Fire classes are a classification of fires based on the type of combustible materials according to the European standard DIN EN 2. They help to choose the correct extinguishing agent.
Burning materials are classified here into six fire classes:
Flammable materials are categorised into fire classes A, B, C, D and F in accordance with the European Union's EN 2 standard. The EN 2 standard replaced the national standards, such as DIN standards ÖNORM (F 1003) or (DIN 14406).
The different fire classes are so important because each fire must or can be extinguished differently. There are suitable extinguishing agents for each fire class. However, there are also unsuitable extinguishing agents, for example a grease fire must never be extinguished with water. This would cause the fire to spread suddenly like a wall of fire due to the condensation of the small water droplets. This would put all bystanders in considerable danger. There would also be a risk that the fire would spread rapidly due to the reaction or the failed attempt to extinguish it with water.
All solids fall into the A fire class. This includes, for example, wood, hay, paper, textiles, plastics and many more. Liquids or substances that become liquid are classified as Class B. These include candle wax, gasoline, diesel, paints, ethanol and tar, and other substances. Gases are classified as Class D.
The gases include methane, ethane, propane, butane, hydrogen and acetylene. As already described above, they were already abolished in 1978 and previously applied to fires in electrical low-voltage systems up to 1000 volts.
Nowadays, all conventional fire extinguishers can be used for such fires if the required minimum distance can be maintained. Therefore, this class is no longer specifically required.
Fats and oils, specifically cooking oils and cooking fats, fall under the F class of fire hazards. Frying pans are one of the most common fire hazards in the home. But cooking oils and fats in a frying pan and in deep-fat fryers are also responsible for kitchen fires. Strictly speaking, fats are liquid or liquid-forming substances and could also be classified as Class B. However, due to the enormous risk they pose, they have been categorized into their own fire class F.
By the way: The Paffen Security service also provides Fire guards and fire posts for work involving a fire hazard. If you also need to secure your buildings and business premises, we are also happy to provide a comprehensive Object protection or Site security ready for you.
Paffen Sicherheitsdienst offers you all security services from a single source.
We would be happy to create a customised security concept for you!
