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What should floor markings for fire extinguishers look like?

Have you ever noticed that fire extinguishers are always accompanied by a specific marking on the floor or wall? These markings, usually combining the colors red and yellow, are designed to highlight the extinguisher and draw attention, making it easier to locate. emergency situations.

However, there is a common debate between occupational safety technicians and architects regarding the appearance of these markings. While architects often prioritize aesthetics and color harmony within the environment, opting to customize the fire extinguisher to match the decor, safety technicians argue that this can compromise the effectiveness of the signage. Although there is no explicit prohibition, disregarding standard colors can cause the fire extinguisher to go unnoticed at critical moments, representing a significant risk. panic situations.

Location of Fire Extinguishers

The location of fire extinguishers is crucial to ensuring their effectiveness in an emergency. To optimize operation and guarantee safety, it is important to follow these guidelines. guidelines:

  • Visibility: Fire extinguishers should be placed in easily visible locations.
  • Access: They should be accessible, without obstructions that could hinder their use.
  • Security: The location should minimize the risk of obstruction by fire.
  • Distance: There should be a maximum distance of 10 to 15 meters between fire extinguishers.
  • Proximity to the entrance: There should be no fire extinguisher more than 5 meters from the entrance door.
  • Amount: The number of fire extinguishers should be appropriate to the size of the area, the fire risk, and the occupancy class.
escape route signs

Fire Extinguisher Signage

Fire extinguisher signage must follow specific criteria to ensure they are easily located and identified:

  • Identification of the Extinguishing Agent: It is essential that the type of extinguishing agent (water, chemical powder, CO2, etc.) is clearly identified.
  • Marking: A circle or arrow in red and yellow can be used to mark the location of the fire extinguisher.
  • Signage Height: The signage should be 1.80 meters from the finished floor, on the top of the equipment.
  • Ground marking: There must be a demarcated area of one square meter in red, with yellow stripes of 15 cm, according to ABNT NBR 12.693/1993.

Floor markings

To minimize For visual impact, floor markings can opt for an outer yellow outline and an inner red area, in the shape of a square. Alternatively, appropriate supports can be used, with a recommended height of 10 to 20 cm from the floor.

Fire extinguishers can also be installed in wall cabinets, provided the signage allows for clear visibility. Regardless of the extinguisher model or its location, the signage must consider the type of people who frequent the area. The less familiar the public is with the location, the clearer and more visible the signage should be.

It is essential that the area around the fire extinguisher is not obstructed, ensuring that everyone can access it. equipment Without difficulty. Safety should always be the top priority in any situation.