There are several factors you’ll have to consider when installing fire extinguishers in your commercial business. In addition to making sure you install enough units for the size of your business, you’ll have to choose the best placement for every extinguisher.
Here is how you can ensure your extinguisher placement is effective in ensuring the fire safety of your business.
Comply With New Jersey Fire Safety Codes
Your first step in placing a fire extinguisher in New Jersey commercial spaces is knowing how many units you will need. There must be a minimum of one extinguisher for every floor of your business. Additionally, make sure no one will have to walk farther than 75 feet to reach the nearest extinguisher.
The only exception to this rule involves businesses that have kitchens. If you have a kitchen in your building, there must be a fire extinguisher within 50 feet of every stove or oven. According to New Jersey Administrative Code Section 8:111-25.7, kitchen fire extinguishers should be class B or type 2B for dry chemical fires.
Ensure Each Fire Extinguisher Is Accessible
You might want to look for a place to install your fire extinguishers that will save space or keep them out of the way. However, it’s also important to make sure that they aren’t difficult to access. Even if your business uses fire sprinkler systems, you must keep your portable fire extinguishers positioned in well-traveled areas.
Opt for placing extinguishers close to exits and in conspicuous areas. You can install wall brackets that will hold the extinguishers in easy locations. Ensure the extinguishers won’t get obstructed by an open door, shelves, or other obstacles. Anyone in your facility should be able to reach the extinguishers quickly and easily.
Make Sure Every Extinguisher Is Visible
Visibility is as important as accessibility in placing fire extinguishers throughout your business. Your employees should know exactly where to go to get a portable extinguisher. It can help to place signs over each location so personnel or customers can identify the location of extinguishers from several feet away.
Every extinguisher will have a label on the front of the unit. The label identifies the type or class of fire extinguisher as well as provides instructions for its use. This label should always face outward. This is a New Jersey regulation that ensures each extinguisher can be promptly and properly used when there is a fire.
The Height of Each Extinguisher Matters
There are also regulations regarding the height of the extinguisher’s placement. Failing to meet these requirements can adversely affect the outcome of your fire extinguisher inspection in NJ. Since you will need to schedule the inspection every 12 months, it helps to install the extinguishers properly as soon as you open your business.
A 40-pound fire extinguisher should hang on the wall so that the top of the extinguisher isn’t more than five feet from the floor. Unless wheeled, hang fire extinguishers heavier than 40 pounds at a maximum height of 3 ½ feet. There must be a minimum clearance of four inches between the bottom of every fire extinguisher and the floor.
These requirements apply whether you use a wall bracket, hanger, or an approved extinguisher case. If you have questions regarding the placement of your fire extinguisher, your local fire department may be able to help.
Keep Your Business Cool With the Best Fire Suppression Technology
At ABC Fire & Safety, we take pride in providing the equipment you need to create a comprehensive fire protection system for your New Jersey business. From alarms and portable extinguishers to comprehensive kitchen fire suppression systems, we carry all of the state-of-the-art fire protection equipment your business needs.
Contact us to learn more about how to protect your business against fires today.