Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

Here’s a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Portable Fire Extinguishers, designed for use in workplaces, commercial buildings, or industrial settings.

1. Purpose:

To provide standardized guidelines for the proper inspection, operation, and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers to ensure readiness in the event of a fire emergency.

2. Scope:

This SOP applies to all types of portable fire extinguishers installed throughout the facility.

3. Responsibilities:

• All Employees: Know the location and basic operation of fire extinguishers.

• Fire Safety Officer / EHS Officer: Conduct inspections, training, and maintenance.

• Facility Manager: Ensure availability and accessibility of extinguishers.

4. Safety Precautions:

• Never use an extinguisher on a fire you are not trained to handle.

• Use appropriate extinguisher type for the fire class.

• Always keep an exit route at your back.

• If the fire is not controlled in 30 seconds, evacuate immediately.

5. Types of Fire Extinguishers:

• Water (APW) – Class A fires (paper, wood, cloth)

• CO₂ – Class B & C (flammable liquids, electrical)

• Dry Chemical (ABC) – Multipurpose

• Foam – Class A & B

• Wet Chemical – Class K (cooking oil fires)

6. Operation Procedure (PASS Technique):

1. Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever.

2. Aim low, pointing the nozzle at the base of the fire.

3. Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

4. Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

7. Inspection Procedure (Monthly):

1. Ensure extinguisher is in designated place, visible, and unobstructed.

2. Check the pressure gauge – needle must be in the green zone.

3. Ensure tamper seal and pin are intact.

4. Check for any signs of damage, corrosion, or leakage.

5. Confirm the label is legible.

6. Verify last inspection date and sign the inspection tag.

8. Maintenance (Annually or as required):

• Perform hydrostatic testing as per manufacturer or regulatory requirements.

• Refill or recharge used/extinguished units.

• Replace damaged or expired units.

• Conduct professional servicing and documentation.

9. Training:

• Conduct fire extinguisher training annually.

• Demonstrate PASS technique.

• Simulate fire scenarios if possible (controlled environment).

10. Emergency Response:

• Activate fire alarm before attempting to use an extinguisher.

• Call emergency services.

• Only use extinguisher if the fire is small, contained, and you’re trained.

• Evacuate if the situation escalates.

11. Documentation:

• Maintain inspection records for each extinguisher.

• Record training sessions with attendance.

• Log servicing and replacement details.

12. References:

• NFPA 10 (Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers)

• OSHA Fire Protection Regulations

• Local Fire Department Guidelines.

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