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potts2030  
#1 Posted : 26 June 2012 11:22:14(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
potts2030

Our fire extinguisher provider has suggested that we need Co2 fire extinguishers in our freezer which operates at -25, chamber is fitted with sprinklers with heat detectors. My concern is that these may be unnecessary or may not work due to the cold, I cannot recall seeing extinguishers in other freezers that i have been in. any views from those with more knowledge please
David Bannister  
#2 Posted : 26 June 2012 11:36:20(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
David Bannister

Ask yourself: what is the likelihood of fire occuring within the freezer? If it does, how quickly will the available oxygen be consumed? How likely is fire to occur when anybody is actually in the freezer? How likely is it will they need the extingusher to aid their escape? (assume any smoke damage will result in total loss of the contents). Then as yourself: is my extinguisher provider competent to advise or merely looking to make additional sales?
MEden380  
#3 Posted : 26 June 2012 11:53:13(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
MEden380

Potts With out seeing your Fire Risk Assessment of the area I Have to agree with David on this one and suggest you look for a new fire extinguisher contractor
potts2030  
#4 Posted : 26 June 2012 12:04:55(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
potts2030

Thanks for the answers, More sales was my thought This is a new build so Fire risk assessment is on its way, i think a fire in a freezer would be unlikely, Think i will get some more advice from elsewhere
messyshaw  
#5 Posted : 26 June 2012 14:37:33(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
messyshaw

Is it not possible to have suitable extinguishers located just outside the doors to the freezer area? I am always careful when an extinguisher supply company come out with these sort of recommendations - or actually complete the entire FRA as I have seen a few dubious findings from those reports. My employers have instigated system of separation the extinguisher servicing company and the company who supply the extinguishers. It's early days, but with about three thousand extinguishers across the estate, a significant saving is expected
JJ Prendergast  
#6 Posted : 26 June 2012 15:15:11(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
JJ Prendergast

If the freezer operates at -25deg C - I assume the sprinkler system is dry, until activated, within the freezer itself? Frozen up sprinkler pipes are much use. Or a suitable anti freeze is used. I assume that its is food products being stored in the freezer? It doesn't necessarily follow that just because its a freezer, that a fire is unlikely. Although, obviously ice will be liquified to water if the frozed products contain ice and will help to suppress a fire. Things still burn when cold! This seems like a sales ploy to flog more fire extinguishers Although, if a fire has broken out, it would be a secondary problem - letting off a Co2 bottle in possible the confined volume of a freezer could lead to an asphyiating atmosphere.
JJ Prendergast  
#7 Posted : 26 June 2012 15:16:13(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
JJ Prendergast

'aren't much use' Edit function please!!
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