Ukraine: Adopted rules for the use of fire extinguishers

As of 15 January 2018, all organisations are required to comply with the adopted rules for the use of fire extinguishers and for equipping premises with different types of fire extinguishers.

The Rules set out requirements for the operation of portable fire extinguishers of up to 20 kg and mobile fire extinguishers up to 450 kg, designed to extinguish Class A, B, C, D and F fires and electrical installations with voltages up to 1000 V (hereinafter - E) and the norms for equipping premises with different types of fire extinguishers.

The Rules do not apply to any means of transport, premises where explosive, hazardous chemical, radioactive or bacteriological substances are being stored or handled.

The Rules apply to the following fire extinguishers:

  • ВВ – water fire extinguishers;
  • GDP – water-foam fire extinguisher;
  • ВВПА - fire-extinguishing water-foam aerosol device;
  • VG - gas extinguisher, including carbon dioxide (WWC); and
  • VP – powder fire extinguisher.

Organisations installing fire extinguishers on their premises are required to ensure that the extinguishers have:

  • a conformity certificate;
  • an operating instruction and a passport for each fire extinguisher;
  • intact seals on their locking devices;
  • no external damage on their cases;
  • their pressure indicator arrows in positions within the working range;
  • information about the manufacturer, date of manufacture and technical service on their labelling and documentation.

Organisations must assign an internal registration number to each fire extinguishers and to keep a special fire extinguisher log.

Law: Order No. 25 of 15 January 2018 on the Rules for the Operation and Installation of Fire Extinguishers