Class B fire involve flammable liquids, such as gasoline, diesel, alcohol, oil, paint, and other solvents. These fires are classified based on the type of fuel burning and require different handling than other fires.
Understanding the characteristics, causes, and how to deal with class B fires is very important to prevent the risk of major losses, whether in household, industrial, or office environments.
In this article, we will explain further about what a class B fire is, its characteristics, common causes, and the most appropriate solutions to deal with it.
What is a Class B Fire?
Class B fires are caused by the combustion of flammable liquids or gaseous substances that can turn into liquids under pressure. Common examples of Class B fire-causing materials include gasoline, diesel, kerosene, alcohol, solvents, and paint.
This type of fire should not be handled carelessly, as using the wrong extinguishing method can actually worsen the situation. For example, using water on a Class B fire is highly discouraged because it can spread the burning liquid and expand the fire area.
Characteristics of Class B Fires
The main characteristics of class B fires are:
- Involving flammable liquids such as fuel oil and chemical solvents.
- Spreads quickly, especially if the flammable liquid is on a flat surface or in large quantities.
- It is difficult to extinguish with water, because water cannot break the chain of chemical reactions that occur and can even cause the fuel to spread more widely.
- Produces toxic fumes, because burning chemicals can produce dangerous gases that threaten safety.
Therefore, extinguishing this type of fire must be done with an extinguisher that is appropriate for the fuel medium being burned.
Causes of Class B Fires
There are several common causes of class B fires, including:
- Spilled fuel such as gasoline or diesel that is exposed to heat sources or sparks.
- Storage of liquid chemicals that does not meet standards, such as not being stored in airtight containers or in areas that are not well ventilated.
- Fuel or solvent leaks in industrial areas or workshops.
- Igniting a fire source near flammable materials, for example smoking near an oil drum or using a heating device near paint.
Awareness of the potential dangers of flammable liquids is very important in prevention efforts.
Class B Fire Fighting
Class B fire fighting must be carried out using appear (Light Fire Extinguisher) appropriate. Here are some types of APAR recommended for this type of fire:
1. APAR Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
CO2 fire extinguishers are effective for extinguishing Class B fires because carbon dioxide works by removing oxygen from the surrounding area. Without oxygen, the combustion process stops. These fire extinguishers also leave no residue, making them suitable for sensitive areas such as laboratory or server room.
2. APAR Busa (Hunger)
Foam fire extinguishers work by forming a protective layer that covers the surface of the burning liquid, breaking contact between the fuel and air. This is particularly effective for extinguishing fires caused by fuel spills.
3. Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher
Dry powder fire extinguishers extinguish fires by disrupting the chemical reaction during combustion. They also have a broad extinguishing coverage and can be used on class A, B, and C fires.
Never use a water extinguisher for a class B fire, as water can cause the fuel to spread and worsen the fire.
If the fire cannot be controlled immediately, evacuate immediately and call a professional fire brigade.
Understanding that a class B fire is a type of fire involving flammable liquids is very important in a fire protection system.
Understanding the characteristics and causes allows for faster and more appropriate preventative and response measures. One of the most effective solutions is using a CO2, foam, or dry chemical fire extinguisher.
For your needs of a reliable fire protection system that meets safety standards, Adiwarna is here as a fire protection contractor ready to help you with the best solutions, from installation to maintenance of fire extinguishing systems.
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