A complete guide to the different types of fire extinguisher used in commercial premises in Ireland — foam, CO2, water, wet chemical and dry powder. Which type is right for your business?
In Ireland, there are six main types of fire extinguisher used in commercial premises — each designed for a specific class of fire. Choosing the wrong type of extinguisher can be ineffective or even dangerous. This guide explains each type, the class of fire it is designed for and where it should be used.
Water extinguishers are the most common type. They work by cooling the burning material below its ignition temperature.
Foam extinguishers work on both Class A and Class B fires — making them the most versatile general purpose extinguisher for commercial premises.
CO2 extinguishers are essential for offices, server rooms and any premises with significant electrical equipment. They leave no residue and do not damage electrical equipment.
Dry powder extinguishers are multi-purpose and effective on Class A, B and C fires. They are particularly suitable for outdoor use and in areas with flammable gases.
Wet chemical extinguishers are specifically designed for Class F fires — cooking oils and fats. They are a legal requirement in commercial kitchens in Ireland.
Water mist extinguishers are a modern multi-purpose option suitable for most fire classes including electrical fires. Environmentally friendly — no chemicals.
RFC Fire & Security Systems supply, install and service all types of fire extinguisher for commercial premises across Dublin and Leinster. Our engineers assess your premises and recommend the correct type and quantity required. Free site survey — no obligation.
Fire extinguishers in Ireland are classified by the type of fire they are designed to extinguish. Understanding fire classes is essential for selecting the correct extinguisher for your premises.
| Class | Type of Fire | Examples | Suitable Extinguisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class A | Ordinary combustibles | Wood, paper, textiles, cardboard | Water, Foam, Dry Powder, Water Mist |
| Class B | Flammable liquids | Petrol, paint, solvents, alcohol | Foam, CO2, Dry Powder |
| Class C | Flammable gases | Natural gas, LPG, propane | Dry Powder |
| Class D | Flammable metals | Magnesium, lithium, aluminium | Specialist Dry Powder only |
| Electrical | Electrical equipment | Computers, servers, wiring | CO2, Water Mist, Dry Powder |
| Class F | Cooking oils & fats | Deep fat fryers, cooking oils | Wet Chemical only |
| Extinguisher Type | Class A | Class B | Class C | Electrical | Class F |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🔴 Water | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| 🟠 Foam | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| ⚫ CO2 | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| 🔵 Dry Powder | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| 🟡 Wet Chemical | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| ⚪ Water Mist | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
The types and quantities of fire extinguisher required for your commercial premises depend on several factors:
RFC's engineers carry out a full assessment of your premises and recommend the correct type and quantity of extinguishers — ensuring you are fully compliant with Irish Standard IS 291 and the Fire Services Act.
In Ireland, fire extinguishers are colour coded to identify the type of extinguishing agent. The body of the extinguisher is red — with a coloured band or panel indicating the type.
Read our complete guide to fire extinguisher colour codes →
RFC supply, install and service all types of fire extinguisher for commercial premises across Dublin and Leinster. Free site survey — no obligation.
Supply · Installation · Servicing · Free site survey · Commercial premises only
