Compliance with IS 15683
All portable fire extinguishers used in India must comply with IS 15683, which governs manufacturing quality, rating, performance, refilling, and periodic testing requirements. The standard ensures that extinguishers are suitable for different fire classes and remain reliable throughout their service life. Compliance also includes following BIS marking, colour coding, refilling guidelines, hydrostatic pressure testing, and maintenance intervals to guarantee operational readiness during emergencies.
Step-by-Step Selection & Maintenance Guide for Portable Fire Extinguishers
1. Survey Hazards & Identify Fire Classes
The first step is to evaluate the building’s fire risks by determining the type of combustible materials present.
This involves identifying the relevant fire classes:
- Class A: Ordinary combustibles (paper, wood, cloth)
- Class B: Flammable liquids (diesel, petrol, oils)
- Class C: Flammable gases (LPG, CNG)
- Class D: Metals (magnesium, aluminium)
- Class E: Electrical fires
Based on this assessment, select the appropriate extinguisher type—ABC dry powder, CO₂, foam, water, clean agent or specialty extinguishers. Choosing the right type ensures effective fire control during the critical first minutes of an incident.
2. Sizing & Placement
Next, determine the extinguisher capacity and quantity as per risk severity and area size.
Key guidelines include:
- Select 2kg, 4kg, 6kg, or 9kg units depending on hazard level.
- Place extinguishers at visible and easily reachable locations.
- Ensure travel distance to reach an extinguisher meets code norms.
- Distribute units across corridors, entrances, MEP rooms and high-risk zones.
Correct placement enables quick first response and prevents escalation.
3. Mounting & Signage
Once selected, extinguishers must be mounted using approved wall brackets or stands:
- Mount units at standard heights: typically 1–1.5 meters from floor level.
- Ensure unobstructed access at all times.
- Provide clear fire extinguisher signage, including operating instructions and fire class icons.
Proper visibility and accessibility are vital during panic situations.
4. Service & Test Schedule
Portable extinguishers require routine maintenance to remain ready for use. As per IS 15683, maintenance includes:
- Monthly visual inspections to check pressure, seals, physical condition and accessibility.
- Annual servicing by certified technicians, including refilling for applicable types.
- Hydrostatic pressure testing at prescribed intervals to verify cylinder integrity.
- Replacement cycles based on expiry, corrosion, leakage or failed tests.
Following a strict schedule ensures long-term reliability and compliance with BIS guidelines.
5. Training & User Awareness
Even the best extinguishers are ineffective without trained users. Conduct short on-site training sessions covering:
- PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep)
- Identifying extinguisher types and fire classes
- Safety precautions during operation
- Basic checks to perform during monthly inspections
Training empowers staff to act quickly during the early stages of a fire, reducing damage and risk.