Unsure of where to mount your fire extinguisher? No stress! This article tells everything you need to know about fire extinguisher height requirements.
You’re getting ready to install your portable fire extinguisher when you realize you don’t actually know the specific mounting height. What is the correct height to hang a fire extinguisher? The answer is found in NFPA 10, the National Fire Protection Association’s standard for portable fire extinguishers. In this article we will detail NFPA 10’s fire extinguisher height requirements and explain why they are an essential part of fire safety and compliance.
Why Fire Extinguisher Height Requirements Matter
Before we get into the fire extinguisher height requirements outlined in NFPA 10, let’s talk about why their installation height matters in the first place.
Pretty much everyone understands that fire extinguishers can help with putting out small fires, but what you might not know is how effective they can be. According to EnGauge Inc. nearly 2 million fires are handled entirely by a fire extinguisher in the United States every year.
Fire extinguishers can often be used much more quickly than the fire department can arrive, making them an ideal solution for small fires or for trying to tame a fire until firefighters can arrive at the scene. However, fire extinguishers can only be put to use if they can first be reached. By placing fire extinguishers at an appropriate height, they can then serve their intended purpose.
Fire Extinguisher Height Requirements
Both NFPA 10 6.1.3.8 and OSHA 1910.157 provide guidance for mounting fire extinguishers to the wall or in cabinets so that they can be clearly visible and easily accessible in an emergency. Though these organizations are separate, they share the same height requirements for fire extinguishers.
Height Requirements for Wall Mounted Extinguishers:
- Height from the Ground: The bottom of all fire extinguishers (with the exception of wheeled extinguishers) must be at least 4 inches above the ground. This helps to ensure that they are high enough from the floor to prevent them from being moved unnecessarily or damaged.
- Extinguishers Under 40 lbs: Portable fire extinguishers that weigh 40 pounds or less must be installed so that the tallest part of the extinguisher is no more than 5 feet (60 inches) above the floor. Note: The total weight should include the mountain bracket.
- Extinguishers Over 40 lbs: Portable fire extinguishers that weigh more than 40 pounds must be installed with the tallest part reaching no higher than 3.5 feet (42 inches) above the floor.
- Mounting to the Wall: Fire extinguishers should be securely mounted to the wall with the help of approved brackets or cabinets unless they have wheels. Extinguishers that are wheeled can remain on the ground, so long as they are visible and out of the way.
It is important to note that the American Disabilities Act (ADA) also has requirements for fire extinguisher heights. However, not all fire extinguishers need to be compliant with the ADA. Generally, elements that are not fixed or built in are not held to ADA standards. If you are unsure about your fire extinguisher, you can learn more by reading this article.
General ADA Requirements
- The highest operable part of the extinguisher should be no more than 48 in above the floor
- The bottom or lowest part of the extinguisher should be at least 15 in above the floor.
Following these fire extinguisher height requirements ensures that the safety equipment is reasonably accessible to all people during emergencies.
Benefits of Following Height Requirements
Knowing and correctly following current safety standards isn’t always easy. However, making the effort to comply with standards can produce some effort-worthy results. Here are some of the very real advantages you can experience by following the established height requirements for fire extinguishers.
- Ensures Quick & Easy Access
During emergencies, every second counts. Positioning your fire extinguishers in accordance with established installation height requirements makes sure they can easily be accessed when needed. This can help reduce damage or injury in a high-stress fire situation. - Contributes to OSHA and NFPA Compliance
Non-compliance with OSHA and NFPA standards, including fire extinguisher height requirements can result in fines, penalties, or liability issues in the event of a fire-related incident. By following the requirements, you are increasing safety at your workplace but also protecting the business from legal and financial risks. - Makes Them Visible
Mounting extinguishers at the correct height keeps them clearly visible for all people, including those with disabilities. This is a benefit, because it reduces the time and effort needed to locate an extinguisher during a crisis. - Reduces Risk of Damage
When fire extinguishers are placed too low to the ground, they become more likely to get damaged or misplaced. The 4-inch minimum height requirement prevents extinguishers from resting directly on the floor, which helps to reduce exposure to moisture, corrosion, or accidental contact and ultimately prolongs the lifespan of the equipment. - Signals The Importance of Safety
Proper fire extinguisher installation is a way to demonstrate to your team that safety is a priority. This can help with developing a culture of safety in which all employees are active participants in trying to reduce safety risks and promote emergency preparedness.
Of course, there are many other benefits to following safety standards. These are simply the ones that we feel you will find most relevant and motivating.
Best Practices for Fire Extinguisher Installation
Now that you know the height requirements for fire extinguishers and understand their significance, let’s talk about how to approach installation. Here are some best practices:
- Review associated safety standards (NFPA 10 and OSHA 1910.157) to make sure you understand current requirements.
- If you still have questions, consult fire safety professionals.
- Measure before and after mounting the extinguisher to be sure that it falls within the guidelines.
- Use signs or posters to indicate the extinguisher location and make it more visible.
- After installation, regularly inspect the placement to ensure your fire extinguishers are mounted correctly and remain unobstructed.
- Train employees on the importance of proper extinguisher height and how to quickly access and use them.
Using Software to Manage Fire Extinguishers
Managing fire extinguishers can be a tall task, particularly if your organization has them in high volume. However, fire extinguisher management software is a tool that can really make a difference. Our software solution, InspectNTrack is specifically designed to help with running a fire safety program, inspecting fire equipment, and logging data.
Not only can it help with performing inspections on fire extinguishers, but it can also track your inventory, their locations, and help with scheduling upcoming maintenance. It truly can revolutionize the way you approach fire safety. Want to learn more? Schedule a demo and talk with one of our specialists.
Conclusion
Proper fire extinguisher height is one of those factors that is easy to overlook, despite its profound impact on fire safety. By following NFPA, OSHA, and ADA guidelines, you can ensure that your fire extinguishers are accessible, visible, and free of damage when they are needed. Making the effort to verify that your fire extinguishers are hung at the correct height can do a lot to increase safety in your workplace and protect your best interests. Additionally, fire extinguisher software can change the game for tracking and maintaining your fire extinguishers. Invest in your company’s safety today by paying attention to fire extinguisher height requirements and following them.
