Fire Extinguishers for Corridors and Stairways

Corridors and stairways are the central access point of many buildings providing essential escape routes in emergency situations. Although they are usually considered to be of "low fire risk" it is important to remember that extinguishers located within these areas are often required for use in adjoining rooms. Stairways and corridors often contain lighting, vending machines and perhaps even computers so coverage for electrical fires is important.

P50 Water Mist Service-Free Fire Extinguishers

P50 Water Mist Service-Free Fire Extinguishers are an ideal all-rounder for use in most corridor and stairways. Although they are usually considered to be of "low fire risk" it is important to remember that extinguishers located within these areas are often required for use in adjoining rooms. Giving excellent coverage for class A (solid combustibles) fires, the P50 water mist is dielectrically tested, making it safe for use on live electrical equipment such as computers or lighting (up to 1 kV electricity from 1m distance).

P50s are also "service-free", meaning they do not require servicing annually by a technician. Switching to P50 extinguishers could save you up to 50% on the cost of your fire extinguishers.

Fire Classification

P50 Water Mist Fire Extinguishers are suitable for use on the following types of fire.

UltraFire Water Mist Extinguisher

Traditionally, many corridors and stairways would have a water of foam extinguisher coupled with a CO2 extinguisher. This ensures appropriate fire fighting capabilities covering the most likely fire risks in corridor and stairways. CO2 is effective at tackling electrical fires, whilst water and foam provided general coverage for class A (e.g. wood, paper) fires. It is not however advisable to use a portable CO2 extinguisher if the room is very small, the person fighting the fire might become asphyxiated, as the oxygen in the room is displaced by CO2.

The Water Mist Extinguisher can be often used as a replacement (depending on the fire risks) for a traditional foam and CO2, or a water and CO2 combination. This combination can now be replaced by the water mist fire extinguisher due to it being safe for use on class A (solid combustibles) wood, textiles, paper etc and live electrical equipment (up to 1 kV). Having one single unit to tackle all fires reduces the risk of the wrong extinguisher being used in the event of a fire.

Fire Classification

UltraFire Water Mist Fire Extinguishers are suitable for use on the following types of fire.

Related Guides

Read our guide to fire classes and guide to fire extinguisher types to learn more.

Reviewed: 02/11/2021 (doc:10 V1.1). Our articles are reviewed regularly. However, any changes made to standards or legislation following the review date will not have been considered. Please note that we provide abridged, easy-to-understand guidance. To make detailed decisions about your fire safety provisions, you might require further advice or need to consult the full standards and legislation.