How Fire Blankets Can Prevent Industrial Fire Accidents
A fire blanket is a simple fire safety product stored in either a soft or rigid case. Designed to tackle small, contained kitchen fires, they are installed in domestic, educational, residential, and industrial kitchens. A standard fire blanket can withstand a temperature of up to 900 degrees. There are models coming in meters in large rolls like 25, 50 and 100 meters from brands brand Gladious sold by PPE ONLINE which is one of the best fire blanket suppliers in Dubai, UAE.
How does it work?
A traditional fire blanket is constructed from a sheet of woven fire-resistant material which is used to smother the flames, starving them of oxygen and extinguishing the fire before it gets out of control.
There are two grab and pull handle tapes that protrude from the bottom of the fire blanket case. These allow the blanket to be pulled easily from the container and cover the individual's hands to protect them from burns. Fire blankets can be safely used in the event of an emergency without any special training being needed (unlike a fire extinguisher), however, potential users should familiarize themselves with the instructions which are located on the container as this will save time in the event of an incident.
How to use a fire blanket?
- Turn off the source of heat (if safe to do so)
- Pull the tapes to release the fire blanket from its container
- Hold the blanket in a shield position, and if possible, wrap the blanket around your hands for protection
- Place the blanket over the fire to smother the blaze
- Leave it to cool completely, ensuring the fire is fully extinguished
If the flames are larger than the blanket itself, do not attempt to put it out. Instead, go somewhere safe and call the fire brigade as quickly as possible.
Important Facts about Fire Blankets:
- Fire blankets can also be used to extinguish a fire that has caught onto a person's clothing. This is done by placing the person on the ground and wrapping them in the fire blanket, so the oxygen is excluded, and the flames are therefore diminished. Being in a horizontal position also prevents the flames from reaching the victim's face or hair.
- Fire extinguishers are still recommended fire safety devices. Whilst a fire blanket is a more efficient way of tackling smaller, contained saucepan fires, it is not equipped to tackle large or different types of fire.
When to Use a Fire Blanket
Fire blankets are primarily used to tackle small Class F fires. These fires often happen when cooking is left unattended and reaches a hot enough temperature to ignite. They can also occur when flammable oils are spilt close to open flames.
Noting how a fire started is important when using a fire blanket.
Fires burning on the surface can be extinguished by directly smothering them with a blanket. Examples of these types of fire include:
- Burn food in a shallow pan or baking tray.
- Burning oil spilt on a countertop/surface.
- Burning solids on a worktop.
For other Class F fires, a fire blanket alone may not be enough. For example, draping one over burning food in a saucepan may not extinguish the fire. The blanket will effectively form a ‘lid’ over the saucepan, leaving enough oxygen in the pan for the fire to continue to burn.
Using a fire blanket in these situations is still advisable, as it will contain the flames. But you may need to use an additional handheld extinguisher to put out the fire fully.
Selecting a Fire Blanket for Your Workplace
First, it’s necessary to determine whether a fire blanket is needed for your workplace. In Industrial workplaces should always have fire blankets fitted because they feature a variety of Class F fire hazards. When selecting one, you must ensure it conforms to the correct EN or ANSI standards.
They typically come in three sizes:
- 1.0 x 1.0 meter (around the size of a coffee table)
- 1.2 x 1.2 meter (around the size of a medium kitchen table)
- 1.2 x 1.8 meter (around the size of a double mattress)
The smallest-sized blankets are typically used in domestic kitchens, as they’re only effective against small fires, such as those in a frying pan or baking tray. The next size up is probably more suitable for workplaces with higher risks which comes in rolls.
If you're looking for high-quality fire blankets, PPE ONLINE is a fantastic resource. They offer a diverse range of fire blankets made from Silica and Fiberglass fabrics, known for their superior heat resistance and durability. These materials are among the best options available in the UAE market, ensuring effective performance in emergency situations.
Fire blankets are essential for both home and workplace safety, as they can quickly smother small fires and help prevent them from spreading. PPE ONLINE’s products comply with safety standards, giving you peace of mind. Their knowledgeable team can assist you in selecting the right fire blanket for your specific needs, whether for industrial use or personal safety. Don't hesitate to contact them for expert advice and to explore their comprehensive range of fire safety solutions!