The type of fire extinguisher you should use in a trench or a confined space depends on the type of fire:
- Water or foam-For non-electrical fires, you can use a water or foam extinguisher. Water extinguishers are red and cool the fire’s fuel, while foam extinguishers are cream and are especially good for fires caused by liquids or solids.
- Carbon dioxide-For small confined spaces like cabinets, closets, or server racks, you can use a carbon dioxide extinguisher. Carbon dioxide is non-toxic and can quickly fill a space to suffocate a fire. However, you should not use a carbon dioxide extinguisher in a confined space unless you have a breathing apparatus.
- Dry powder-You should not use a dry powder extinguisher in a confined space because the powder can be inhaled and it’s difficult to clean up. Dry powder extinguishers are also known as ABC extinguishers and can be used on class A, B, and C fires.
Check with your company representative to ensure you have the correct extinguisher and that it is inspected per your company’s requirements.
All Fire protection equipment must be accessible and ready for use.
To use a Fire Extinguisher; Use the PASS method
Pull the Pin
Aim at the BASE of the Fire
Squeeze the handle and
Sweep Back and Forth
