Selection, Installation and maintenance of first-aid fire extinguishers - Code o Practice

IS 2190: Scope & Key Specifications

IS 2190 covers portable fire extinguishers — their types, suitability, inspection, and maintenance.

Key Points:

• Rounding Off: Follow IS 2:1960 for rounding test or analysis values, keeping significant figures consistent.
• Referenced Standards: Annex A lists related IS codes (e.g., IS 940, IS 13849) for specific extinguisher types.
• Definitions: As per IS 7673.

Fire Extinguisher Suitability (Table 3, Clause 10.1)

Inspection & Maintenance (Clause 11.5)

• Check location, accessibility, and visibility.
• Verify legibility of operating instructions.
• Inspect safety seals, fullness, physical condition.
• Check pressure gauge.
• For wheeled units, inspect tyres, wheels, hose, nozzle.

flowchart TD
    A[Fire Extinguisher Types] --> B[Water Type]
    A --> C[Mechanical Foam]
    A --> D[Dry Powder]
    A --> E[CO2]
    A --> F[Clean Agent Gas]
    A --> G[

IS 2190: Referenced Indian Standards & Key Specifications

Hydraulic Pressure Testing Schedule (Annex E, Clause 12.2.1)

• Note: Extinguishers must be hydraulically tested with the cap on.
• No leakage or visible distortion allowed; failure requires replacement.

Life of Fire Extinguishers (Annex F)

• Life counted from date of manufacture.
• Immediate rejection if hydraulic test fails before life expiry.

Summary

• Hydraulic test pressure varies by extinguisher type, mostly 35 kg/cm² except CO₂ at 250 kg/cm².
• Test interval: Mostly every 3 years, CO₂ every 5 years.
• Extinguishers must pass tests without leakage/distortion.
• Maximum service life ranges from 10 to 15 years depending on type.

For detailed design, maintenance, and testing procedures, refer to the specific IS standards

IS 2190: Classification of Hazards & Fire Extinguisher Specifications

1. Classification of Hazards (Clause 4.4 & 4.4.1)

• Light (Low) Hazard (LH): Minor quantity of Class A combustibles; offices, classrooms, churches, guest rooms, etc.
• Ordinary (Moderate) Hazard (MH): Moderate combustibles; typical commercial and industrial occupancies.
• Extra (High) Hazard (HH): High combustibles; warehouses, sawmills, chemical plants.

2. Fire Extinguisher Size & Placement

For Class A Hazards (Table 1, Clause 5.4.1)

For Class B Hazards (Table 2, Clause 5.4.2)

3. Class C Hazards (Clause 5.4.3)

• Fire extinguishers for Class C hazards (energized electrical equipment) are sized based on the underlying Class A or B hazard.

Summary Diagram: Hazard Classification & Extinguisher Selection

flowchart TD
    A[Occupancy] --> B{Hazard Classification}
    B -->|Light Hazard| LH[1-A Extinguisher, Max 280 m²/unit]
    B -->|Ordinary Hazard| OH[1-A Extinguisher, Max 140 m²/unit]

IS 2190: Fire Extinguisher Number & Size Summary

1. Number & Size Determination (Clause 5.2)

• Based on hazard severity, fire spread rate, heat intensity, material type, building features, occupancy, and equipment.
• Authority decides considering all these factors to minimize risks.

2. Class A Hazards (Clause 5.4.1 & Table 1)

• Minimum extinguisher size and max travel distance depend on hazard grade.
• Example (from Table 1):

3. Class B Fires (Non-Flammable Liquids) (Clause 5.4.2 & Table 2)

• Sizes and distances vary by hazard grade.
• Example (from Table 2):

Key Notes:

• Extinguishers must be placed so travel distances do not exceed table limits.
• Sizes are typically in kg of extinguishing agent.
• Selection depends on fire class, hazard grade, and occupancy.

flowchart TD
    A[Assess Hazard Type] --> B{Class of Fire?}
    B -->|Class A| C[Use Table 1 for size & distance]
    B -->|Class B (non-flammable liquids)| D[Use Table 2 for size & distance]
    C --> E[Determine hazard grade]
    D --> E
    E --> F[Select extinguisher size & max travel distance]
    F --> G[Place extinguishers accordingly]

For exact tables and full details, refer to IS 2190 Clause 5.4 and Tables 1 & 2.

Selection of Location - IS 2190 Key Points (Clause 6.1 & related)

• Extinguishers must be placed considering the nature of risk to be covered (Class A, B, C, or D hazards).
• They should be in conspicuous, readily accessible locations for immediate use.
• Extinguishers are intended for incipient fires; early accessibility is critical.
• Maximum travel distances (from Tables 1, 2, Clause 5.4.3 & 5.4.4):
  • Class A: Max 15 m travel distance.
  • Class B: 9 to 15 m depending on hazard level.
  • Class C: Based on Class A or B hazard sizing/location.
  • Class D: Max 15 m travel distance.
• No major structural work is usually needed; if recesses are required, plan during construction (Clause 8.2).

Summary Table for Location Travel Distances

Location Selection Checklist

• Assess hazard class and severity.
• Ensure visibility and accessibility.
• Maintain maximum travel distances per hazard.
• Consider live electrical hazards; use tested extinguishers.
• Plan for installation during construction if recesses needed.

flowchart LR
    A[Identify Hazard Class] --> B[Determine Extinguisher Type & Size]
    B --> C[Select Location]
    C --> D{Is Location Conspicuous & Accessible?}
    D -- Yes --> E[Install Extinguisher]
    D -- No --> F[Choose Alternative Location]
    F --> C

This ensures extinguishers are effective and promptly usable in emergencies.

IS 2190 Installation Recommendations - Key Points

Fire Extinguisher Selection & Installation (Annex B & Clauses 5.3, 5.4)

• Occupancy Classification (IS 1641 based):

  • Group A: Residential (Class A & C fires)
  • Group B: Educational (Class A)
  • Group C: Institutional (Class A)
  • Group D: Assembly (Class A)
  • Group E: Business (Class A & B)
  • Group F: Mercantile (Class A)
  • Group G: Industrial (Class A, B, D)

• Fire Extinguisher Size & Placement:

• Class C Hazards: Extinguishers sized per anticipated Class A or B hazard.

• Minimum Extinguisher Provision Examples:

Installation Notes (Clause 8.2)

• No major structural work usually needed.
• Special recesses in walls should be planned during construction.
• Extinguishers installed post-construction completion.

IS 2190: Initial Inspection of Fire Extinguishers (Clause 7 & 11.5)

Key Inspection Items (Clause 11.5)

• Location & accessibility: extinguisher must be at designated place, unobstructed.
• Operating instructions: legible and facing outward.
• Safety seals/tamper indicators intact.
• Fullness: check by weighing or lifting.
• Physical condition: no damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzle.
• Pressure gauge: reading within operable range.
• For wheeled units: check tyres, wheels, carriage, hose, and nozzle.

Initial Inspection Procedure (Clause 7.1 & 12.4)

• Verify completeness and check for transit damage.
• Confirm manufacturer’s stamp (for gas cylinder extinguishers).
• Examine gas cartridge mass; replace if >10% mass loss.
• Check and clean nozzle, strainer, vent holes, discharge tube, sealing washer.
• Test operating mechanism for free movement and proper piercing.
• Refill extinguisher with clean water or appropriate compound.

Suitability Table (Table 3, Clause 10.1)

S = Suitable, NS = Not Suitable

Summary Diagram: Initial Inspection Flow

flowchart TD
    A[Receive New Extinguisher] --> B[Check Completeness & Damage]
    B --> C{Gas Cylinder?}
    C -->|Yes| D[Check Approval Stamp]
    C -->|

IS 2190: Inspection & Maintenance of Fire Extinguishers - Key Points

1. Periodic Inspection (Clause 11.5)

Check for:

• Location & accessibility
• Legible operating instructions
• Intact safety seals
• Fullness by weight/lift
• Physical damage, corrosion, leakage
• Pressure gauge in operable range
• Condition of tyres, wheels, hose (for wheeled units)

2. Suitability Table (Clause 10.1 - Table 3)

S = Suitable, NS = Not Suitable

3. Gas Cartridge (Clause 12.4)

• Replace/recharge if >10% mass loss.
• Hydrostatic test per IS 4947 before reuse.

4. Maintenance Highlights for Types

• Water Stored Pressure: Check pressure gauge, weigh, inspect nozzle/hose, refill water, test discharge every 2 years.
• Foam Mechanical: Check liquid level, sediment, corrosion, gas cartridge mass, clean/replace nozzle parts.
• Dry Powder: Open in dry room, check powder condition (no caking), weigh cartridge, clean internal parts.
• CO2 Type: Weigh extinguisher, inspect hose/horn, replace if >10% mass loss.

5. Records & Disposal

• Maintain detailed maintenance & inspection register (Annex G).
• Cut rejected extinguishers centrally to prevent reuse; record disposal date.

Quick Reference: Gas Cartridge Mass Check Formula

[ \text{Mass Loss %} = \

IS 2190 - Safety Precautions for Maintenance of Fire Extinguishers

Key Safety Guidelines (Clauses 11.10, 11.10.1, 11.10.2)

• Before Opening Extinguisher (11.10.1):

  • Ensure no residual pressure in hose/nozzle.
  • Unscrew valve slowly (2-3 turns) to release pressure via vent holes.
  • Do not rely solely on pressure gauges.
  • Use clamps and PPE if pressure resists release.
  • Never remove valves under filled conditions.
  • Keep clear of parts that may eject.

• During Maintenance (11.10.2):

  • Open dry powder extinguishers only in dry conditions; minimize exposure time.
  • Avoid mixing different powder types (BC/ABC/D) to prevent dangerous chemical reactions.
  • Clean and lubricate sealing components to prevent leaks.
  • Use only recommended gas cartridges; avoid higher capacities.
  • Avoid long storage of recharge materials; they deteriorate with moisture/age.
  • Use blowers/dryers to remove moisture from hoses; compressors have high moisture.
  • Annually test hoses of large capacity extinguishers (without nozzles).

• Maintenance Schedule (11.4):

  • Follow approved periodic inspection to ensure operational readiness and safety.

Summary Table: Critical Safety Points

flowchart TD
    A[Start Maintenance] --> B{Residual Pressure?}
    B -- Yes --> C[Slowly unscrew valve 2-3 turns]
    C --> D{Pressure Released?}
    D -- No --> E[Use clamps & PPE]
    D -- Yes --> F[Open fully, proceed]
    B -- No --> F
    F --> G[Check powder type & condition

IS 2190: Key Points on Recharging and Refilling Procedures

1. General Guidelines (Clause 15.1.2)

• Follow manufacturer’s recommendations strictly during recharging.

2. Gas Cartridge (Clause 12.4)

• If cartridge loses >10% of original mass → send for recharging.
• Hydrostatic test as per IS 4947 is mandatory before reuse.
• Only cartridges passing the test are reused.

3. Measurement for Liquid Agent in Stored-Pressure Extinguishers (Clause 15.3.10)

• Avoid overfilling to prevent improper discharge.
• Use one of the following for correct fill:
  • Weight measurement
  • Volume measurement
  • Anti-overfill tube
  • Fill mark on shell

4. Safety Guidelines (Clause 11.10.2)

• Open dry powder extinguishers only in dry conditions.
• Avoid mixing different powder types to prevent dangerous reactions.
• Clean & lubricate sealing components.
• Check pressure gauges for proper reading.
• Never connect extinguisher directly to high-pressure source.
• Use only recommended cartridge capacities.
• Avoid long storage of recharge materials.
• Use blowers/dryers to remove moisture from hoses.
• Annually test hoses on high-capacity dry powder and CO₂ extinguishers.

5. Rejected Extinguishers (Clause 14)

• Cut centrally and make unusable before disposal.
• Record rejection date and disposal mode in register (Annex G).

6. Maintenance Records (Clause 13)

• Maintain detailed records of inspection, maintenance, testing, and operational history as per Annex G.

flowchart LR
    A[Extinguisher Inspection] --> B{Loss of Cartridge Mass >10%?}
    B -- Yes --> C[Send Cartridge for Hydrostatic Test (IS 4947)]
    C --> D{Pass Test?}
    D -- Yes --> E[Recharge Cartridge]
    D -- No --> F[Reject & Dispose]
    B -- No --> G[Continue Use]
    E --> H[Fill Agent by Weight/Volume/Tube/Mark]
    H --> I[Check Seals & Pressure Gauge]
    I --> J[Record Maintenance in Register]

IS 2190: Maintenance of Records for Fire Extinguishers (Clause 13)

• Record Keeping:
  Maintain a register of all fire extinguishers covering:

  • Maintenance
  • Inspection
  • Testing
  • Operational history

• Format:
  Use the format prescribed in Annex G of IS 2190 for the register.

• Rejected Extinguishers (Clause 14):

  • Cut rejected extinguishers centrally to prevent reuse.
  • Record date of rejection and disposal method in the register.

• Gas Cartridge Maintenance (Clause 12.4):

  • If cartridge mass loss >10%, send for recharging.
  • Hydrostatic test as per IS 4947 before reuse.

Key Points for Maintenance Records

Maintenance Checklist Summary (Clause 11.5)

• Location & accessibility
• Legibility of instructions
• Safety seals intact
• Fullness by weight/lift
• Physical damage, corrosion, leakage
• Pressure gauge in operable range
• Condition of hose, nozzle, wheels (if any)

flowchart TD
    A[Fire Extinguisher] --> B[Inspection]
    B --> C{Is cartridge gas?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Check mass loss >10%?]
    D -- Yes --> E[Send for recharge + Hydrostatic Test (IS 4947)]
    D -- No --> F[Continue use]
    C -- No --> F
    F --> G[Record inspection & maintenance (Annex G)]
    G --> H{Rejected?}
    H -- Yes --> I[Cut extinguisher, record rejection & disposal]
    H -- No --> J[Keep in service]

Summary: Maintain detailed, formatted records of all inspections, tests, and maintenance as per Annex G. Follow hydrostatic testing for gas cartridges and ensure rejected extinguishers are rendered unusable and recorded properly

Handling and Disposal of Rejected Fire Extinguishers (IS 2190: Clause 14)

• Disposal Method:
  Rejected extinguishers must be cut centrally across the body to render them unusable, preventing any future use.

• Record Keeping:
  Record the date of rejection and mode of disposal in the extinguisher register (see Annex G).

Key Specifications for Rejection Criteria

Important Formulas and Checks

• Mass Loss Check:
  [ \text{Mass Loss %} = \frac{\text{Original Mass} - \text{Current Mass}}{\text{Original Mass}} \times 100 ] If >10%, reject or recharge.

• Hydrostatic Test:
  Required for gas cartridges per IS 4947 before reuse.

Safety Guidelines

• Open dry powder extinguishers in dry conditions to avoid moisture-induced caking.
• Avoid mixing different powder types to prevent chemical reactions.
• Use only recommended gas cartridges; never exceed rated capacity.
• Calibrate pressure gauges and safety valves every 3 years for high-capacity extinguishers.

flowchart TD
    A[Inspection] --> B{Mass Loss > 10%?}
    B -- Yes --> C[Send for Recharging or Reject]
    B -- No --> D[Check for Corrosion/Damage]
    D -- Yes --> E[Reject & Cut Body]
    D -- No --> F[Clean & Refill]
    E --> G[Record Rejection & Disposal]
    F --> H[Return to Service]

This ensures safe disposal

IS 2190: Periodic Testing and Hydrostatic Tests Summary

1. Hydraulic Pressure Test (Clause 12.2 & 12.2.1)

• Frequency: As per Annex E; at least 1/3 of extinguishers tested yearly.
• Acceptance: Extinguishers passing test retained; failed ones repaired and retested or condemned.
• Life Limit: Extinguishers discarded after expiry per Annex F.

2. Pressure Test Procedure (Clause 12.2.2)

• Remove valves/internal parts; empty extinguisher.
• Clean shell from extinguishing materials.
• Remove external gas cartridges; plug openings.
• Connect hydrostatic test pump hose to discharge/test fitting.
• Place extinguisher in protective cage/shield.
• Slowly tighten test cap while bleeding air, then fully tighten.

3. Key Specifications (Annex E)

4. Refilling & Operational Test (Annex D)

• Annual refilling and performance operation tests cyclically.

flowchart TD
    A[Start] --> B[Remove valves & empty extinguisher]
    B --> C[Clean shell thoroughly]
    C --> D{Externally mounted cartridges?}
    D -- Yes --> E[Remove & plug openings]
    D -- No --> F[Connect test pump hose]
    E --> F
    F --> G[Place in protective cage/shield]
    G --> H[Slowly tighten cap & bleed air]
    H --> I[Fully tighten cap]
    I --> J[Apply test pressure & hold for duration]
    J --> K{Pass test?}
    K -- Yes --> L[Retain extinguisher]
    K -- No --> M[Repair & retest or condemn]

Note: Always refer to IS 2190 Annexes D, E, and F for detailed intervals, pressures, and life limits.

IS 2190 Key Points: Special Considerations for Different Fire Extinguisher Types

1. Fire Classes & Extinguisher Suitability (Clause 9 & 10)

2. Table 3: Extinguisher Suitability Summary

S = Suitable, NS = Not Suitable

3. Inspection & Maintenance (Clause 11.5)

• Check location, accessibility, legibility of instructions.
• Verify seals, fullness (weigh/lift), physical condition.
• Pressure gauge in operable range.
• For wheeled units, check tyres, wheels, hose, nozzle.

4. Special Notes

• Use extinguishers passing electrical conductivity tests on live electrical equipment.
• Installation usually post-construction; recesses in walls require advance provision (Clause 8.2).

flowchart TD
    A[Fire Classes] -->|Class A| B[Water, Foam, ABC Powder]
    A -->|Class B| C[Foam, Dry Powder, CO2]
    A -->

IS 2190 Key Points on Spare Refills and Replacement Parts

1. Spare Refills

• Refills must be of same fire rating as original extinguisher (Clause 7.2).
• Use refills provided by manufacturer and conforming to relevant Indian Standards (Annex A).
• Halon extinguishers: No refilling/discharging at site (Montreal Protocol).

2. Gas Cartridges (Clause 12.4)

• If cartridge mass loss > 10%, send for recharging.
• Hydrostatic test per IS 4947 mandatory before reuse.
• Only reuse if it passes hydrostatic test.

3. Charging Quantities (Clause 15.3.10)

To avoid overfilling in water-type extinguishers, use one of:

• Exact weight measurement
• Exact volume measurement
• Anti-overfill tube (if provided)
• Fill mark on shell (if provided)

4. Rejected Extinguishers (Clause 14)

• Cut centrally to make unusable.
• Record date and disposal mode in maintenance register (Annex G).

Summary Table: Cartridge Refill Criteria

flowchart TD
    A[Check Cartridge Mass Loss] -->|>10%| B[Send for Recharging]
    B --> C[Hydrostatic Test (IS 4947)]
    C -->|Pass| D[Reuse Cartridge]
    C -->|Fail| E[Reject Cartridge]
    A -->|≤10%| F[Use Cartridge as is]

Maintain records of all maintenance, inspection, and disposal as per Annex G format.