dry powder extinguisher on an escape route

[stewbow]

Sorry if this has been discused elsewhere, but the LACORS guidance doc talks about "simple multi purpose extinguishers on communal areas.
Multi purpose extinguishers are defined as extinguishers that cover Class A, B and C Fires, so that would be a 1kg Dry Power,,, Yes
So my query is, is it good practice to install dry powder extinguisher on an escape routes.

I always thought not

[AnthonyB]

You will find this discussed in multiple threads.

Powder on escape routes or in areas with vulnerable people is frowned upon due to the discharge of powder filling up the area and causing disorientation, panic etc and you can get more powder 'soot' filling up the area than the actual fire it was being used on.

Look on Youtube - better than the training videos (discharging outside)are the videos of pranks played on people by discharging extinguishers at them - whilst their actions are deplorable they have the one advantage of showing the effects of a powder discharge inside a building of normal ceiling height.

But, in the LACORS guide we are talking about a non workplace situation with a small number of untrained persons familiar with their premises. To adequately cover the types of risks using the normal workplace route could require two types of large extinguisher, both needing training and having a risk if used on the wrong fire.

An ABC Powder extinguisher is small, simple and weight for weight powerful and is safe on all common types of fire so no accidents possible.

Domestic living accommodation has had Powder recommended for decades and a range of products developed for this situation - the guide is drawing from that & the location guidance for domestic extinguishers (kitchen, garage, halls/landings).

It's more cost effective (which is why they are advised for small workplaces too). After all if you get a disposable ABC powder extinguisher it's a low initial purchase cost, no servicing required (limited life - user checks only) and replace every 5 years.