Placement standards appear (Light Fire Extinguisher) is a crucial aspect of a fire extinguisher placement standards system that is often overlooked.
Proper placement not only complies with applicable regulations, but also plays a direct role in saving lives and minimizing losses in the event of a fire.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of placing APAR according to standards, the national regulations that govern it, as well as international references that serve as additional references.
The Importance of Placing Fire Extinguishers According to Standards
Placing a fire extinguisher carelessly can have fatal consequences. A fire extinguisher placed according to fire extinguisher placement standards will:
- Easy to find and access in an emergency. This allows for quick extinguishing action before the fire spreads further.
- Effective in reaching fire-prone areas, because each type of APAR has a limited range and capacity.
- Meet legal requirements and insurance standards. Improper placement can result in insurance claims being denied or result in legal penalties for the building owner.
Therefore, understanding and implementing these standards is an important preventive step to ensure safety in the work environment and public areas.
Regulations and Standards Governing the Placement of Fire Extinguishers
Indonesian National Standard (SNI) on the Placement of Fire Extinguishers
SNI serves as the primary reference for determining technical specifications and standards for the placement of fire extinguishers in Indonesia. Some key points regulated include:
- The type of APAR (powder, foam, CO2) must be adjusted to the potential fire risk at a particular location.
- Placement must take into account the distance between tools, ease of access, and the availability of clear and visible signs.
- Each APAR must go through a testing and feasibility assessment process to ensure it can function optimally when needed.
This standard emphasizes that APARs are not only mandatory to be present, but must also be strategically installed and technically verified.
Additional Regulations from the Ministry of Manpower and Fire Services
The Indonesian government has also issued a number of additional regulations, including:
- Minister of Manpower and Transmigration Regulation No. 4/MEN/1980 states that every APAR must be easily accessible, visible, and have a red triangle-shaped installation sign.
- The maximum distance between APARs is 15 meters, unless otherwise specified by an OHS expert.
- The ideal height for installing signs is 125 cm from the floor, and the minimum distance from the tube to the floor is 15 cm.
- Outdoor fire extinguishers must be protected with a special box to prevent damage due to fire weather extreme.
- The color of the APAR must be bright red so that it is easily recognized, in accordance with national standard provisions.
In addition, the Decree of the Minister of Manpower No. 186 of 1999 also regulates the formation of internal fire prevention units, officer training, and supervision of compliance with standards in the workplace.
International References: NFPA and OSHA
In addition to national regulations, many industry players also refer to international standards to strengthen their fire protection systems. Two primary references are:
- NFPA 10(National Fire Protection Association): This standard regulates the placement of fire extinguishers in easily accessible and clearly visible locations, and a maximum installation height of 1.51 meters from the floor for fire extinguishers weighing less than 18.14 kg. The distance between fire extinguishers is determined based on the area size and the level of fire risk.
- OSHA(Occupational Safety and Health Administration): This agency establishes the obligation to place APAR in the workplace according to global safety standards, including regular inspections and training for workers on the use of the equipment.
Both are important references in developing a fire protection system that is in line with international practices.
Understanding and implementing APAR placement standards is a form of responsibility for the safety of the work environment and the public.
Whether referring to SNI, Ministry of Manpower regulations, or international standards such as NFPA and OSHA, all aim to ensure that portable fire extinguishers can truly be used effectively when needed.
If you want to ensure that the fire protection system in your building or business premises meets standards, working with a trusted contractor is highly recommended. Adiwarna, a specialist fire protection contractor, is ready to assist with the planning, installation, and maintenance of fire extinguishers (APAR) in accordance with applicable regulations.
By following the proper standards, you not only meet your legal obligations, but also protect assets and lives from the risk of fire.
