Hand held fire extinguishers with a rating not less than which rating shall be used?

Hand held fire extinguishers with a rating not less than which rating shall be used?

• A. 5-A
• B. 20-BC
• C. 10-B
• D. 2-A

Answer: (B)

In oil-handling areas, you need a extinguisher that can handle flammable liquids (Class B) and, because electrical equipment is often present, also electrical fires (Class C). A rating of 20-BC means the extinguisher is rated for Class B fires with a substantial capacity (the “20” indicates its B capability) and is suitable for Class C fires as well. This combination is necessary for bulk oil storage, where both liquid fires and electrical risks can occur. Other options either focus on ordinary combustibles (Class A) or offer a smaller Class B rating or lack the Class C capability, which would be inadequate for this environment. Hence, 20-BC is the appropriate minimum.

In oil-handling areas, you need a extinguisher that can handle flammable liquids (Class B) and, because electrical equipment is often present, also electrical fires (Class C). A rating of 20-BC means the extinguisher is rated for Class B fires with a substantial capacity (the “20” indicates its B capability) and is suitable for Class C fires as well. This combination is necessary for bulk oil storage, where both liquid fires and electrical risks can occur.

Other options either focus on ordinary combustibles (Class A) or offer a smaller Class B rating or lack the Class C capability, which would be inadequate for this environment. Hence, 20-BC is the appropriate minimum.