Four out of 10 construction workers don’t know how to use carbon dioxide fire extinguishers correctly for electrical fires. This lack of knowledge creates dangerous situations, especially since electrical issues caused 19% of all fires in 2021 – making them the leading cause of fire incidents.

CO2 fire extinguishers work best with Class B flammable liquid fires and electrical fires. These units operate at about 55 BAR pressure, which is much higher than the 12 BAR in water-based units. Server rooms and areas with sensitive electronic equipment benefit from CO2 extinguishers because they don’t leave residue behind, unlike dry powder versions. But this same quality can be risky if someone uses them incorrectly.

These extinguishers can be dangerous in ways many people don’t realize. They can cause breathing problems by removing oxygen from confined spaces. The very cold discharge can give you frostbite, and they won’t help at all with Class A ordinary combustible fires. The units need hydrostatic testing every five years to work reliably. Knowing when to use a carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguisher could mean the difference between putting out a fire safely and making things worse.

Why CO2 Fire Extinguishers Are Misunderstood

Movies and TV shows make carbon dioxide fire extinguishers look like the most common and effective type. This visual choice comes from their clean discharge, which makes them perfect for multiple filming takes. It doesn’t reflect their actual role in fire safety. These portrayals have led to substantial public confusion about these specialized fire safety tools.

What is a carbon dioxide extinguisher?

A carbon dioxide extinguisher serves as a specialized firefighting tool. We designed it for Class B fires (with flammable liquids and gasses) and Class C fires (with energized electrical equipment). CO2 fire extinguishers work differently from standard ones. They contain pressurized liquid carbon dioxide that turns into gas once released.

You can spot these extinguishers by their unique features. They come with a hard horn nozzle to direct the CO2 stream and don’t have the pressure gage you’ll find on other types. The liquid carbon dioxide expands faster into gas when activated because of the extreme pressure inside. Sometimes, bits of dry ice shoot out from the horn.

CO2 fire extinguishers work in a simple yet powerful way. Unlike water-based options that cool flames, carbon dioxide smothers the fire by pushing away oxygen. The CO2 gas weighs more than air, so it forces out the oxygen that keeps the fire burning. The quick expansion of carbon dioxide also creates a cooling effect that helps put out the fire.

These extinguishers leave no trace after use – a huge advantage. This makes them the best choice for places with expensive electronic equipment where other extinguisher types might leave harmful residue.

Common myths about CO2 fire extinguisher use

People often think carbon dioxide extinguishers work well on all fire types. The truth is they only work on Class B flammable liquid fires and Class C electrical fires. They don’t help much with Class A fires that involve regular materials like wood, paper, or textiles.

There’s another reason why these aren’t the best all-purpose option. ABC multipurpose dry chemical extinguishers offer better coverage and firefighting capability for general use.

CO2 extinguishers don’t perform well outdoors. Wind can blow away the carbon dioxide and let oxygen back to the flames. They also have a shorter range – only 3-10 feet compared to ABC extinguishers that reach about twice as far.

Regular maintenance matters more than most people think. BAFE suggests getting new CO2 extinguishers after 10 years. You should also test them every five years to make sure they work properly.

The biggest safety risk comes from using these extinguishers in small spaces. The CO2 pushes out breathable oxygen, which can lead to suffocation. This becomes dangerous when CO2 levels hit 4% or higher – at this point, it turns poisonous.

Learning about these differences helps people use CO2 fire extinguishers the right way, making them more effective and safer to use.

What Types of Fires Can a CO2 Extinguisher Handle?

Safety volunteers and community organizers need to know exactly what carbon dioxide fire extinguishers can and cannot do when they coordinate emergency preparedness programs. CO2 extinguishers work differently from other fire suppression tools.

Carbon dioxide fire extinguisher class explained

Fire safety experts group extinguishers based on the types of fires they can curb. CO2 extinguishers fit into specific groups within this system. The National Fire Protection Association has listed CO2 extinguishers to work only on Class B and Class C fires. This classification helps determine where you should place these extinguishers and when you should use them.

Class B fires happen with flammable liquids like gasoline, oil, grease, and solvents. Class C fires occur in electrical equipment that’s plugged in and carrying current. CO2 extinguishers earned this dual rating because they smother these specific fire types without leaving any residue behind.

CO2 extinguishers won’t work on Class A fires (wood, paper, and cloth). They can’t push out enough oxygen to put out these materials completely, which might keep smoldering and could start burning again.

CO2 fire extinguisher used for what type of fire

CO2 fire extinguishers have a unique way of putting out fires that makes them perfect for certain places. The CO2 pushes oxygen away from the fire and smothers the flames. The CO2 also expands faster and cools down the fire at the same time.

These extinguishers work best in:

• Server rooms and data centers with delicate computer equipment
• Offices with lots of electrical systems
• Workshops that use flammable liquids
• Manufacturing plants that work with chemicals
• Mechanical repair shops and factories
• Medical facilities with special equipment needs

CO2 extinguishers shine in these places because they don’t leave any mess after use. This protects expensive electronic equipment that powder or water-based extinguishers might damage.

Class B carbon dioxide fire extinguisher and electrical fires

CO2 extinguishers work well on flammable liquid fires (Class B). They cool and smother flames from things like gasoline, oil, and many solvents. Notwithstanding that, some flammable liquids don’t react well to CO2, and oil fires might get worse.

These extinguishers really stand out with electrical fires (Class C). You can safely use them on live electrical equipment because they don’t conduct electricity. This prevents short-circuits and other electrical dangers. That’s why CO2 extinguishers are the top choice for electrical fires, especially in server rooms and similar spaces.

CO2 fire extinguishers do have their limits. They only spray 3 to 8 feet (1 to 2.4 meters), which is much shorter than other extinguisher types. They also don’t work well outdoors or in windy areas because the CO2 disperses too quickly.

You need to understand both strengths and weaknesses to place CO2 extinguishers correctly. These units come in two and five-kilogram sizes and should be near flammable liquids and electrical equipment. Make sure other types of extinguishers are available nearby for different fire classes.

The Hidden Risks of Using a CO2 Fire Extinguisher

CO2 fire extinguishers work well on certain types of fires, but they come with hidden dangers that volunteer safety coordinators need to know about. These risks matter a lot during community emergency drills and workplace safety training sessions.

Asphyxiation dangers in confined spaces

CO2 extinguishers work by pushing out oxygen—which we need to breathe. People can lose consciousness, have convulsions, fall into a coma, and die within a minute of their first breath when CO2 levels go above 17%. Even lower levels between 7-10% can make people pass out, feel dizzy, get headaches, and struggle to breathe within minutes.

The gas builds up faster in poorly ventilated areas when someone uses a CO2 fire extinguisher. Small rooms, closets, and enclosed equipment spaces face the highest risk. Safety trainers must stress that people should never use CO2 extinguishers in tight spaces without proper airflow and a clear escape plan.

Frost burns and handling mistakes

These extinguishers release CO2 at very cold temperatures—around -78°C (-109°F). The super-cold spray can cause serious frost burns if it touches skin. Users who touch the discharge horn or metal pipe while using it can get immediate cold injuries and damage their skin.

People most often get hurt with CO2 fire extinguishers when they:

• Hold the discharge horn during use
• Let CO2 leak where the valve meets the horn
• Let the CO2 spray touch their bare skin

Today’s CO2 extinguishers usually come with double-skinned “frost-free” horns that help protect users. Even with these safety features, proper training remains crucial since CO2 gas can hurt you in seconds.

Quick discharge and limited fire coverage

CO2 extinguishers empty their contents faster than other types. Users have little time to put out the fire before the extinguisher runs dry. The quick spray time and short range of just 3-8 feet (1-2.4 meters) make them much less effective.

Unlike dry powder extinguishers, CO2 units don’t work well outdoors or in windy areas. The gas spreads out too fast to properly smother the flames. On top of that, fires can start up again once the CO2 disperses into the air.

The biggest problem for volunteer trainers is that these limits often show up only in real emergencies. CO2 extinguishers might fail when needed most if they don’t get regular hydrostatic testing, putting everyone’s safety at risk.

Mistakes People Make with CO2 Fire Extinguishers

Safety teams can make serious mistakes with carbon dioxide fire extinguishers, even with the best equipment. Many people misunderstand these specialized tools, which creates dangerous situations. Simple training could prevent these problems.

Using CO2 on the wrong fire class

Research shows that about 40% of construction workers don’t use the right type of extinguisher for fires. Carbon dioxide extinguishers work specifically for Class B fires (flammable liquids and gasses) and Class C fires (energized electrical equipment).

Using the wrong extinguisher wastes critical time and creates new dangers:

• Class A fires: CO2 extinguishers don’t work on ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth. The material doesn’t cool enough, so fires often start again.
• Cooking oil/grease fires: Don’t use CO2 extinguishers on chip pan fires because they might spread flames to nearby areas.
• Flammable gasses: Many people think it’s safe, but carbon dioxide extinguishers can be risky with some flammable gas fires.

Holding the horn incorrectly

Frost burns are surprisingly common with carbon dioxide extinguishers. People make two dangerous handling mistakes:

The CO2 that comes out is very cold (-78°C/-109°F) and can cause bad frost burns if it touches skin. Users often grab the discharge horn while using it, which can cause painful injuries. Their palms might even get “cold welded” to the horn, causing skin damage.

CO2 can leak from the threaded joint between the valve and discharge horn, burning the skin between thumb and forefinger. Good training should stress that people must hold only the insulated handle, never the horn.

Ignoring maintenance and inspection needs

CO2 extinguishers need special maintenance unlike other types. These extinguishers don’t have pressure gages, so you must weigh them to check if they’re full.

Monthly checks are essential, along with yearly professional inspections. These extinguishers need hydrostatic testing every five years. After 10 years, they require complete refurbishment, including a new safety pin.

Poor maintenance often means the extinguisher won’t work in emergencies. People also forget to recharge after use, leaving their buildings unsafe if another fire breaks out.

How to Choose and Maintain a CO2 Fire Extinguisher

Choosing the right carbon dioxide fire extinguisher demands a careful look at several crucial factors. Safety comes first for community centers and volunteer organizations that need effective fire protection suited to their environment.

CO2 fire extinguisher details to check before buying

Smart buyers look beyond price tags to ensure proper protection when selecting a carbon dioxide extinguisher. CO2 extinguishers are available in two and five-kilogram containers. Locations with heavy-duty electrical equipment (415+ volts) need at least a five-kilogram unit.

Your purchase checklist should include these crucial elements:

• Certification marks – Pick only extinguishers with kitemarks that meet British standards
• Horn design – Go for models with double-lined, “frost-free” swivel horns that prevent freeze burns
• Clean agent properties – Make sure the discharge is non-conductive and residue-free for electrical equipment safety
• BAFE registration – Your supplier’s engineers should be registered with recognized industry oversight bodies

These extinguishers work best near electrical equipment in offices, schools, laboratories, server rooms, and mechanical spaces.

Importance of hydrostatic testing and servicing

Your CO2 fire extinguisher needs regular maintenance to work properly. Hydrostatic testing every five years checks the structural integrity under pressure. Technicians fill the cylinder with water to spot any leaks or weaknesses.

Staff should check visibility, accessibility, fullness, and condition monthly. CO2 units don’t have pressure gages, so weighing them is the only way to verify contents.

Carbon dioxide extinguishers need mandatory refurbishment after 10 years, including safety pin replacement. Buying a new unit is often more budget-friendly than refurbishment at this stage.

Better alternatives to CO2 fire extinguishers

CO2 extinguishers have their limits, which makes alternatives worth exploring. A dry powder fire extinguisher gives broader protection for mixed fire risk environments, though residue can be an issue.

Water-based alternatives protect better against Class A fires involving wood, paper, and textiles. Wet chemical extinguishers handle cooking oils and fats more effectively.

Spaces where CO2 dissipates quickly or confined areas with asphyxiation risks might need different fire-fighting agents. Different extinguishers target specific fire classes, and the right combination protects better than relying only on carbon dioxide extinguishers.

The proper use of carbon dioxide fire extinguishers is crucial for anyone who oversees safety in workplaces and communities. In this piece, we’ve covered the most important limitations and what it all means when these specialized tools are misused. CO2 extinguishers work only on Class B and Class C fires. This fact could prevent dangerous situations where people use them incorrectly against ordinary combustibles.

CO2 extinguishers excel at handling electrical fires but come with serious risks. The biggest problem is the asphyxiation danger in confined spaces when oxygen gets displaced. On top of that, it can cause painful frost burns due to its extremely cold discharge temperature. These issues combined with quick discharge rates and limited range make proper training essential.

Safety coordinators should make regular maintenance the life-blood of their fire safety protocols. Hydrostatic testing must happen every five years. Weight checks, not pressure gage readings, should become standard practice for organizations using these extinguishers. These extinguishers need strategic placement near electrical equipment, while keeping other types available for different fire classes.

CO2 extinguishers are just one part of a detailed fire safety toolkit. They prove valuable in specific situations but need the right alternatives for different fire risks. Community organizations that understand these specialized extinguishers’ capabilities and limitations create safer environments for everyone they serve.

Here are some FAQs about the carbon dioxide fire extinguisher:

What is carbon dioxide fire extinguisher used on?

A carbon dioxide fire extinguisher is primarily used for Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (electrical) fires, making them ideal for laboratories, server rooms, and mechanical spaces. The CO2 fire extinguisher works by displacing oxygen and cooling the fire, effectively smothering flames without leaving residue. These extinguishers are commonly seen protecting valuable electrical equipment where clean suppression is crucial.

What class is a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher?

The carbon dioxide fire extinguisher class designation includes Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (electrical equipment) fires. While highly effective for these categories, CO2 extinguishers are not suitable for Class A (ordinary combustibles) or Class D (metal) fires. The carbon dioxide extinguisher’s classification makes it perfect for environments with electrical hazards or liquid fuel fires.

Is ABC fire extinguisher Co2?

No, an ABC fire extinguisher is not a CO2 type – it typically uses dry chemical powder rather than carbon dioxide. While a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher are designed for which types of fuels like flammable liquids and electrical fires, ABC extinguishers work on ordinary combustibles, liquids, and electrical fires but leave residue. CO2 models are preferred for clean suppression in sensitive areas.

What is carbon dioxide best used for?

Carbon dioxide is best used for suppressing electrical fires and flammable liquid fires where clean extinguishing is required. The carbon dioxide fire extinguisher used for server rooms, laboratories, and industrial settings prevents damage to sensitive equipment. CO2 extinguishers are particularly valuable where other agents might cause short circuits or leave harmful residues on electronics.

Where not to use a CO2 fire extinguisher?

You should not use a CO2 fire extinguisher in confined spaces without proper ventilation due to oxygen displacement risks. The carbon dioxide extinguisher is also ineffective on Class A fires (wood, paper) and Class D metal fires. Avoid using them in kitchens for grease fires as the high-pressure gas can spread flaming oil.

Is a CO2 extinguisher good for a kitchen?

No, a CO2 fire extinguisher is not ideal for kitchens as it can spread grease fires rather than extinguish them. While the carbon dioxide fire extinguisher class includes flammable liquids, Class K wet chemical extinguishers are specifically designed for commercial kitchens. The high-pressure CO2 discharge may splash burning grease, worsening the hazard.

What are the disadvantages of a CO2 fire extinguisher?

The main disadvantages of carbon dioxide fire extinguishers include their inability to work on Class A or D fires and the risk of cold burns from the discharged gas. CO2 fire extinguisher used for electrical fires also presents asphyxiation hazards in small spaces. They provide no lasting protection against reignition and require larger sizes for comparable effectiveness to dry chemical units.

Why are CO2 fire extinguishers so expensive?

CO2 fire extinguishers are more expensive due to their high-pressure construction requirements and the cost of containing liquid carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide extinguisher’s chrome-plated brass horn and reinforced cylinder add to manufacturing costs. Additionally, they require more frequent hydrostatic testing than other types, increasing long-term maintenance expenses.

Are CO2 fire extinguishers still used?

Yes, carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are still widely used in environments with electrical equipment and flammable liquids. The carbon dioxide fire extinguisher remains the preferred choice for computer server rooms, laboratories, and industrial settings where clean suppression is critical. Modern units continue to be manufactured with improved safety features and discharge mechanisms.