c ) or lower. Thespecial compressor system shall be equipped with anautomatic monitoring and alarm system to ensure thatthe dew point remains at or below -60F (-51.1 C) atall times.

15.4.3.2 Class D and halocarbon fire extinguishers shallbe re-pressurized only with the type of expellant gasrefelTed to on the tire extinguisher label.

15.5 Recharge Record Keeping

Each fire extinguisher shall have a tag or label securelyattached that indicates the month and year rechargingwas performed and that identifies th e personperforming the service. A 'Veritication of Service'(maintenance or recharging) collar shall also beattached to the extinguisher.

15.5.1 Liquefied gas, halogenated agent, and carbondioxide extinguishers that have been recharged withoutvalve removal shall not be required to have a'Veritication of Service' collar installed followingrecharge.

15.5.2 Cartridge and cylinder-operated extinguishersshall not be required to have a 'Verification of Service'collar installed.

16 SPARE REFILLS

It is important that a minimum of 10 percent (of thenumber of various types of extinguishers on charge)replacement charges/retiUs should always be availablein stock so that discharged extinguisher can be re

charged and brought into use promptly.


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IS 2190 : 2010

IS No.

940: 1989

1641 : 1988

2171: 1999

2546: 1974

2878: 2004

4308: 2003

4862 (Part 1) :1986

4947: 2006

6234: 2003

7673: 2004

ANNEXA

(Clauses 2, 7.2 and 10.10)

LIST OF REFERRED INDIAN STANDARDS

Title

Portable fire extinguisher, water type(gas cartridge) - Specification(fourth revision)

Code of practice for fire safety ofbuildings (general): Generalprinciples of fire grading an dclassification (jirst revision)Specification for portable fireextinguishers, dry powder (cartridge

type) (jourth revision)Specification for galvanized mildsteel fire buckets (first revision)Fire extinguisher, carbon dioxidetype (portable and trolley mounted)- Specification (third revision)Dry chemical powder for fighting Band C class tires - Specification(second revision)

Specification for portable fireextinguishers for air craft: Part 1Halon 1211 type (first revision)Gas cartridges for use in fireextinguishers - Specification (thirdrevision)

Portable fire extinguishers, watertype (stored pressure)Specification (first revision)

Fire fighting equipment - Glossaryof terms (first revision)

IS No.

8149: 1994

10204: 2001

10658: 1999

11108: 1984

11833: 1986

13385: 1992

13386: 1992

13849: 1993

14609: 1999

14951 : 2001

15397: 2003

15683: 2006

ANNEXB

(Clause 5.3)

Title

Functional requirements for twinCO 2 fire extinguishers (trolleymounted) (first revision)Specification for portable fireextinguisher, mechanical foam type(first revision)Specification for higher capacity drypowder fire extinguisher (trolleymounted) (first revision)

Specification for portable fireextinguishers - Halon 1211 typeSpecification for dry powder fireextinguishers for metal tiresSpecification for fire extinguisher50 litre capacity wheel mountedwater type (gas cartridge)Specification for 50 litre capacity fireextinguisher, mechanical foam typeSpecification for portable fireextinguisher dry powder type (storedpressure)Dry chemical powder fighting A, B,

C class tires - SpecificationFire extinguisher-135litre capacitychemical foam type - SpeciticationPortable tire extinguisher mechanicalfoam type (stored pressure) -SpecificationPortable fire extinguisherPerfonnance and construction

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR INSTALLATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

B-1 Occupancies classified according to IS 1641 aregiven together with nature of fire hazard and type offire risk along with typical examples. Th e

12

classifications, groupings, etc, given in this Annex areonly for. general guidance for installation of fireextinguishers, and not for other purposes.


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Class ofOccupancy

Group A

Group B

Group C

GroupD

GroupE

Group F

Group G

Type of Occupancy

Residential buildings

Educational buildings

Institutional buildings

Assembly buildingsD-1

D-2

D-3

D- 4D-5

Business buildingsE-1E-2

E-3

Mercantilebuildings

Industrialbuildings

Nature o fOccupancy

LH

LH

MH

LH

MHM H

HH

MH

MH

LH

SH

MH

SH

MH

LH

IS 2190 : 2010

Class of Typical ExamplesFire

Class A Lodging or rooming, one or two family houses,private dwellings, dOlmitories, apartment houses,flats, upto 4 star hotels, etc

Class C Small kitchens having LPG connection, electricalheaters, etc

Class A Multi-storeyed buildings, multi-risk buildings,five star hotels, etc

Class A Tutorials, vocational training institutes, eveningcolleges, commercial institutes

Class A Schools, colleges, etc

Class A Hospitals, sanatoria, homes for aged, orphanagejails, etc

Class A Theatres, assembly halls, exhibition halls,museums, restaurants places of worship, club

rooms, dance halls, etc, having seating capacityof over 1 00 persons

Class A Theatres, assembly halls, exhibitions halls,museums, restaurants, places of worship, clubrooms, dance halls, etc, having seating capacityless than 1 000 persons

Class A Theatres, assembly halls, exhibition halls,museums, restaurants, places of worship, clubrooms, dance halls, etc, but havingaccommodation for more than 300 persons, butless than 1 000 persons, with no permanentseating arrangement

Class A Theatres, assembly halls, exhibition halls,museums, restaurants, places of worship, club

rooms, dance halls, etc, but havingaccommodation less than 300 and those notcovered under D- l to D-3

Class A Offices, banks, record rooms, archives, libraries,data processing centres, etc

Class B Laboratories, research establishment, test houses,etc

Class A Computer installations

Class A Shops, stores, markets, departmental stores,underground shopping centres, etc

Class A Small industrial units

MH Class A Corrugated carton manufacturing units, papercane units, packing case manufacturing units,

cotton waste manufacturing unitsHH Class A Large number yards, saw mills, godowns and

warehouses storing combustible materials, coldstorages, freight depots, etc

LH Class B Demonstration chemical plants, small chemicalprocessing plants, pilot plants, etc

MH Class B Workshops, painting shops, large kitchens,industrial canteens, generator rooms, heattreatment shops, tread rubber manufacturingunits, petrol bunks, tubes and Haps units, etc

HH Class B Petroleum processing units, chemical plants,industrial alcohol plants, effluent treatmentplants, etc

LH Class C

13


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IS 2190 : 2010

Class of Type of Occupancy Nature ofOccupancy Occupancy

MHHH

HH

GroupH Storage buildings MH

HH

Class ofFire

Class CClass C

Class D

Class B

Class B

Typical Examples

Fertiliser plants, petrochemical plants, LPGbottling plants, etcAll processes involving use of combustible highlytlammable materials, reactive metals and alloys,including their storageFlammable liquid stores, storage in drums andcans in open, paints and varnishes godownTank farms, chemical and petroleum bulk storagedepots, large service stations, truck and marineterminals, underground LDO/fumace oil storageyards, etc

MH Class C LPG distribution godown/office, distributionstorage godowns/offices of D, N, H, Argon andother industrial gases

HH Class C Storage and handling of gas cylinders in bulk, gas

Group J Hazardous

NOTES

1 LH - Low hazard.

2 MH - Medium hazard.3 HH - High hazard.4 SH - Special hazard.

B-2 RECOMMENDED SCALE OF EQUIPMENTTO BE INSTALLED

B-2.1 Class A

LH Occupancy On e 9 litre water expellingextinguisher or ABC 5 kg/6 kg fireextinguisher, for every 200 m 2 ofnoor area or part thereof withminimum of two extinguishers per

compartment or floor of th ebuilding. The extinguishers shouldbe so located as to be availablewithin 15 m radius.

MH Occupancy Two 9 litre water expellingextinguishers or ABC 5 kg / 6 kgfire extinguisher, for every 200 m 2

with minimum of 4 extinguisherspe r compartmentlfloor. Theextinguisher should be so locatedas to be available within 15 mradius.

14

plant, gas holders ( Horton), spheres, etcBuildings used for storage, handling, manufactureand processing of highly combustible explosivematerials. (Risks involved in terms of class offire and intensity of fire has to be assessed oncase to case basis and statutory authorities to beconsulted, environmental factors and mutual aidfacilities to be taken into account before decidingon the fire extinguisher requirements.)

HH Occupancy Provision as per MH occupancy; inaddition to one 50 litre water CO 2/25 kg ABC fire extinguisher forevery 100 m2 of floor area or partthereof.

Special Hazard One 4.5 kg capacity carbon dioxideor one 2/3 kg capacity clean agen textinguisher for every lOa m 2 offloor area or part thereof withminimum of two extinguishers solocated as to be available within10 m radius.

B ~ 2 . 2Class B

LH Occupancy On e 9 litre foam extinguisher,mechanical or BC or ABC,5 kg/6 kg fire extinguisher, fo revery 200 m 2 of floor area or partthereof with minimum of tw oextinguishers per compartment orfloor. The extinguishers should be


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so located as to be available within15 m radius.

MHOccupancy Two

9 litrefoam

extinguisher,mechanical type, or 5/6 kg drypowder extinguisher ( or one ofeach type) for every 200 m 2 areawith minimum of fourextinguisher per compartment.Extinguisher should be availablewithin 15 m radius.

HH Occupancy Provision as pe r MH , an d inaddition to one 50 litre mechanicalfoam type extinguisher or 25 kg BCfire extinguisher for every 100 m 2

or part thereof one l35 litre foam

mechanical extinguisher for every300 m 2 of floor area or part thereof.

B-2.3 Class C

LH Occupancy One 2/3 kg dry powder of cleanagent extinguisher fo r every20 m 2 of floor area or part thereof;extinguisher available within 15 mradius.

MH Occupancy One 10 kg dry powder extinguisher(stored pressure) or 6.5 kg carbondioxide extinguisher or 5 kg cleanagent for 100 m 2 of floor area or

part thereof, with minimum of oneextinguishers of the same type forevery compartment; extinguisher

IS 2190 : 2010

should be available within a radiusof 15 m.

HH Occupancy Dry powder extinguisher (storedpressure) of 10 kg or 6.5 kg CO 2extinguisher, or 5 kg clean agentextinguisher for every 100 m 2 offloor area or part thereof, subjectto a minimum of two extinguishersof same type pe r room orcompartment. Extinguishersshould be available within a radiusof 10 m.

B-2.4 Class D

HH Occupancy One 10 kg dry powder extinguisherwith special dry powder for metalfires for every 100 m 2 of floor areaor part thereof with minimum oftw o extinguishers percompartment/room. Extinguishersshould be available within a radiusof 10 m.

NOTES

1 The recommendations are minimum for a specific area. Incase, the area is more than specitied, high capacity extinguishermay be used based on these minimum requirements, that isproportionately higher capacity can be used.2 In case of dry powder/CO,/clean agent types. equivalent lowercapacities may also be used.

3 The halons shall be restricted for essential use only.4 On implementation of IS 15683.6 kg and 9 kg dry powderextinguishers shall be replaced by 5 kg and 10 kg dry powderextinguishers.

ANNEXC[Clause 11.13 (e n

MAINTENANCE CHECK LIST FOR FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

(FOR ROUTINE CHECK AND QUARTERLY MAINTENANCE)

NOTE - During inspection/maintenance of extinguisher thegeneral safety precautions prescribed under 11.10 should becomplied with.

C-l FIRE EXTINGUISHER, WATER TYPE GASCARTRIDGE (see IS 940, IS 13385 an d IS 15683)

a) Open the extinguisher, see the water level andthrowaway the water charge.

b) Examine the extinguisher body internally andexternally fo r corrosion an d damagedconditions with illuminating probe. Damagedan d corroded extinguishers should be

15

removed from service. Corroded gas cartridgeshould also be replaced.

c) Examine the gas cartridge for mass. If thereis loss of more than 10 percent of originalmass, the cartridge should be sent for recharging after being replaced by a chargedone. For re-charging, procedure given in 12.4should be followed.

d) Examine nozzle, strainer, vent holes, internaldischarge tube and sealing washer; replacethem if not in good condition. Otherwise cleanthem thoroughly.


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IS 2190 : 2010

e) Check the operati ng mechan ism for freemovement an d piercing mechanism if

working properly.t) Refill the fire extinguisher with clean water.

C-2 FIRE EXTINGUISHER, WATER STOREDPRESSURE TYPE (see IS 6234 an d IS 15683)

a) Examine and verify that the pressure gaugeor any other pressure indicating device fittedin is indicating the internal pressure correctly,if the extinguisher shows a loss of pressure ofmore than 10 percent, refer to th emanufacturer's instructions for appropriateuction.

b) Examine the extinguisher body externally for

corrosion or damage (see 11.10).c) Weigh the extinguisher (with or without the

operating mechanism according to themanufacturer's instructions) or use suitablealternate means to check that it contains thecorrect mass ofliquid. Check the mass ugainstthe mass recorded when it was first put intoservice.

d) Examine the nozzle and hose and clean, ifnecessary.

e) Examine the hose for wear and replace, ifnotin good condition.

f) Where the extinguishers are designed to havethe operation mechanism removed, check theoperating mechanism and discharge control(where fitted) for free movement, clean,rectify or replace, if necessary.

g) Replace safety clip/wire seal or equivalentdevice as originally titted.

h) Retill the fire extinguisher with clean water.

NOTE - As this type of extinguisher is pressurised, itcan be opened for inspection only after discharge oflhe extinguisher. It should be subjected to discharge/performance test every two years.

C-3 FIRE EXTINGUISHER, FOAM TYPE

MECHANICAL (see IS 10204, IS 13386 an dIS 15683)

a) Open the extinguisher, check the liquid lever.Pour liquid in separate clean receptacle to seeif there is any sediment at the bottom of thecylindeI: Reject the charge if there is sufficientsludge formation.

b) Examine the extinguisher externally andinternally for any corrosion or damage.Damaged and corroded extinguisher shouldbe removed from service. Corroded gascartridge should also be replaced.

16

c) Examine the gas cartridge of mass. If there isloss of more than 10 percent of original mass,

replace it with fully charged one.d) Examine th e foam generating nozzle,

strainer, vent holes, internal discharge tubeceiling washer, etc. Replace them, if not ingood condition. Otherwise clean themthoroughly.

e) Check the operating mechanism for freemovement and piercing mechanism for properworking.

f) Clean the hose assembly and check it for anydust/sediment ut either shank ends.

C-4 FIRE EXTINGUISHER, FOAM TYPE

MECHANICAL STORED PRESSURE (seeIS 15397 and IS 15683)

Examine and verify that the pressure gauge or any otherpressure indicating device titted in is indicating theinternal pressure correctly, if the extinguisher shows aloss of pressure of more than 10 percent, refer to themanufacturer's instructions for appropriate action.

Open the extinguisher, check the liquid lever. Pourliquid in separate clean receptacle to see if there is anysediment at the bottom of the cylinder. Reject thecharge, if there is sufficient sludge formation.

a) Examine the extinguisher body externally for

corrosion or damage (see 11.10).b) Examine th e foam generating nozzle,

strainer, vent holes, internal discharge tubeceiling washer, etc. Replace them, if not ingood condition. Otherwise clean themthoroughly.

c) Weigh the extinguisher (with or without theoperating mechanism according to th emanufacturer's instructions) or use suitablealternate means to check that it contains thecorrect mass ofliquid. Check the mass againstthe mass recorded when it was first put intoservice.

d) Examine the nozzle and hose and clean, ifnecessary.

e) Examine the hose for wear and replace, if notin good condition.

f) Where the extinguishers are designed to havethe operation mechanism removed, check theoperating mechanism and discharge control(where fitted) for free movement, clean,rectify or replace, if necessary.

g) Replace safety clip/wire seal or equivalentdevice as originally fitted.

h) Retill the tire extinguisher with compound.


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C-5 FIRE EXTINGUISHER, DRY POWDERTYPE GAS CARTRIDGE (see IS 2171, IS 10658,IS 11833 and IS 15683)

All dry powder extinguishers should be inspected andmaintained in accordance with the following. The drypowder extinguisher should be opened in a dry roomand for a minimum possible time to avoid effect toatmospheric moisture on powder.

a) Dry powder extinguisher, where dischargecontrol is fitted on the nozzle, should be operatedbefore opening the extinguisher to ensure thatthere is no pressure in the extinguisher.

b) Weigh the extinguisher to check the correctmass of powder filled in it which should bemarked on the body of extinguisher an d

record book when i t was first put into service.c) Open the extinguisher an d remove gas

cartridge and see that sealing disc is intact.Weigh and compare its mass with full massof cartridge marked on it. In case, loss of massis more than 10 percent, it should be replacedby new cartridge.

d) Check the operating mechanism, dischargecontrol for fire movement and closing. Examinenozzle, hose, vent holes, piercing mechanismof cap cartridge holder, grease and wipe clean.

e) Remove the inner shell (if any) and clean portholes.

f) Empty the dry powder in a dry container andexamine for caking, lumps and foreign matter,in which case replace it with new dry powdercharge.

g) Examine the extinguisher body internally forany damage or corrosion and replace corrodedor damaged extinguisher.

h) Clean the extinguisher using dry air.j) Return the original charge to the extinguisher

and fit the cartridge and other fittings.

k) In case of higher capacity dry powder fireextinguisher as per IS 10658, remove thecarbon dioxide cylinder and check the weightmarked on the cylinder to ensure that the sizeconforms to that stipulated in th especification. On weighing, if the loss of massis more than 10 percent it should be sent forrecharging. Also examine the wheel carriageand discharge hose assembly with controlnozzle for free flow and test it with dry air.

m) In case of dry powder extinguisher for metaltire as per IS 11833, in addition to U) above,examine the applicator pipe and the dischargeshower head for freedom from clogging andclean it with dry air. Sample of the dry powder

17

IS 2190 : 2010

for metal fire may be tested on a small fire ofmagnesium turning or chips to ensure that thepowder is suitable for metallic fire risks.

n) The safety valves and pressure gauges fittedon higher capacity extinguishers. should becalibrated once in 3 years and recorded in theregister.

C-6 FIRE EXTINGUISHER, CARBON DIOXIDETYPE (see IS 2878, IS 8149 and IS 15683)

a) Examine extinguisher body externally.Damaged or corroded extinguisher should bereplaced.

b) Weigh the extinguisher, compare mass againstthe mass marked on it fo r fully, chargedextinguisher. I t should be sent for refilling if

the loss is more than 10 percent of mass. Cleanand polish externally.

c) Examine hose, horn and assembly and clean.In case of trolley mounted extinguisher,examine the wheel carriage for free movement.

C-7 FIRE EXTINGUISHER, CLEAN AGENT GASTYPE (see IS 15683)

a) Examine extinguisher body externally.Damaged or corroded extinguisher should bereplaced.

b) Check the pressure gauge to se e thatextinguisher is pressured correctly.Extinguisher showing loss in pressure shouldbe sent to manufacturer for pressurisation.

c) Weigh the extinguisher to check its contentsof the extinguishing media and compare itwith mass recorded on the cylinder. In caseof loss of more than 10 percent, th eextinguisher should be sent for recharging.

C-8 FIRE EXTINGUISHER, DRY POWDERTYPE STORED PRESSURE (see IS 13849 an dIS 15683)

All dry powder extinguishers should be inspected an dmaintained in accordance with the following. The drypowder extinguisher should be opened in a dry roomand for a minimum possible time to avoid effect toatmospheric moisture on powder.

a) Examine and verify that the pressure gauge orany other pressure indicating device fitted in isindicating the internal pressure correct! y, if theextinguisher shows a loss of pressure of morethan 10 percent, refer to the manufacturer'sinstructions for appropriate action.

b) Examine extinguisher body externally.Damaged or corroded extinguisher should bereplaced.


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SlNo.

Type of Extinguisher

viii) Dry powder ( stored pressure) (I S l3849)ix) Carbon dioxide IS 2878x) Clean agent (IS 15683)

xi) Dry powder (gas cartridge)( IS 2171, IS 10658 and IS 11833)

NOTE - Extinguisher's should be hydraulicully tested with cap.

ANNEXF

(Clauses 12.2.1)

TestInterval

Year

3533

LIFE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

SINo.

i)ii)

iii)iv)v)

NarES

Type of Extinguisher

Water typeFoam typePowder typeCarbon dioxideClean agent

1 Life of extinguishers shaH be considered from date of manufacture of extinguishers.

IS 2190 : 2010

Test PressurePressure Maintained fo rkg/cm'

35250

3535

Life Time,Year

1010

10

15

10

min

2.52.52.52.5

2 In case of failure in hydraulic pressure testing, extinguisher shall be rejected immediately before the life time given above.

19


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,'d

11

;'{

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Bureau of Indian Standar ds

BIS is a statutory institution established under the Bureau o f Indian Standards Act, 1986 to promoteharmonious development of the activities of standardization, marking and quality certification of goodsand attending to connected matters in the country.

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Review of Indian Standards

Amendments are issued to standards as the need arises on the basis of comments. Standards are also reviewedperiodically; a standard along with amendments is reaffirmed when such review indicates that no changes areneeded; if the review indicates that changes are needed, it is taken up for revision. Users of Indian Standardsshould ascertain that they are in possession of the latest amendments or edition by referring to the latest issue of'BIS Catalogue' and 'Standards: Monthly Additions'.

This Indian Standard has been developed from Doc No.: CED 22 (7381).

Amendments Issued Since Publication

Amend No. Date of Issue Text Affected

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