Where to Keep Lithium Battery Fire Extinguishers?

Have you heard of Lithium battery fires? They pose a significant threat due to their high energy density and potential for thermal runaway compared to regular fires. Unfortunately, it can reignite even after being extinguished, making the situation extremely dangerous. Here comes the importance of having a dedicated Lithium Battery Fire Extinguisher. They aren’t just extinguishers preventing severe damage and ensuring safety, but lifesavers of the whole world.

But Where to keep lithium battery fire extinguishers? Proper placement of these extinguishers is essential for quick response and effective fire control. In this blog, we will discuss the best storage spaces for lithium battery fire extinguishers to maximize safety.

Best Places to Store Lithium Battery Fire Extinguishers

Workplaces & Offices

Workplaces and offices have common areas where multiple electronic devices, powered by lithium-ion batteries and great care are crucial in this location. The best workplace for Lithium battery fire extinguisher placement includes:
 1. Near charging stations for laptops, power banks, and mobile devices.
 2. In server rooms where large storage units with backup batteries are identified.
 3. Near workstations with high-powered electronic tools or battery-operated devices are used.

Factories & Warehouses

Factories and warehouses are the most important places that are capable of producing Lithium battery fires where they are dealing with battery-operated machinery or storage of lithium-ion batteries on a day-to-day basis. Working of Lithium-ion Battery Fire Extinguishers are unimaginably effective for all those problems that involve fire. Hence, they should have fire extinguishers in strategic locations:
 1. Close to storage areas where lithium-ion batteries are kept.
 2. Near assembly lines where battery-powered tools are used frequently.
 3. Alongside standard fire safety equipment, that provides quick access in case of emergencies.

Homes & Residential Areas

Home is an underrated place where lithium batteries are used. As the number of battery-powered devices at home increases, the possibility of a hazard to happen is high. So, Storage of lithium battery fire extinguishers is more than crucial and should keep Lithium Battery Fire Extinguishers within your reach. Key locations to keep the fire extinguisher are:
 1. Near electric scooters and e-bikes, most commonly kept in garages or parking sheds.
 2. In storage rooms, where power tools and spare batteries are stored.
 3. Close to home offices if any, especially if multiple charging devices are used regularly.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations

Electric vehicles are increasing day by day and the use of lithium batteries is undoubtedly high. Having the right fire safety measures in place is important:
 1. In-home garages with EV charging ports, to initiate fast response in case of battery malfunctions.
 2. In public charging stations, where you can see multiple vehicles charging simultaneously that has the risk of overheating.

Airports & Transportation Hubs

Airports and transportation hubs handle battery-powered devices daily, turning them into hotspots for lithium battery fires. More awareness should be delivered where huge quantities of batteries are being constantly used and yes, it is indeed a great task in the  storage of lithium battery fire extinguishers safely. Places to store Lithium Battery Fire Extinguishers include:
 1. Baggage handling areas, where passengers’ electronic devices are transported.
 2. Cargo sections, as lithium-ion batteries are often shipped.
 3. Maintenance zones, where battery-powered equipment and vehicles are in use.

Additional Storage Tips

Storage of lithium battery fire extinguishers should be properly monitored and must focus on the safety rules. There are more places than the ones we discussed and it is equally important to have perfect Lithium battery fire extinguisher placement in every other location where lithium batteries are used and places which are prone to those types of fires. Follow these tips:
 1. Position them in easily accessible locations, avoiding obstructions in between.
 2. Place extinguishers at an appropriate height, allowing for quick and easy use.
 3. Train staff and residents on their usage, and promote prompt and effective fire response.
 4. Regularly check extinguisher conditions, and analyze that they are in proper working order.

Conclusion

The placement of Lithium Battery Fire Extinguishers is just as important as having them. Where to keep lithium battery fire extinguishers? -is an important question in this worldly situation where everything is unpredictable and the blog has answered so efficiently.  Businesses, homeowners, and public institutions must take care of these extinguishers and store them in accessible and strategic locations. Proactive fire safety aims to avert major loss by responding quickly in an emergency. Safetik offers the best Fire and Safety Services in Kerala, including high-quality Lithium Battery Fire Extinguishers. Visit us today. Prioritize safety and be prepared for lithium battery fires!

When is Refilling of Fire Extinguishers Required?

Fire extinguisher products are great tools to prevent fire from affecting your homes, offices, or industries. The first line of defense they give is the prevention of small fires from spreading out and potentially growing into a large fire or blaze.

Having a fire extinguisher is not enough. One needs to maintain refilling of fire extinguishers in time to be sure of their operation. Without proper maintenance, advanced extinguishers may fail you at the most crucial moment.

Now let’s ask: When is refilling necessary?

Understanding fire extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are used to control small fires before they become big and damage lives and property. Fire extinguishers function by interrupting the essential elements of fire (heat, oxygen, or fuel), depending on the extinguishing agent used. There are several types of fire extinguishers, for use in dealing with specific kinds of fire. They are:

 1. Water extinguishers: They are best suited to fires caused by ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, or cloth.

 2. CO2 extinguishers: They are appropriate for electrical fires and fires caused by flammable liquids. They deprive oxygen near the fire and thus smother it.

 3. Foam extinguishers: These extinguishers can be used on fires caused by flammable liquids and solids. They create a surface barrier and prevent fire re-ignition.

 Proper maintenance and regular refills make sure a fire extinguisher will function at emergency times. If you give up on these, you are going to end up helpless in emergency times.

Signs that your fire extinguisher needs refilling

Pressure gauge indicator

The vast majority of extinguishers possess pressure gauges which make it easy to identify when the extinguisher is fully charged. If the green zone is indicated by the pointing of the needle, there is optimal pressure. Recharging fire extinguishers would be essential whenever the needle falls into the red zone.

Visible damage or corrosion

Exterior physical damage may be caused to the extinguisher by any denting on the extinguishing surface or a crack that makes its effectiveness ineffective. Corrosion will affect the weakening of the cylinder causing either leakage or rupture due to internal pressure. Immediately see to all the above for maximum safety.

Expired or used up

Even if the extinguisher has been partially utilized, it must be recharged. A partially discharged extinguisher cannot generate enough pressure nor discharge sufficient extinguishing agents.

Every fire extinguisher has an expiration date. With time, extinguishing agents may deteriorate, and seals or parts wear out, which can render them less effective or completely inoperable. Expiration dates checking and fire extinguisher fill-up are part of what ensures fire safety.

Routine inspections

Technicians qualified should inspect all extinguishers every year to meet the standards of safety. This includes checking the pressure gauge, seals, labels and general condition. The following should be checked during inspection

 1. A safety pin unbroken and undamaged is present.

 2. No indication of the tamper seal being damaged

 3. The nozzle is dust-free and free of obstructions.

 4. Labels and instructions are readable by the naked eye

 5. The place of storage is within the limits and accessible 

How to refill your fire extinguisher?

Extinguishers must be charged after use as well as on the basis of inspection by the technicians because it can lead to a fall in pressure even if unused. You can refill your fire extinguisher through the below-given methods:

DIY Refilling

For some of the smaller, non-pressurized fire extinguishers, refilling yourself might be possible by using a refill kit from the manufacturer. The basic process is:

 1. Release residual pressure.

 2. Fill with the necessary extinguishing agent

 3. Discharge unit by utilizing the correct air compressor or CO2 cartridge.

However, in most cases, people do not like to do this because DIY filling of a fire extinguisher requires technical precision for safety and effectiveness. Faults in recharging fire extinguishers can make them unusable at a critical moment in an emergency.

Regulations & certification

Generally, most countries have local fire safety regulations that require servicing and refilling to be carried out by licensed professionals to ensure that such work is done according to safety standards. This reduces liability risks.

 The fire extinguisher is the most crucial equipment that can help in saving lives and properties in a fire emergency. As such, this device must be checked often to know whether the fire extinguisher requires refilling so it will be prepared for use at the time it is needed. Proper refilling of fire extinguishers can keep them effective.

Safetik is the best provider of fire and safety services in Kerala. Their products ensure fire safety across industries. Contact us to stay safe and make sure your fire extinguishers are always in working condition!

The Importance of Fire NOC for Building

Fire NOC is a document issued by the local fire safety authority after inspecting a building. It certifies that the building meets all necessary fire safety regulations and follows all prescribed fire safety standards and regulations.

The fire NOC verifies that a building is equipped with all fire safety products including fire extinguishers, alarms, sprinklers, smoke detectors, etc. It is mandatory for every type of building such as schools, hospitals, theaters, malls, etc.

Obtaining a fire NOC makes sure that you follow all regulatory compliance and is often required for getting approval for various types of buildings.

What is a fire NOC?

As mentioned earlier, a fire NOC for building is a legal document issued by the fire department to endorse that the building has met all the necessary safety standards. It ensures the safety of occupants by verifying the implementation of fire prevention measures in the building.

Submitting an application for a fire NOC along with the required documents is crucial for obtaining one. Building plans and layouts, construction details, ownership and authorization documents, fire safety system details, compliance certificates, application forms, and site photographs are required for receiving a fire NOC.

Importance of a fire NOC for buildings

Safety assurance

A fire NOC for a building guarantees that it complies with the fire safety regulations set by the local fire department. You have to set up fire safety systems such as extinguishers, alarms, and sprinklers along with emergency exits for acquiring a fire NOC.

Also, the fire NOC plays an important role in preventing fire hazards and ensuring occupant safety. The inspection conducted by the fire department to issue NOC helps you identify and eliminate risk, prepare for emergencies, and reduce casualties and property damage.

Regulatory compliance

Complying with local fire safety regulations is crucial to ensuring the safety of occupants. This reduces fire risks and prepares you for emergency situations by equipping yourself with fire prevention and control systems. These safety measures help to build the trust of employees and customers.

Legal consequences of operating without a fire NOC include fines and penalties, operational risks, legal actions, reputational damage and even the immediate shutdown of operations. More than a regulatory requirement, a fire NOC is a step towards ensuring a safe and legally compliant environment.

Insurance and financial implications

A fire NOC is mandatory to receive insurance claims smoothly without any delay if any fire incident takes place. Insurance companies require a fire NOC to process the claim. Otherwise there are high chances of the insurance claim getting rejected. The fire NOC shows that the owner has taken necessary safety measures to reduce liability and thereby claim insurance. Buildings with a fire NOC are considered prone to fire incidents, leading to reduced insurance premiums.

Fire NOC has several financial benefits including reduced damage costs, avoidance of fines, etc. Effective fire prevention systems minimize property damage during fire accidents and compliance with safety norms eliminates fines for not following safety measures. Regular maintenance of fire safety systems, as demanded by the Fire NOC, prevents costly repairs or replacements.

Building occupancy approval

A fire NOC is mandatory for obtaining occupancy and operational permits for any building. It ensures that the building complies with fire safety standards, keeping people and assets safe. Fire NOC assures that the building is equipped with fire prevention, detection, and control systems. It also serves as proof that the building adheres to fire safety laws. Fire NOC is issued only to buildings that have emergency exits or fire escape routes. Many businesses get approval only if they possess a fire NOC certificate.  

 

Applications for fire NOC are essential for all types of buildings including residential, public, commercial, institutional, etc. It is to testify that a building complies with the safety regulations. Obtaining a fire NOC for buildings has many benefits such as safety assurance, regulatory compliance, insurance and financial implications, and building occupancy approval. Overall, a fire NOC ensures safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.  

Safetik is the leading company that offers fire and safety services in Kerala. They deliver a range of services including fire hydrants, gas suppression, sprinkler systems, fire detection and alarm systems, fire extinguisher systems, etc. Apply for a fire NOC irrespective of the type of building to ensure safety and compliance. Contact us now for the expert service we offer and protect your building and people from fire incidents.

Types Of Fire NOC

A fire NOC (No Objection Certificate), also known as a Fire Safety Certificate is a document issued by the local fire department or the regulatory authority. It stands as a testament that a building or facility has met all the fire safety standards and regulations set forth by authorities.

Before issuing the certificate, the fire department inspects the area to make sure that it complies with specific fire safety criteria. These criteria include the presence of fire safety products among other necessary safety measures.

 Why are fire NOCs important?

Fire NOCs are important because they ensure the safety of the people in a building at the time of a fire. The NOC certifies that the building has complied with the necessary fire resistant features such as fire alarms, fire extinguishers, emergency evacuation plans etc. Fire NOCs are critical not only for the safety of occupants but also for obtaining approvals for construction, occupancy, and business operations.

Fire NOCs based on building and usage

Each type of building requires different types of fire NOC. Let’s discuss them.

Residential fire NOC

Residential buildings such as apartments require a fire NOC to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. A fire NOC is required during the construction phase or before occupancy to ensure that the building is safe.

Fire exits and staircases, smoke detectors and alarms, firefighting equipment, emergency lighting etc consist of the safety standards required for residential buildings.

Commercial fire NOC

Fire NOC for commercial buildings such as offices and malls is to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations and to create a safe environment for employees and visitors. This ensures that the building is equipped with fire detection and prevention systems to handle emergency situations effectively.

Fire detection and alarm systems, sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, emergency exits, evacuation plans etc are the fire safety measures required for commercial properties.

Industrial fire NOC

Industrial facilities have specific fire safety requirements due to the presence of high-risk elements such as flammable materials and hazardous chemicals. The chance of fire-related accidents is very high.

Flammable substances, overloaded circuits, chemical hazards, heat generating equipment, limited emergency exists etc are the reasons for common fire hazards in industrial setups. NOCs can address these hazards by ensuring proper storage facilities, regular maintenance of electrical systems, heat-resistant materials etc.

Institutional Fire NOC

Institutions such as schools and colleges, hospitals and healthcare centres require an institutional fire NOC before starting work. These institutions must ensure the safety of students, teachers, doctors, and patients by providing a fire safety environment with proper evacuation plans and fire-resistant construction.

Additional safety considerations in these institutional settings include fire resistant doors and walls, conducting regular fire drills, automatic alarms, sprinkle systems and backup power systems.

Fire NOCs based on facility requirements

Based on facility requirements, fire NOC types are two – temporary and permanent.

Temporary fire NOC

A temporary fire NOC is required for short term programmes such as exhibitions, public events, construction sites etc, where fire safety is a concern. There will be large crowds and therefore it is essential to ensure their safety through fire management measures.

In order to obtain a temporary fire NOC, you have to submit an application to the local fire department along with the relevant documents. The fire department officials inspect the site and if the site adheres to the safety standards, then the NOC is issued after you pay the required fee.   

Permanent fire NOC

A permanent fire NOC is issued for long-term establishments such as residential complexes, commercial and institutional buildings, and industrial facilities. It certifies that a building complies with safety standards. Permanent NOCs are issued for the long-term to ensure legal compliance and occupant safety.

Even though a permanent NOC is issued for long-term use, periodic renewals are required to maintain it. After the inspection of the fire department, you have to submit the updated documents and an application for renewal. A renewed certificate will be issued after verification.

Fire NOC categories based on fire hazard level

The degree of fire NOC varies based on fire hazard level and they can be categorized into three.

Low-risk fire NOC

A low risk fire NOC applies to buildings that have less chance of fire hazards. It is due to the types of operations taking place and the materials used. Small residential buildings, offices, educational institutions, warehouses for non-flammable goods and health clinics are the buildings and facilities that fall under low-risk.

Requirements for a low-risk NOC include basic fire safety equipment, building with features such as minimum two fire escapes, ventilation facilities, water supply, proper evacuation plan etc. 

Moderate-risk fire NOC

A moderate-risk fire NOC is required for industries and commercial spaces with moderate fire hazards. It is due to high occupancy levels and the complexity of operations used. Medium-sized manufacturing companies, commercial buildings such as malls, offices, restaurants, health and educational institutions with capacity above the low-risk category fall under moderate-risk.

Fire safety equipment, buildings with fire resistant walls, ceilings and multiple fire exits, safe storage practices for flammable materials etc are required for a moderate-risk fire NOC.

High-risk fire NOC

A high-risk fire NOC is mandatory for industries and facilities with substantial fire hazards. It is due to the high complexity of operations, materials handled, or occupancy density. Industries and setups with high fire hazards include chemical and petrochemical plants, heavy manufacturing industries and large commercial and residential complexes.

Specific safety protocols include fire protection systems, fire detection and alarm systems, emergency exit and evacuation plans, ventilation and smoke control. Inspection and approval processes include preliminary risk assessment, fire department review and on-site inspection before the NOC is issued.

 

NOCs are critical documents issued by fire departments to certify that a building or facility complies with fire safety standards. There are different types of fire NOC and they vary based on building, facility requirements and fire hazard level. NOC’s are important to ensure the safety of lives and property and for legal compliance. Compliance with fire safety standards demonstrates a commitment to safety and responsibility, which builds trust among people. Safetik provides the best fire and safety services in Kerala, ensuring safety and security across various sectors.

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