Carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguishers are commonly used to control electrical fires and fires involving flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oils, or solvents.
These extinguishers work by displacing the fire's oxygen, smothering it without leaving any harmful residue.
This makes them especially valuable in offices, server rooms, and industrial settings where electrical equipment and delicate machinery are present.
This is the main reason we have to learn about the uses of carbon dioxide fire extinguishers.
CO2 extinguishers are crucial for fire safety because they provide a clean and efficient way to handle specific fires without damaging equipment or contaminating the area.
A CO2 fire extinguisher can be a lifesaver in environments where electrical equipment is widely used, such as IT departments, factories, or even restaurants.
In Canada, workplace safety regulations emphasize the need for having appropriate fire safety equipment, including CO2 extinguishers, in areas where electrical or flammable liquid fires may occur.
According to the Ontario Electrical Safety Report, about 18% of workplace fires in Canada are related to electrical equipment, underscoring the importance of being prepared with the right extinguishing tools.
By understanding the role of CO2 extinguishers, businesses can better equip their spaces to handle potential fire hazards, protect valuable assets, and ensure the safety of their employees.
What is a Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguisher?
A carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguisher is a fire safety device designed to extinguish fires caused by flammable liquids and electrical equipment.
Unlike other extinguishers, CO2 extinguishers release carbon dioxide gas, displacing the oxygen around the fire. This smothers the fire, cutting off its oxygen supply and extinguishing the flames without leaving any residue.
Because CO2 gas evaporates quickly, it's an ideal solution for sensitive areas where water or foam could cause damage, such as in offices, data centers, or industrial settings with electrical equipment.
Physically, a CO2 fire extinguisher is easily identified by its hard, black horn instead of a nozzle, which directs the gas toward the fire.
Unlike many other classes of extinguishers, these extinguishers typically do not have a pressure gauge. The extinguisher's body is usually made from steel, as it needs to handle the high pressure of the gas stored inside.
CO2 fire extinguishers come in various sizes, depending on their intended setting.
Standard sizes include 2 kg and 5 kg models used in smaller areas like offices or homes and larger models for industrial or commercial environments.
This versatility makes CO2 extinguishers a key part of any fire safety plan where electrical or liquid fires are a concern.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Fire Extinguishers Uses
Carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguishers are primarily used for specific fires where other extinguishing agents, like water or foam, might be ineffective or hazardous.
They are best suited for environments with standard fires involving flammable liquids or electrical equipment.
Since CO2 extinguishers don't leave behind residue, they are especially useful in settings where equipment needs to be protected from damage.
1. Class B Fires: Flammable Liquids
Class B fires involve flammable liquids, including petrol, gasoline, oil-based paints, alcohols, solvents, and certain plastics.
Due to the volatile nature of the liquids, these fires can spread quickly and become dangerous.
Since water-based extinguishers are ineffective and can sometimes make matters worse by spreading the liquid, CO2 extinguishers are a much safer and more practical option for tackling Class B fires.
The CO2 gas displaces the oxygen around the fire, starving it of the fuel it needs to continue burning.
CO2 extinguishers are particularly suitable for environments where flammable liquids are handled or stored. These include industrial settings such as workshops, garages, and laboratories where materials like solvents, oils, and other chemicals are frequently used.
In these locations, a CO2 extinguisher can be critical for quickly dealing with flare-ups before they escalate into more serious incidents.
By removing the oxygen and smothering the fire, the extinguisher provides an immediate solution without causing further damage to the equipment or leaving any residue behind.
2. Class C Fires: Electrical Equipment
Class C fires involve electrical equipment such as computers, servers, power tools, and other devices that run on electricity.
These fires are dangerous because using water or foam-based extinguishers could result in electrical shock or further damage to sensitive electronics.
As electricity plays a direct role in these types of fires, cutting off the power source is crucial to safely extinguishing them.
CO2 fire extinguishers are particularly effective for Class C fires because carbon dioxide is non-conductive, reducing the risk of electrical shock during use.
When discharged, the CO2 replaces the oxygen around the fire, suffocating the flames and preventing them from spreading.
Unlike water or foam extinguishers, CO2 doesn't leave any residue behind, making it a safe choice for protecting electrical equipment. This is a significant advantage in environments where cleanup or potential device damage could be costly.
Class C fires are most likely to occur in places with significant electronic equipment, such as server rooms, data centers, offices with computers, and even homes with appliances.
They can also happen in workshops where power tools and machines are used. In these settings, a CO2 extinguisher is an essential safety tool.
By providing immediate control over electrical fires without the risk of damaging the equipment or causing further hazards, CO2 extinguishers help protect both people and valuable technology in these high-risk environments.
Advantages of Using CO2 Fire Extinguishers
CO2 fire extinguishers offer several key advantages, making them a preferred choice for specific fire risks, particularly in environments with electrical equipment and flammable liquids.
Below are the primary benefits of using carbon dioxide extinguishers:
1. No Residue Left Behind
One of the standout advantages of CO2 fire extinguishers is that they leave no residue after discharge.
This is particularly important when dealing with fires involving sensitive electronic equipment or valuable assets, such as computers, servers, and electrical panels.
Unlike foam or powder extinguishers that may leave behind a mess requiring extensive cleanup and potentially causing damage to devices, CO2 extinguishers leave the area clean, with no risk of corrosion or contamination.
This makes them ideal for use in data centers, laboratories, and offices where the cleanliness of the workspace is essential.
2. Effective in Confined Spaces
CO2 extinguishers are highly effective in confined or enclosed spaces. When carbon dioxide is discharged, it displaces the oxygen in the surrounding area, which is needed to fuel the fire.
This rapid smothering effect is beneficial in small rooms or areas where water-based extinguishers could cause significant damage to equipment or the building structure.
Additionally, using water or foam extinguishers in confined spaces can sometimes damage the water or introduce additional hazards, such as electrical shock, when used near live circuits.
CO2 extinguishers avoid these risks, making them an excellent choice for offices, workshops, and areas with flammable materials.
3. Quick Discharge
CO2 extinguishers release their contents rapidly, providing a swift means to control fires before they spread.
The fast discharge helps suffocate flames by immediately cutting off their oxygen supply.
This is particularly critical when combating fires involving flammable liquids (Class B fires) or electrical equipment (Class C fires), where swift action is needed to prevent escalation.
The quick discharge, combined with CO2's non-conductive properties, makes it a highly effective tool in stopping electrical fires without endangering the user.
These features make them a crucial safety asset, especially when electronic equipment or flammable liquids pose significant fire risks.
Limitations and Safety Considerations
While CO2 fire extinguishers offer many advantages, there are situations where they should not be used and safety risks to consider. Understanding these limitations is essential for proper fire safety management.
1. Situations to Avoid Using CO2 Extinguishers
CO2 extinguishers are not suitable for all types of fires. One significant limitation is their ineffectiveness against Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats.
These fires are common in commercial kitchens, and using CO2 could make the situation worse by causing the burning oil to splatter, potentially spreading the fire. For these fires, wet chemical extinguishers are recommended.
Similarly, CO2 extinguishers should not be used for flammable gas fires (Class B involving gases). In the case of a gas leak, using CO2 may not extinguish the fire and can lead to dangerous outcomes, such as increased gas flow if the fire acts as a seal.
CO2 extinguishers should be used with caution in confined spaces. Since carbon dioxide displaces oxygen, using one in a small, unventilated area could lead to asphyxiation for anyone present.
When using a CO2 extinguisher in an enclosed area, it's critical to ensure adequate ventilation or a clear exit.
2. Risks of Asphyxiation and Frostbite
CO2 extinguishers present two primary safety risks when misused: asphyxiation and frostbite.
Carbon dioxide displaces oxygen, leading to a dangerous drop in breathable air, especially in confined spaces. This poses a serious risk to anyone attempting to fight a fire without proper safety measures.
Frostbite is another concern. CO2 is stored under high pressure and is released at extremely low temperatures when discharged.
If the extinguisher's nozzle or horn comes into direct contact with the skin, it can cause frostbite, leading to serious injury. Always hold the CO2 extinguisher by its handle to prevent this and avoid touching the horn.
While CO2 extinguishers are invaluable for certain types of fires, it is crucial to understand their limitations and follow safety guidelines to avoid dangerous outcomes.
How Do CO2 Fire Extinguishers Work?
Carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguishers operate by removing two critical elements needed for a fire to continue burning: oxygen and heat. This dual-action mechanism makes CO2 extinguishers highly effective in specific fire scenarios.
Here is the detailed step-by-step process to help you understand how to use CO2 extinguishers and the properties and mechanism of action.
Step 1: Take Essential Safety Precautions
• Before using a CO2 fire extinguisher, alert everyone nearby by sounding or pulling a fire alarm to notify the building occupants.
• Identify a safe evacuation route in case the fire escalates beyond control. Equip yourself with protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and a mask, to shield against harmful particles or fumes.
• Ensure the CO2 extinguisher suits the fire class you're dealing with.
Step 2: Assess the Fire Situation
• Confirm that the fire is a Class B (flammable liquids) or Class C (electrical) fire, as CO2 extinguishers are specifically designed for these types.
• Evaluate the fire's size and location. If it's rapidly spreading, evacuate and call the fire department immediately.
Step 3: Get the Extinguisher Ready
• Retrieve the CO2 extinguisher and check that it is fully charged and in good working condition.
• Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher, breaking the tamper seal and unlocking the handle.
Step 4: Operate the Extinguisher Safely
• Position yourself 6 to 8 feet from the fire.
• To cut off the fire's fuel source, aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, not at the flames.
• Squeeze the handle to release the CO2 gas, then use a sweeping motion from side to side, keeping the focus on the fire's base until it's fully extinguished.
Step 5: Follow Post-Use Protocols
• Once the fire is out, monitor the area for signs of reignition.
• Ventilate the space to disperse any remaining carbon dioxide, as it can reduce oxygen levels and make breathing difficult.
• Ensure the extinguisher is recharged or replaced by a professional, as CO2 extinguishers should only be refilled with proper expertise.
Mechanism of Action: Displacing Oxygen and Cooling the Fire
The primary way CO2 extinguishers work is by displacing the oxygen that fuels the fire.
Fires need oxygen to keep burning, and by flooding the area with carbon dioxide gas, the oxygen level around the fire drops significantly, causing the flames to suffocate and extinguish.
CO2 is heavier than air, so when released, it settles over the fire and quickly cuts off the oxygen supply.
This process is particularly effective for Class B fires involving flammable liquids, like gasoline or oil, and Class C fires that involve electrical equipment.
CO2 removes oxygen and cools the fire. When the gas is released from the extinguisher, it is stored at very high pressure and low temperature.
As the CO2 expands rapidly into the air, it creates a cooling effect, helping to lower the fire's temperature and further extinguish it.
However, the cooling effect is relatively brief, meaning CO2 may be less effective for large fires or those involving deep-seated flames.
Properties of CO2
Several properties of carbon dioxide make it an effective fire suppression agent.
First, it is non-flammable and does not contribute to the fire's growth or spread.
CO2 is also inert, meaning it does not react with most substances, making it safe for electrical equipment use without causing further chemical reactions.
Another key benefit of CO2 is that it leaves no residue after use. This is especially important in environments like offices, laboratories, and data centers, where water or foam could damage sensitive equipment.
Since CO2 evaporates entirely, there is no need for cleanup after the fire is extinguished, and there is no risk of damaging electronic devices.
CO2 fire extinguishers work by displacing oxygen and cooling the fire, leveraging the properties of carbon dioxide to effectively suppress certain types of fires without leaving a mess behind.
Safety Precautions of Using CO2 Fire Extinguishers
CO2 fire extinguishers are highly effective for certain types of fires but require careful handling to avoid potential risks.
Following safety precautions ensures the extinguisher is used correctly, minimizing hazards and maximizing its effectiveness in an emergency.
Proper Handling Techniques
One of the most important safety precautions when using a CO2 extinguisher is always holding it by the handle, not the nozzle or discharge horn.
CO2 is stored under high pressure and is released at an extremely low temperature, which can cause frostbite if it touches the skin. The discharge horn can become extremely cold during use, so avoid direct contact.
CO2 extinguishers typically have a hard horn without a pressure gauge, so it's essential to know how to operate them correctly.
Another critical safety precaution is to ensure the area is ventilated when using a CO2 extinguisher in confined spaces.
Since CO2 displaces oxygen, using it in a small, enclosed area without proper airflow can lead to asphyxiation.
Ensure there is an escape route, and if necessary, only use the extinguisher in conjunction with other safety equipment, like respiratory protection, in areas with limited ventilation.
Finally, remember that CO2 extinguishers are not suitable for all fire types. They are most effective on Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (electrical) fires.
Never use a CO2 extinguisher on Class F fires, such as those involving cooking oils, as it could worsen the situation.
Importance of Training
Training staff on properly using CO2 extinguishers is essential to ensure they are prepared to respond to fire emergencies safely and effectively.
Regular fire safety training sessions should include practical demonstrations on operating CO2 extinguishers, emphasizing the specific hazards associated with their use.
Staff should learn when and where it's appropriate to use CO2 and how to handle the extinguisher without harming themselves or others. This training reduces panic in emergency situations and ensures swift, safe responses.
Canada Safety Training Centre offers a comprehensive Fire Extinguisher Training Program that covers the essentials of using CO2 extinguishers and other fire safety equipment. Here are some of the main topics covered:
• Understanding fire extinguisher colors
• Causes of workplace fires
• Different classes of fire extinguishers
• How to use a fire extinguisher
• Importance of fire safety training
• Fire extinguisher safety tips
Proper training equips employees with the knowledge to handle fire emergencies confidently and safely, helping minimize risks and prevent accidents.
Adhering to these safety precautions and ensuring all staff are trained can help organizations ensure the safe and effective use of CO2 fire extinguishers in the workplace.
FAQs
When can you use a carbon dioxide extinguisher?
A CO2 extinguisher can be used on Class B fires involving flammable liquids and Class C fires involving electrical equipment. It's ideal for fires in areas with sensitive electronics, such as offices and server rooms.
What is CO2 treated as the best extinguisher for?
CO2 is the best extinguisher for electrical and flammable liquid fires (Class B). It leaves no residue and doesn't damage equipment, making it ideal for environments with electronics.
Where not to use a CO2 fire extinguisher?
Avoid using CO2 extinguishers on Class F fires (cooking oils), fires involving flammable gases, and confined spaces without ventilation due to the risk of asphyxiation.
What materials would you use a CO2 extinguisher for?
CO2 extinguishers are used for fires involving flammable liquids like gasoline, oil, and solvents and electrical equipment fires, such as in offices and data centers.
Why are CO2 fire extinguishers so expensive?
CO2 fire extinguishers are more expensive due to the high pressure required to store CO2 in a compressed state, specialized equipment for safe discharge, and their effectiveness in handling specific fire types without causing damage.
Conclusion
Carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguishers are essential tools for effectively combating specific fire types, particularly Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (electrical equipment) fires.
They are ideal for offices, server rooms, and laboratories with electronic equipment or flammable liquids.
One of their key advantages is that they leave no residue, making them perfect for settings where cleanliness and equipment safety are crucial.
CO2 extinguishers work by displacing oxygen, which smothers the flames, and rapidly cooling the fire, preventing it from spreading.
However, they should never be used in confined spaces or on fires involving cooking oils or flammable gases, as this can create additional safety risks, including asphyxiation.
Proper handling and training are essential for using carbon dioxide fire extinguishers safely.
Having the right fire extinguisher readily available in workplaces, homes, and industrial settings is critical for quick-fire response.
CO2 fire extinguishers offer reliable, efficient protection for specific fire types, but they must be used cautiously and in the correct circumstances.