Portable Fire Extinguishers - : Part 7: Characteristics, Performance Requirements and Test Methods

BRITISH STANDARD BS EN
3-7:2004
+A1:2007
Portable fire
extinguishers —
Part 7: Characteristics, performance
requirements and test methods
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ICS 13.220.10
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
National foreword
This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007. It

supersedes BS 7937:2000 and BS EN 3-7:2004 which are withdrawn.
The start and finish of text introduced or altered by amendment is indicated in
the text by tags. Tags indicating changes to CEN text carry the number of the
CEN amendment. For example, text altered by CEN amendment A1 is
indicated by !".
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted by Technical Committee
FSH/2, Fire extinguishers, to Subcommittee FSH/2/11, Portable fire
extinguishers.
A list of organizations represented on this subcommittee can be obtained on
request to its secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.
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Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication

This British Standard was
published under the authority
of the Standards Policy and Date Comments
Strategy Committee
on 12 February 2004 30 April 2008 Implementation of CEN amendment A1:2007 and
revision of supersession details
© BSI 2008
ISBN 978 0 580 61919 9

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 3-7:2004+A1
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM August 2007
ICS 13.220.10 Supersedes EN 3-7:2004
English Version
Portable fire extinguishers - Part 7: Characteristics, performance

requirements and test methods
Extincteurs d'incendie portatifs - Partie 7: Caractéristiques, Tragbare Feuerlöscher - Teil 7: Eigenschaften,

performances et méthodes d'essai Leistungsanforderungen und Prüfungen
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 5 March 2003 and includes Amendment 1 approved by CEN on 30 June 2007.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the CEN Management Centre or to any CEN member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN Management Centre has the same status as the
official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland,
France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,
Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
Management Centre: rue de Stassart, 36 B-1050 Brussels
© 2007 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Contents
Foreword..............................................................................................................................................................4
1 Scope ......................................................................................................................................................5
2 Normative references ............................................................................................................................5
3 Terms and definitions ...........................................................................................................................5
4 General....................................................................................................................................................7
4.1 Description of a portable fire extinguisher .........................................................................................7
4.2 Control of discharge..............................................................................................................................8
4.3 Operating position .................................................................................................................................8
4.4 Hose assembly.......................................................................................................................................8
4.5 Propellants .............................................................................................................................................8
4.6 Stored pressure extinguishers.............................................................................................................8
5 Testing of portable fire extinguishers .................................................................................................9
6 Nominal charges, filling tolerances and minimum fire performance ...............................................9
6.1 Nominal charges ....................................................................................................................................9
6.2 Filling tolerances ...................................................................................................................................9
6.3 !Design of the filling opening, excluding carbon dioxide fire extinguishers ..............................9
6.4 Minimum fire ratings .............................................................................................................................9
7 Duration of operation, residual charge and operating temperatures.............................................12
7.1 Duration of operation ..........................................................................................................................12
7.2 Residual charge ...................................................................................................................................13
7.3 Commencement of discharge ............................................................................................................13
7.4 Effective range of operating temperature .........................................................................................13
8 Retention of propellant .......................................................................................................................14
8.1 Verification ...........................................................................................................................................14
8.2 Acceptance levels................................................................................................................................14
8.3 Production leak tests ..........................................................................................................................14
9 Dielectric test for water based extinguishers ...................................................................................15
9.1 General..................................................................................................................................................15
9.2 Required performance ........................................................................................................................15
10 Requirements for components...........................................................................................................15
10.1 General..................................................................................................................................................15
10.2 Operation and emission control mechanisms/devices ...................................................................15
10.3 Safety devices ......................................................................................................................................16
10.4 Filter for water based portable fire extinguishers ............................................................................16
10.5 Hose and coupling systems ...............................................................................................................16
10.6 Control valve ........................................................................................................................................16
11 Means of pressure indication .............................................................................................................17
11.1 Pressure gauge ....................................................................................................................................17
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11.2 Pressure indicator ...............................................................................................................................18

12 Horns for carbon dioxide portable fire extinguishers......................................................................18
13 Portable fire extinguisher mounting bracket ....................................................................................19
14 Resistance to corrosion......................................................................................................................19
14.1 Resistance to external corrosion .......................................................................................................19
14.2 Resistance to extinguishing medium of extinguishers using water based media .......................19
15 Fire performance..................................................................................................................................20

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
15.1 General..................................................................................................................................................20
15.2 Class A fire rating ................................................................................................................................20
15.3 Class B fire rating ................................................................................................................................20
15.4 !Class F fire rating ...........................................................................................................................20
16 Portable fire extinguisher identification............................................................................................20
16.1 Colour ...................................................................................................................................................20
16.2 Marking .................................................................................................................................................20
17 Maintenance .........................................................................................................................................24
Annex A (normative) Duration of operation, residual charge tests .............................................................25
Annex B (normative) Range of operating temperature .................................................................................26
Annex C (normative) Dielectric test ................................................................................................................27
Annex D (normative) Operation and emission control mechanisms/devices ............................................29
Annex E (normative) Test for performance of the hose................................................................................30
Annex F (normative) Control valve test ..........................................................................................................31
Annex G (normative) Tests on the horn .........................................................................................................32
Annex H (normative) Resistance to corrosion...............................................................................................33
Annex I (normative) Fire tests .........................................................................................................................34
Annex J (normative) Measurement of moisture content of wood................................................................42
Annex K (normative) Compaction procedure ................................................................................................43
Annex L (normative) !Specific requirements for Class F fire extinguisher ............................................45
Annex M (normative) !Polar solvents .........................................................................................................50
Bibliography ......................................................................................................................................................52
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Foreword
This document (EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 70 “Manual means of
firefighting equipment”, the secretariat of which is held by AFNOR.
This document shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical text or by
endorsement, at the latest by February 2008 and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the latest by
February 2008.
This document includes Amendment 1, approved by CEN on 2007-06-30.
This document supersedes EN 3-7:2004.
The start and finish of text introduced or altered by amendment is indicated in the text by tags ! ".
EN 3 consists of the following parts, under the general title "Portable fire extinguishers":
!deleted text"
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 Part 61): Provisions for the attestation of conformity of portable fire extinguishers in accordance with EN 3 part
1 to part 5
 Part 7: Characteristics, performance requirements and test methods
 Part 8: Additional requirements to EN 3-7 for the construction, resistance to pressure and mechanical tests for
extinguishers with a maximum allowable pressure equal or lower than 30 bar
 Part 9: Additional requirements to EN 3-7 for pressure resistance of CO2 extinguishers
 Part 102): Provisions valuating the conformity of a portable fire extinguisher to EN 3 part 7
According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden,
Switzerland and United Kingdom.
1) EN 3-6 will be superseded by EN 3-10.

2) EN 3-10 will update and amend EN 3-6. EN 3-10 will supersede EN 3-6.

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
1 Scope
This standard specifies the characteristics, performance requirements and test methods for portable fire
extinguishers.
Reference to the suitability of an extinguisher for use on gaseous fires (class C fires) are at the manufacturer’s
discretion, but are applied only to powder type extinguishers which have gained a class B or class A and class B
rating.
Suitability of extinguishers for use on class D fires (fires involving flammable metals) is outside the scope of this
standard in respect of test fires. However, extinguishers claiming class D suitability are covered in all other respects
by the requirements in this standard for powder extinguishers.
!It is considered hazardous for powder and carbon dioxide fire extinguishers to be used on Class F fires. For
this reason powder and carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are excluded for conformance with regard to Class F in
this European Standard."
NOTE The extinction of a metal fire presents a situation so specific (in terms of the metal itself, its form, the configuration of
the fire etc.) that it is not possible to define a representative standard fire for the purposes of testing. The efficiency of
extinguishers on class D fires needs to be established on a case by case basis.
2 Normative references
This European Standard incorporates by dated or undated reference, provisions from other publications. These
normative references are cited at the appropriate places in the text and the publications are listed hereafter. For
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dated references, subsequent amendments to or revisions of any of these publications apply to this European
Standard only when incorporated in it by amendment or revision. For undated references the latest edition of the
publication referred to applies (including amendments).
EN 2, Classification of fires
ISO 9227, Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres — Salt spray tests
ISO 657-1, Hot-rolled steel sections — Part 1: Equal-leg angles — Dimensions
ISO 4470, Sawn timber — Determination of the average moisture content of a lot
Farbregister RAL-841-GL.
3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this European Standard, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
fire extinguisher
appliance containing an extinguishing medium which can be expelled by the action of internal pressure and be
directed on to a fire
NOTE This pressure can be stored pressure or pressure produced by the release of an auxiliary gas from a cartridge.

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
3.2
portable fire extinguisher
fire extinguisher which is designed to be carried and operated by hand and which in working order has a mass of
not more than 20 kg
NOTE Throughout this standard it is referred to as an "extinguisher"
3.3
clean agent
electrically non-conducting, volatile, or gaseous fire extinguishing medium that does not leave a residue upon
evaporation
NOTE Examples are fluorocarbons (FCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and fluoroiodocarbons (FICs).
3.4
halon
agent that contains as primary components one or more organic compounds containing one or more of the
elements fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine
3.5
body
shell of the extinguisher not fitted with its accessories but fitted with all its welded/brazed parts
3.6
extinguishing medium
substance contained in the extinguisher which causes extinction of a fire
3.7
charge
mass or volume of the extinguishing medium contained in the extinguisher, expressed as a volume (in litres) for
water based extinguishers and as a mass (in kilograms) for other extinguishers
3.8
water based extinguisher
!extinguisher containing water, water with additive or wet chemical
NOTE This also includes foam."
3.9
powder extinguisher
extinguisher containing fire extinguishing powder
3.10
carbon dioxide extinguisher
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extinguisher containing carbon dioxide
3.11
halon extinguisher
extinguisher containing halon
3.12
clean agent extinguisher
extinguisher containing a clean agent
3.13
duration of operation
time during which the extinguishing medium is discharged, without any interruption in the discharge and with the
valve fully opened not including discharge of the residual propellant gas

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
3.14
residual charge
mass of medium remaining after continuous complete discharge including all propellant gas
3.15
maximum pressure at maximum operating temperature, P (Tmax) (Pressure experimentally measured)
pressure measured in the extinguisher after stabilisation during at least 24 h at maximum operating temperature
(which is ≥ 60 °C) and for cartridge operated extinguishers, the maximum pressure is the maximum pressure
recorded for 0,5 s during a period of three minutes, excluding the first second after release of the propellant gas.
3.16
Tmax
maximum operating temperature declared by the manufacturer (see 7.4.1)
3.17
Tmin
minimum operating temperature declared by the manufacturer (see 7.4.1)
4 General
4.1 Description of a portable fire extinguisher
4.1.1 A portable fire extinguisher is described by the type of extinguishing medium it contains. At present, there
are:
 water based, including foam !and wet chemical" extinguishers (see Note 1);
 powder type extinguishers;
 carbon dioxide type extinguishers;
 halon type extinguishers (see Note 2);
 clean agent extinguishers.
NOTE 1 Water based extinguishers can be produced with or without a low freeze depressant.
Water based extinguishers, including foam, containing different proportions of low freeze depressant shall be
treated as separate and distinct models for the purposes of testing the range of operating temperatures (see 7.4.2)
and electrical conductivity (see clause 9), and fire rating tests. All other requirements relating to the design and
construction of water based extinguishers are applicable to all models irrespective of content.
NOTE 2 Attention is drawn to European Council Regulation 2037/2000 concerning the use of halons.
4.1.2 A portable fire extinguisher consists of the following components:
a) body (see 3.5);
b) body fittings, which are fixed to or screwed onto the body, and include at least the following:
 control device(s) (see 4.2, 4.3 and 10.1);
 hose assembly (see 4.4) and/or horns and/or nozzles;
 head assembly. This also constitutes the main closure (see 6.3);
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
 operating device (see 4.3).
NOTE The head assembly, operating device and control device(s) can be separate or may be incorporated in a single unit.
c) media (see 4.1.1):
4.2 Control of discharge
Portable fire extinguishers shall be fitted with a self-closing control valve to enable the discharge to be interrupted
temporarily (see 10.6).
4.3 Operating position
Extinguishers shall operate without being turned over to an inverted position. The operating device of an
extinguisher shall be located on the top of the extinguisher. A control device at the end of the hose shall be
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permitted. Hand wheel controls of the valve on external propellant cartridges shall be located on the top 60 % of the
extinguisher body.
4.4 Hose assembly
Extinguishers having a mass of extinguishing medium greater than 3 kg, or a volume of extinguishing medium
greater than 3 l shall be provided with a discharge hose.
The length of the flexible section of the hose assembly shall be 400 mm or greater.
When an extinguisher having a mass of extinguishing medium less than or equal to 3 kg, or a volume of
extinguishing medium less than or equal to 3 l is fitted with a discharge hose, the hose assembly shall have a
minimum overall length of 250 mm.
4.5 Propellants
Only propellants listed in Table 1 or mixtures thereof, shall be used. The maximum water content shall be as
specified in Table 1, except when used in stored pressure water based extinguishers. Tracers may be added to the
propellant to facilitate leakage detection, but the tracer need not be indicated in the marking.
Table 1 — Permitted propellants
Propellant Maximum water content

mass fraction, %
Air 0,006
Argon 0,006
Carbon dioxide 0,015
Helium 0,006
Nitrogen 0,006
4.6 Stored pressure extinguishers
Stored pressure extinguishers, except carbon dioxide, shall have a means of checking the presence of pressure,
see clause 8 and clause 11.

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
5 Testing of portable fire extinguishers
Extinguishers for testing shall be stored for at least 24 h at a temperature of (20 ± 5) °C before the tests are carried
out and shall be maintained within this temperature range until tested. Tests shall be carried out within 5 min of its
removal from storage.
Powder extinguishers shall be subjected to the compaction procedure given in Annex K before the storage period
preceding the duration of operation test and the control valve test, and before the fire performance test. Water
based extinguishers shall be subjected to the compaction procedure according to Annex K only before the storage
period preceding the duration of operation test.
6 Nominal charges, filling tolerances and minimum fire performance
6.1 Nominal charges
Nominal charges of portable fire extinguishers shall be equal to one of the values given in Tables 3 to 8 according
to the nature of the extinguishing medium.
6.2 Filling tolerances
The actual charge of the extinguisher shall be equal to the nominal charge within the tolerances given in Table 2.
Table 2 — Filling tolerances
Extinguishing medium Relative tolerance

%
Powder
1 kg ±5
2 kg ±3
≥ 3 kg ±2
All other media 0
-5
6.3 !Design of the filling opening, excluding carbon dioxide fire extinguishers
The filling opening shall have a minimum diameter of:
 20 mm for extinguishers with a charge of less than or equal to 3 kg or 3 l;
 25 mm for extinguishers with a charge of more than 3 kg or 3 l.
The main closure of the filling opening, intended to be removed during service or maintenance, shall be provided
with an automatic means of venting any residual pressure from the extinguisher. The initial venting of any residual
pressure shall occur when the means of securing the closure, or pressure retaining part, is disengaged by not more
than one third of full engagement."
6.4 Minimum fire ratings
6.4.1 General
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Fire classes are defined in EN 2.

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
The minimum fire ratings are specified in !Tables 3 to 8 and L.2", according to the type of extinguishing
medium and the charge.
Fire performance shall be tested in accordance with clause 15, and the extinguisher shall attain a class A rating, a
class B rating or both as specified in the relevant table, in accordance with the rating claimed by the
manufacturer. !Class F extinguishers shall attain a class F rating and may optionally have a class A and/or class
B rating."
EXAMPLE A powder extinguisher for which the manufacturer wishes to claim class A and class B ratings achieves, for the
size with a 9 kg charge, a minimum fire rating of 27A and 144B.
Clean agent extinguishers shall have a minimum fire rating of 5A and/or 21B for extinguishers with charges in the
range 1 kg, 2 kg, 3 kg, 4 kg, 6 kg, 9 kg and 12 kg.
6.4.2 Ratings for class A fires
Fire ratings of extinguishers for class A fires are given in Tables 3 and 4.
NOTE The numbers in the first column of each table refer to the size of the test fire (see Annex I).
Table 3 — Fire ratings, minimum duration of operation and nominal charges

for powder extinguishers
Fire rating Minimum Nominal permitted charges

duration of
operation
s kg
5A 6 1
8A 6 1, 2
13A 9 1, 2, 3, 4
21A 9 1, 2, 3, 4, 6
27A 9 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9
34A 12 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9
43A 15 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 12
55A 15 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 12
Table 4 — Fire ratings, minimum duration of operation and nominal charges for water
based extinguishers, including foam extinguishers

duration of
operation
s l
5A 6 2, 3
8A 9 2, 3, 6
13A 9 2, 3, 6, 9
21A 9 2, 3, 6, 9
27A 12 2, 3, 6, 9
34A 15 2, 3, 6, 9
43A 15 2, 3, 6, 9
55A 15 2, 3, 6, 9
10
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
6.4.3 Ratings for class B fires
Minimum fire ratings of extinguishers for class B fires are given in Tables 5, 6, 7 and 8.
!Water based fire extinguishers claiming suitability for use on polar solvent shall additionally pass the tests
specified in Annex M and shall be marked accordingly."
NOTE The numbers in the first column of each table refer to the size of the test fire (see Annex I).
Table 5 — Fire ratings, minimum duration of operation and nominal charges

for powder extinguishers

duration of
operation
s kg
21B 6 1
34B 6 1, 2
55B 9 1, 2, 3
70B 9 1, 2, 3, 4
89B 9 1, 2, 3, 4
113B 12 1, 2, 3, 4, 6
144B 15 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9
183B 15 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 12
233B 15 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 12
Table 6 — Fire ratings, minimum duration of operation and nominal charges for water based
extinguishers, including foam extinguishers

duration of
operation
s l
34B 6 2
55B 9 2, 3
70B 9 2, 3
89B 9 2, 3
113B 12 2, 3, 6
144B 15 2, 3, 6
183B 15 2, 3, 6, 9
233B 15 2, 3, 6, 9
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11

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Table 7 — Fire ratings, minimum duration of operation and nominal charges for CO2 extinguishers

duration of
operation
s kg
21B 6 2
34B 6 2
55B 9 2, 5
70B 9 2, 5
89B 9 2, 5
113B 12 2, 5
144B 15 2, 5
183B 15 2, 5
233B 15 2, 5
Table 8 — Fire ratings, minimum duration of operation and nominal charges for halon extinguishers

duration of
operation
s kg
21B 6 1
34B 6 1, 2
55B 9 1, 2, 4
70B 9 1, 2, 4, 6
89B 9 1, 2, 4, 6
113B 12 1, 2, 4, 6
144B 15 1, 2, 4, 6
183B 15 1, 2, 4, 6
233B 15 1, 2, 4, 6
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7 Duration of operation, residual charge and operating temperatures
7.1 Duration of operation
7.1.1 Minimum duration
The duration of operation shall be greater than or equal to the appropriate value given in !Tables 3 to 8 and
L.2" when the portable fire extinguisher is tested according to Annex A after being subjected to the compaction
procedure in accordance with Annex K (see clause 5).
7.1.2 Spread of measurements
When three extinguishers are tested in accordance with Annex A, after being subjected to the compaction
procedure in accordance with Annex K (see clause 5), the duration of operation of each extinguisher shall be within
15 % of the average value.
12

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
7.2 Residual charge
The residual charge (see 3.14) of extinguishing medium shall not be more than 10 % of the nominal charge when
the extinguisher is tested in accordance with Annex A after being subjected to the compaction procedure in
accordance with Annex K (see clause 5).
7.3 Commencement of discharge
When tested in accordance with Annex A, after being subjected to the compaction procedure in accordance with
Annex K, all extinguishers shall operate within 4 s of the control valve being opened. When testing extinguishers
pressurised by a separate action, the control valve shall be operated within 6 s after activation.
7.4 Effective range of operating temperature
7.4.1 Tmax and Tmin claimed by the manufacturer shall be used for the tests in 7.4.2 and Annex B.
7.4.2 Extinguishers shall be able to operate between Tmax and Tmin:
 Tmax for all extinguishers shall be 60 °C or higher;
 Tmin excluding water based extinguisher, shall be - 20 °C, - 30 °C or lower;
 Tmin for water based extinguishers shall be + 5 °C, 0 °C, - 5 °C, - 10 °C, - 15 °C, - 20 °C, - 25 °C,
- 30 °C or lower. For water based extinguishers without any protection against freezing Tmin shall
be + 5 °C.
When tested at Tmax and Tmin temperature limits, in accordance with Annex B, extinguishers shall conform to the
following requirements:
 the discharge shall commence within 10 s of the opening of the control valve;
 except for CO2 extinguishers, the duration of operation shall be not more than twice the value established at a
temperature of 20 °C. CO2 extinguishers shall conform to 7.4.3;
 the duration of operation shall be not less than 6 s;
 the residual charge shall be not more than 15 % of the nominal charge for extinguishers containing BC type
powder, and not more than 10 % of the nominal charge for extinguishers containing other media.
7.4.3 The duration of operation of CO2 extinguishers shall be as follows.
At Tmax the duration of operation shall be not more than the value established at a temperature of 20 °C.
At the minimum operating temperature, Tmin, the duration of operation shall be not more than 2,5 times the value
established at 20 °C.
13
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
8 Retention of propellant
8.1 Verification
8.1.1 General
All extinguishers and propellant cartridges shall be designed in such a way as to permit their retention of propellant
to be checked at regular intervals.
8.1.2 Weighing
The following shall be capable of being checked by weight:
 propellant cartridges;
 CO2 extinguishers.
8.1.3 Pressure measuring methods
8.1.3.1 It shall be possible to check the retention of pressure of a stored pressure extinguisher, with the
exception of carbon dioxide extinguishers, as specified in 8.1.3.2, 8.1.3.3 or 8.1.3.4.
8.1.3.2 The extinguisher shall be fitted with a connection to enable the internal pressure to be checked directly
by an independent apparatus. Such a connection shall be fitted with a pressure retaining cap (see 8.1.3.1) and
shall communicate directly to the contents under pressure. Such a pressure retaining cap can be a cap, pressure
gauge or pressure indicator.
8.1.3.3 Alternatively, the extinguisher shall be fitted with a pressure gauge conforming to 11.1.
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8.1.3.4 Alternatively the extinguisher shall be fitted with a pressure indicator which conforms to 11.2. In
addition to this device the extinguisher shall also be fitted with a connection which conforms to 8.1.3.2 in order that
the pressure indicator can be checked.
8.2 Acceptance levels
Leakage from an extinguisher, or propellant cartridge, shall not exceed the following:
a) for stored pressure extinguishers a rate less than or equal to 6 % (v/v) of the expanded gas at 20 °C per year;
NOTE The volume of the expanded gas is the free volume of the gas at 20 °C;
b) for extinguishers and propellant cartridges tested by weighing, a rate of 5 % of the nominal charge per year;
c) for extinguishers, pressurised only at the moment of operation, after pressurisation a leak exceeding 5 cm3 of
gas per minute, per kilogram or litre of charge of the extinguisher.
8.3 Production leak tests
To test for conformity to 8.2a) and 8.2b), all extinguishers and propellant cartridges shall be tested. A rate of
leakage greater than the limit specified in 8.2a) or 8.2b) shall result in the rejection of the extinguisher.
To test for conformity to 8.2c), samples shall be tested to an appropriate sampling plan. A rate of leakage greater
than the limit specified in 8.2c) shall result in the rejection of the batch of extinguishers.
14

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
9 Dielectric test for water based extinguishers
9.1 General
The dielectric test is designed to establish the suitability of water based extinguishers for use on live electrical
equipment by measurement of the electrical conductivity of the discharge stream.
In order to be usable on live electrical equipment, water based extinguishers shall conform to 9.2.
NOTE For the marking requirement see clause 16.
9.2 Required performance
When the extinguisher is in operation and the metallic plate is live, the current between the handle and earth, and
between the nozzle and earth, shall be not more than 0,5 mA at any time during the complete discharge of the
portable fire extinguisher. The test shall be carried out in accordance with Annex C.
10 Requirements for components
10.1 General
With the exception of the safety device specified in 10.3 no component of the fire extinguisher shall require to be
mounted, removed or modified before or during use.
10.2 Operation and emission control mechanisms/devices
The activation of the extinguisher shall not depend upon the repetition of a given action on the same device. For
extinguishers other than CO2 extinguishers, the force or the energy required to activate the operating device(s)
shall be no greater than those given in Table 9 for temperatures up to Tmax
For CO2 extinguishers, this force shall be no greater than 200 N at temperatures up to 40 °C and no greater than
300 N at the maximum temperature (Tmax).
Activation means the totality of actions required for pressurisation (if the extinguisher is not permanently under
pressure) and the initial release of the extinguishing agent. If a single device can activate the unit without repetition
of movement, it is permissible for the same device to be re-used in order to control the output (see Annex D).
Table 9 — Force or energy required to activate the operating device
Type of device Maximum force or energy

Force Energy
N J
Finger trigger 100 —
Squeeze grip lever 200 —
Screw down hand wheel ab 100 —
Strike knob — 2
a The force shall be measured at the outside edge of the wheel.
b The maximum rotation of wheel to be 360° to achieve fully opening position.
15
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
10.3 Safety devices
The operating mechanism of the extinguisher shall be provided with a safety device to prevent inadvertent
operation. The release of the safety device shall involve an operation distinct from that of the operating mechanism
and shall require a force between the limits of 20 N and 100 N.
!deleted text"
The safety device shall be so constructed that any unaided manual attempt, using a force or impact equal to twice
the relevant value given in Table 9 to initiate discharge, without first operating this device, does not deform or break
any part of the mechanism in such a way as to prevent the subsequent discharge of the extinguisher.
The extinguisher shall be fitted with a safety element. The safety element shall be provided with means to show
whether the extinguisher may have been operated. This may be in the form of a wire and seal or a mechanism
which prevents re-insertion of the safety element. It shall be possible to see if the safety element has been
removed.
10.4 Filter for water based portable fire extinguishers
The discharge from water based portable fire extinguishers shall be through a filter, in order to retain foreign matter.
This filter shall be placed upstream of the smallest section of the discharge passage. Each orifice of the filter shall
have an area smaller than that of the smallest cross-section of the discharge passage. The total area of the
combined filter orifices shall be at least equal to 8 times the smallest cross-section of the discharge passage. This
filter shall be accessible to facilitate maintenance operations on the portable fire extinguisher.
10.5 Hose and coupling systems
The hose and coupling system shall function throughout the operating temperature range, and coupling systems
shall be designed and fitted in such a way that they cannot damage the hose.
When tested in accordance Annex E, the performance of the hose shall conform to a) or b) as appropriate.
a) For all types except CO2 portable fire extinguishers:
 three times P(Tmax), the test being carried out at (20 ± 5) °C;
 twice P(Tmax), the test being carried out at (Tmax ± 2) °C and at (Tmin ± 2)°C;
b) for CO2 extinguishers:
 1,5 times P(Tmax), the test being carried out at (20 ± 5) °C;
 1,25 times P(Tmax), the test being carried out at (Tmax ± 2) °C and at the minimum claimed temperature.
10.6 Control valve
10.6.1 Extinguishers shall be fitted with a self closing control valve allowing the discharge of the extinguishing
media to be discontinued, furthermore, the valve shall be resistant to leakage following the cessation of the
emission as specified in 10.6.2, 10.6.3 or 10.6.4, as applicable. Testing shall be carried out in accordance with
Annex F.
10.6.2 For extinguishers other than 1 kg and 2 kg powder extinguishers and all CO2 extinguishers the second
value of pressure shall be either, not less than 80 % of the first measured value or not less than 50 % of the
pressure measured before opening the control valve.
16
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
10.6.3 For 1 kg and 2 kg powder extinguishers the second pressure value shall be not less than 80 % of the
first measured value.
10.6.4 For CO2 extinguishers the second value of the mass shall be not less than 80 % of the first measured
value.
11 Means of pressure indication
11.1 Pressure gauge
11.1.1 The pressure gauge shall be capable of being checked to ensure that it is in good working order by an
independent apparatus which uses the application of an external pressure for checking the pressure.
11.1.2 The scale of the pressure gauge (see Figure 1) shall have:
 a zero zone (to indicate zero pressure). If there is an end stop for the moving pointer, this shall be on the
negative pressure side of the zero zone. The pointer shall not contact the end stop at zero pressure;
 a green zone (working zone), corresponding to the pressures between operating temperatures (see 7.4) with
the following tolerances:
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 -15 % at Tmin;
 +6 % at Tmax
The derived pressures are rounded off to the nearest full or half bar.
The zones either side of the green zone shall be red.
The permitted errors in indication are:
 1 bar max at the low pressure end of the green zone;
 ± 6 % at the high pressure end of the green zone;
 the (P + 20 °C) point shall be indicated and the maximum permitted error is ± 0,5 bar.
To ensure that the pressure indication is visible, the pressure gauge shall conform to the following:
 the gauge shall have a moving pointer extending radially into the indicating green zone with a length of
between 50 % and 80 % of the green zone height;
 the position of the pointer at both ends of the green zone and at P (+ 20 °C) shall be such that it is clearly
visible;
 the gauge shall have a total scale length equal to or greater than 1,5 times the length from zero to the high
pressure end of the green zone.
17

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Key
1 Rounded to the nearest 0,5 bar
2 Green
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3 Red
Figure 1 — Scale on pressure gauge
11.1.3 When tested at a temperature of (20 ± 5) °C, the pressure gauge shall operate within the range of error
permitted by 11.1.2 after having been subjected to 1 000 pressure cycles from zero to P (Tmax) and back to zero at
an average rate of pressure change of (20 ± 5) bar/min.
11.1.4 The materials of construction of the pressure gauge which may be in contact with the extinguishing
medium and propellant gas shall be compatible with these or protected from them.
11.1.5 All tests shall be carried out at (20 ± 5) °C.
11.2 Pressure indicator
11.2.1 The pressure indicator shall indicate whether the extinguisher is in an operable condition.
11.2.2 The change in indication between an operable and an inoperable condition shall occur at a pressure
corresponding to the pressure at the minimum operating temperature. The error in this indication shall not exceed
1 bar.
12 Horns for carbon dioxide portable fire extinguishers

12.1 If the horn is not incorporated in the extinguisher (e.g. when it is connected by a hose) it shall be fitted with a
handle to protect the hand of the operator against cooling during use.
12.2 After being subjected to the test described in G.1, the horn shall show no damage, and no deformation which
alters the diameter of the end of the horn by more than 10 %.
12.3 All connections between the valve and the horn and nozzle shall be such as to prevent loosening or
detachment. Where this is provided by mechanical means such as lock-nuts, lock-washers, or spring washers, the
torque required to loosen the assembly shall be equal to or greater than 20 N·m. When adhesives, or other
methods of assembly, are used the torque required to loosen the assembly shall be equal to or greater than 10 N·m.
18

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
12.4 After being subjected to the test described in G.2 the horn shall show no damage, and no deformation which
alters the diameter of the end of the horn by more than 10 %.
13 Portable fire extinguisher mounting bracket

The test is carried out on one specimen.
If a mounting bracket is provided with the extinguisher it shall conform to the following requirements:
 removal of the extinguisher from the bracket shall be easy and its method of removal shall be obvious;
 the bracket, when mounted on a wall in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions shall be capable of
supporting without permanent deformation a load of at least twice the total mass of the portable fire
extinguisher.
NOTE Special brackets to be used for extinguishers in vehicles, on vessels and on aircraft can be subject to national or
international regulations.
14 Resistance to corrosion
14.1 Resistance to external corrosion
After having been subjected to the test procedure described in H.1 the two extinguishers both shall conform to the
following requirements:
 the force, or energy, as applicable, required to activate the extinguisher shall be as specified in 10.2;
 the force required to release the safety device shall be as specified in 10.3;
 when the extinguisher is tested in accordance with Annex A the duration of operation at (20 ± 10) °C shall be
within ± 25 % of the average value given in 7.1.2;
 after operation the pressure gauge, or pressure indicator, if one is fitted, shall return to the indication of no
pressure;
 when tested in accordance with Annex E, the performance of the hose shall be as specified in 10.5. The test
being carried out at (20 ± 5) °C;
 there shall be no corrosion of the metal of the extinguisher likely to impair its operation or safety.
14.2 Resistance to extinguishing medium of extinguishers using water based media
After having been subjected to the test procedure described in H.2 the two extinguishers both shall conform to the
following requirements.
There shall be no visible signs of corrosion of the metal, nor detachment, cracking or bubbling of any protective
coating of the body. There shall be no visible change in the colour of the extinguishing medium other than that
resulting from the thermal cycling.
NOTE Allowance should be made for the change of colour that occurs naturally due to the temperature changes. It is
recommended that two samples of the extinguishing medium are stored in closed glass containers for reference purposes
whereby one of the samples is exposed to the same temperature cycling as the extinguisher and compared to the medium in
the extinguisher after the test.
19
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
15 Fire performance
15.1 General
15.1.1 Fire performance shall be tested in accordance with Annex I !, Annex L and Annex M". Before testing,
powder extinguishers shall be subjected to the compaction procedure described in Annex K.
15.1.2 A portable fire extinguisher shall be deemed to satisfy the relevant fire performance requirements when
two test fires of a series of three are extinguished. A test series is complete after three fires, or when the
first two fires have both been extinguished or have both not been extinguished. Each test series shall be completed
before the next is commenced. There is no restriction on the number of series that may be carried out on the same
type of portable fire extinguisher without modifications, but a series shall consist of consecutive fires and results
shall not be ignored.
15.1.3 If only one test fire from a series of 3 is extinguished, this successful result may be used once only as the
initial result in the next set of fire tests on this extinguisher model at a lower fire test rating.
15.2 Class A fire rating
The class A fire rating shall be determined in accordance with I.2.
15.3 Class B fire rating
The class B fire rating shall be determined in accordance with I.3 !and suitability for polar solvents, if applicable,
in accordance with Annex M".
15.4 !Class F fire rating
The Class F fire rating shall be determined in accordance with L.5."
16 Portable fire extinguisher identification
16.1 Colour
The colour of the body shall be red RAL 3000 as specified in Farbregister RAL-841-GL.
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National regulations may require a zone of colour with an area of up to 10 % of the surface area of the extinguisher
body to be used to identify the extinguishing agent.
16.2 Marking
The marking on the extinguisher shall be in contrasting colour(s) to the background. The marking shall be divided
into five parts as shown in Figure 2.
The marking required for Parts 1, 2, 3 and 5 shall be contained on the same label or in the same frame. The label
(or frame) shall be in such a position that it can be clearly read when the extinguisher is on its mounting bracket.
The marking required for Part 4 may be placed elsewhere on the extinguisher.
The value of H, for calculating the height of the lettering (which shall be determined by reference to an upper case
letter E), except when the marking is in more than one language, shall be not less than:
 3 mm for extinguishers having a charge ≤ 3 kg or 3 l;
 5 mm for extinguishers having a charge > 3 kg or 3 l.
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
If the marking is in more than one language, the minimum value of H shall be 2 mm.
The height of the lettering in Parts 1, 2, 3 and 4 shall be as follows subject to a tolerance of ± 10 %.
 Part 1: 1,5 × H for the words ‘fire extinguisher’;
 0,75 × H for the other information;
 Part 2: 1 × H;
 Part 3: 1 × H;
 Part 4: 0,5 × H.
The height of the frame containing Part 5 shall not exceed 1/3 of the total height of Parts 1, 2 and 3.
NOTE The circled numbers indicate the parts of the marking and the numbers to the right of each part indicate the height
of the lettering as a proportion of H (see 16.2).
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
NOTE The circled numbers indicate the parts of the marking and the numbers to the right of each part indicate the height
of the lettering as a proportion of H (see 16.2).
Figure 2 — Example of marking of an extinguisher

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22

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Part 1 shall contain the following information in sequence:
 the words ‘FIRE EXTINGUISHER’; or ‘EXTINGUISHER’ plus medium, or ‘FIRE EXTINGUISHER’ plus
medium;
 the type of extinguishing medium and the nominal charge;
 the fire rating or ratings of the extinguisher !(see 6.4, Clause 15, Annex I and Annex L)".
Part 2 shall contain the following information:
 the instructions for use, which shall include one or more pictograms each with an explanation;
The text of the instructions for use shall be in the language or languages of the country where the extinguisher is to
be used, the different actions to be carried out being shown one after another vertically from top to bottom.
The pictograms shall all be located in the same position with regard to the relevant texts and the direction of the
movements to be carried out shall be indicated by arrows.
 pictograms representing the type of fires are shown in !Figure 3 and Figure L.1. Class A, Class B and
Class F pictograms" shall only be used where the corresponding fire rating is shown on the marking. Class
C pictogram shall only be shown on powder extinguishers where Class C suitability is shown on the marking.
These pictograms shall be arranged horizontally on one line under the instructions for use;
 !for extinguishers having additionally passed the requirements of Annex M the words:
"also suitable for use on polar solvents." immediately under the pictograms representing the types of fire."
The pictograms representing the types of fire shall appear in square boxes of side 20 mm minimum for portable fire
extinguishers with a charge of less than or equal to 3 kg or 3 l and 25 mm minimum for portable fire extinguishers
with a charge of more than 3 kg or 3 l. A square containing a code letter shall appear at the corner of each
pictogram as shown in Figure 3.
Extinguishers claiming class D suitability shall not be marked for suitability of any other fire class.
Part 3 shall contain information relating to any restrictions or dangers of use, in particular in relation to toxicity
and electrical risk.
NOTE Attention is drawn to national regulations.
Portable fire extinguishers using water or foam and not tested to, or not meeting the requirements of, clause 9 shall
be marked with the following warning: "WARNING: Do not use on live electrical equipment".
Portable fire extinguishers using other agents and water based extinguishers meeting the requirements of clause 9
shall be marked to indicate that they are suitable for use on live electrical equipment e.g. "suitable for use on live
electrical equipment up to 1 000 V at a distance of 1 m".
NOTE Attention is drawn to national regulations or practice.
Part 4 shall contain at least the following:
 an instruction to refill after any operation;
 an instruction to check periodically and to use only products and spare parts in conformity with the agreed
model for refilling and maintenance;
 the identification of the extinguishing medium and, in particular, identification and percentage of additives for
water based media;
23
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
 if applicable, the identification of the propellant gas;
 the number(s) or reference(s) relating to the approval of the extinguisher;
 the manufacturer’s model designation;
 the operating temperature range;
 a warning against the risk of freezing for water based extinguishers;
 a reference to the European Standard EN 3.
Part 5 shall contain:
 the name and address of the portable fire extinguisher manufacturer and/or supplier.
In addition, the year of manufacture shall be marked somewhere on the portable fire extinguisher.
Figure 3 — Pictograms
17 Maintenance
It shall be possible to perform periodic maintenance on each portable fire extinguisher.
NOTE 1 The periodic maintenance interval can be included in the marking given in Part 4 (see 16.2).
NOTE 2 Attention is drawn to national regulations. --`,,```,``,,````,``,,```,,`,,,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
24

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex A
(normative)
Duration of operation, residual charge tests
NOTE See 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3.
The test shall be carried out on 3 specimens.
Weigh the extinguisher.
Hold the extinguisher in its normal working position (i.e. hand-held) and keep it immobile for the duration of the test.
For those extinguishers supplied with a final control valve and an independent activation system, (see 7.3)
pressurise when the final control valve is closed. Open this control valve 6 s after the commencement of
pressurisation of the extinguisher.
For extinguishers which are activated by a single operation of the control valve (see 7.3), open the control valve
and leave open for the duration of the test.
Measure and record the time between the opening of the control valve and the commencement of discharge.
Measure and record the duration of operation.
For gaseous extinguishers: reweigh, calculate and record the residual charge.
For all other extinguishers: reweigh, empty the residual extinguishant, reweigh or measure and record it.
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex B
(normative)
Range of operating temperature
NOTE See 7.4.
B.1 Carry out testing on four extinguishers. Before testing, weigh each extinguisher, then subject
two extinguishers to temperature cycle A as given in B.2 and subject the other two extinguishers to temperature
cycle B as given in B.3. Storage at the temperatures given in B.2 and B.3 shall be carried out in conditioning
chambers. Liquid baths shall not be used. Extinguishers shall remain upright during temperature cycling.
B.2 Temperature cycle A. Store the extinguisher, at each of the following temperatures in succession for
(24 ± 1) h:
 (Tmin ± 2) °C, as specified in 7.4.2;
 (+ 20 ± 5) °C;
 (Tmax ± 2) °C.
B.3 Temperature cycle B. Store the extinguisher, at each of the following temperatures in succession for
24 h ± 1 h:
 (Tmax ± 2) °C;
 (+ 20 ± 5) °C;
 (Tmin ± 2) °C, as specified in 7.4.2.
B.4 Operate the extinguisher within 1 min of its removal from the conditioning chamber. The extinguisher shall be
operated in accordance with 7.3, except for cartridge type extinguishers where activation is by a single action. In
this case the cartridge shall be opened and the control valve closed immediately for a period of 6 s after which the
control valve shall be reopened.
B.5 Measure and record the time between the opening of the final control valve and the commencement of
discharge. Measure and record the duration of operation.
B.6 For gaseous extinguishers: reweigh, calculate and record the residual charge. For all other extinguishers:
reweigh, empty the residual extinguishant, reweigh or measure and record it.
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex C
(normative)
Dielectric test
NOTE See clause 9.
C.1 Apparatus
C.1.1 A metallic plate, the target, (1 × 1) m, hung vertically by insulators and with no object or structure closer
than:
 1 m below the bottom of the plate;
 1 m either side of the edges of the plate;
 1 m from either face of the plate;
 0,5 m above the top of the plate.
C.1.2 A trough or other container, arranged below the target plate to collect any liquid run off from the plate
and insulated from earth.
C.1.3 A high voltage transformer, enabling an alternating voltage of 35 kV to be established between the
metallic plate and earth.
The impedance of the circuit shall be such that, when the secondary is short circuited and the primary supplied by a
voltage equal to 10 % of its normal supply voltage, the secondary current is not less than 0,1 mA.
C.1.4 An insulating support, (for fixed nozzle extinguishers).
C.1.5 An insulating tray, (for extinguishers fitted with a hose).
C.2 Test procedure

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The apparatus shall be set up according to the arrangement shown in Figure C.1.
A fixed nozzle type extinguisher shall be fixed onto the insulating support and so arranged that the discharge outlet,
situated at 1 m from the metallic plate, the target, is directed towards its centre.
An extinguisher with a hose shall be placed on the insulating tray and so arranged that the discharge outlet is 1 m
from the target plate and directed towards its centre.
The current shall be measured by an ammeter connected in turn between the handle of the extinguisher and earth
and between the nozzle and earth. If no complete metallic path exists between the extinguishing media and at least
one of the above connection points to the measuring device, such a path shall be created for the purpose of the
test.
Discharge the extinguisher, ensuring that the discharged medium contacts the target, and measure and record the
current.
27

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Dimensions in meters
Key
1 Test transformer
2 Low voltage supply
3 Metallic plate
4 Ammeter
5 Extinguisher under test
6 Collecting trough (insulated from earth)
7 Earth
Figure C.1 — Schematic arrangement of apparatus for dielectric test --`,,```,``,,````,``,,```,,`,,,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
28

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex D
(normative)
Operation and emission control mechanisms/devices
NOTE See clause 10.
D.1 Measurement of the forces

The forces, which shall be measured with the use of a dynameter, shall be applied statically and perpendicularly at
the normal point where force is used to render the extinguisher operable.
D.2 Measurement of energy

!The energy of 2 J is obtained by allowing a 4 kg weight (see D.3) to fall from a height of 50 mm. The impact
shall be applied in the direction of the operating mode.
NOTE The maximum forces required to operate the extinguisher and release the safety device are specified in Clause
10."
D.3 !Apparatus
The weight (see D.2) shall consist of a cylindrical steel weight with flat surfaces measuring 75 mm in diameter and
weighing 4 kg. The weight shall be capable of falling freely."
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex E
(normative)
Test for performance of the hose
NOTE See 10.5.
Where testing is to be carried out at a temperature other than 20 °C, condition the hose and attached components
at the relevant temperature for a period of between 12 h and 24 h:
 test at (20 ± 5) °C 1 specimen ;
 test at (Tmax ± 2) °C - 2 specimens;
 test at (Tmin ± 2) °C - 2 specimens.
The hose shall be fitted to a means of providing the required pressure and the open end blanked off by suitable
means.
Increase the pressure in the hose to the minimum applicable value as specified in 10.5, in a time of not less than
30 s and maintain the pressure for a further 30 s. If the hose does not burst, increase the pressure until the hose
does burst and record the pressure at which this occurs.
NOTE Attached components include pistols.
30
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex F
(normative)
Control valve test
NOTE See 10.6.
F.1 General
This test shall be carried out at (20 ± 10) °C (see 10.6).
The test is carried out on 2 specimens.
F.2 All extinguishers excluding 1 kg and 2 kg powder extinguishers

Operate the extinguisher and allow the medium to discharge for between 5 % and 15 % of the average discharge
duration given in 7.1.2.
For extinguishers with a (propellant) gas cartridge, open the control valve in accordance with a) or b) as applicable:
a) if the extinguisher is fitted with a pressurization device independent of the device which opens the control valve,
operate the pressurization device and 3 min later open the control valve to initiate discharge;
b) if a single action pressurizes the extinguisher and releases the first emission of gas, pressurize the
extinguisher initially and 3 min later open the control valve again to permit discharge of the extinguishing
medium.
Then close the control valve.
Measure the internal pressure, or in the case of CO2 the mass, of the extinguisher within 10 s of the control valve
having been closed and again after 5 min; the control valve having remained closed for the duration of this period.
F.3 1 kg and 2 kg powder extinguishers

Operate the extinguisher and allow the medium to discharge for between 1 s and 1,5 s.
Then close the control valve.
Measure the internal pressure within 10 s of the control valve having been closed and again after 2 min; the control
valve having remained closed for the duration of this period.
31
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex G
(normative)
Tests on the horn
NOTE See clause 12.
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G.1 Static load test
The test is carried out on one specimen.
Place the horn on its side on a rigid surface. Measure the diameter of the wide end of the horn in the vertical plane.
Apply a static load of 25 kg to the wide end of the horn in the vertical plane, using a circular contact surface of
50 mm diameter. Apply the load for 5 min. (48 ± 2) h after removal of the load re-measure the diameter of the wide
end of the horn in the vertical plane and examine the horn for damage.
G.2 Temperature test

The test is carried out on two specimens.
Measure the diameter of the wide end of the horn. Bring the horn to a temperature of (Tmax ± 2) °C and discharge
the extinguisher. Re-measure the diameter of the wide end of the horn in the same plane as the first measurement,
and examine the horn for damage.
32

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex H
(normative)
Resistance to corrosion
NOTE See 14.
H.1 External corrosion
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Complete sample extinguishers shall be subjected to a salt spray test in accordance with ISO 9227 type NSS for a
period of 480 h, and then shall immediately be washed carefully to remove any salt deposits. Two extinguishers
shall be tested, either two of the same size or one extinguisher each of two different sizes from the same family
which use the same material and method of construction.
H.2 Resistance to water based extinguishing medium

Two extinguishers charged in accordance with the manufacturer’s filling instructions, shall be subjected 8 times to
the temperature cycle given in Table H.1. Storage at the temperatures specified in Table H.1 shall be carried out in
conditioning chambers. Liquid baths shall not be used. The duration of any one complete cycle shall not exceed
120 h.
Table H.1 — Temperature cycle
Stage Duration Temperature

h °C
1 24 ± 1 Tmin ± 2
2 ≥ 24 + 20 ± 5
3 24 ± 1 Tmax ± 2
4 ≥ 24 + 20 ± 5
On completion of the eight temperature cycles, the extinguishing medium shall be drained off and examined for
colour change, and each extinguisher body shall be cut into two sections in a manner which permits internal
examination. Detachment of any protective coating local to the plane of section shall be disregarded.
33

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex I
(normative)
Fire tests
NOTE See clause 15.
I.1 General
To carry out these tests the operator shall be dressed in clothing suitable for the purpose. The use of a helmet,
gloves and approved non-reflective visor shall be permitted. The operator shall not wear an aluminium-faced suit.
Cartridge type extinguishers shall be pressurised prior to the end of the pre-combustion period.
The compaction procedure described in Annex K shall be carried out on each powder extinguisher immediately
before submission to the fire test.
I.2 Class A fire test

NOTE See 15.2.
I.2.1 Characteristics of test fires
Class A test fires shall consist of a crib of wooden sticks supported on a metal frame 250 mm high, 900 mm wide
and of a length equal to that of the test fire (see Figure I.1). The metal frame shall be constructed from angle
sections (L × W) (50 × 50) mm as specified in ISO 657-1.
Each test fire is designated by a number (which indicates the fire size) followed by the letter A. The designating
number of the test fire represents the following two parameters as shown in Table I.1:
 the length of the test fire in decimetres, i.e., the length of the wooden sticks arranged in the longitudinal
direction of the test fire;
 the number of 500 mm wooden sticks for each layer arranged in the transverse direction of the test fire.
NOTE Each test fire is designated by a number in a series in which each term is equal to the sum of the two preceding
terms, i.e. this series is equivalent to a geometrical progression having a common ratio of about 1,62. The additional fires 27A
and 43A represent the product of the preceding term and 1,62 .
34
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Table I.1 — Characteristics of class A test fires
Designation of test fire Number of 500 mm wooden Length of test fire

sticks in each transverse layer
m
5A 5 0,5
8A 8 0,8
13A 13 1,3
21A 21 2,1
27A 27 2,7
34A 34 3,4
43A 43 4,3
55A 55 5,5
Test fires greater than 27A shall be constructed using fires of smaller sizes (fires, frames and trays) see Table I.2.
The ends of the longitudinal sticks shall touch.
Table I.2 — Construction of class A test fires
Fire size Fire construction

5A 5A
8A 8A
13A 13A
21A 21A
27A 27A
34A 21A + 13A
43A 8A + 27A + 8A
55A 21A + 13A + 21A
To provide adequate support for the wooden sticks for fires larger than 13A, metal cross members shall be added
to the frame positioned as for 8A and 13A fires.
For example a 21A frame shall have cross members positioned 800 mm from each end.
The wooden sticks shall be of Pinus silvestris containing 10 % to 15 % of moisture by mass when determined in
accordance with Annex J. They shall be sawn and of square section of side (39 ± 2) mm. The density of the wood
shall be 0,40 kg/dm3 to 0,65 kg/dm3.
The wooden sticks shall be stacked in fourteen layers on the metal frame, as shown in Figures I.1 and I.2.
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35

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Dimensions in millimetres
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Figure I.1 — Example of class A fire (13 A fire) - Front view (identical for all fires)
36

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Figure I.2 — Example of class A fire (13 A fire) - Side view (variable according to size of fire)
The sticks in each layer shall be spaced at regular intervals with gaps of 6 cm between the sticks.
The sticks laid transversely (layers 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14) shall have a fixed length of (500 ± 10) mm.
The sticks laid longitudinally (layers 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11 and 13) shall have fixed lengths which vary according to the
test fire as given in Table I.1, with a tolerance of ± 10 mm.
NOTE When the test fire is constructed using smaller fires, the tolerance applies to the length of the individual sticks.
A fire size beyond 55A shall not be used (see Table I.1).
I.2.2 Test conditions
The test fire shall be located indoors in a test chamber and shall be sheltered from draughts. The ambient
temperature shall be between 0 °C and 30 °C.
The test chamber shall have the following characteristics:
 minimum height of the house (internal): 8 m;
 area: Around the class A frame there shall be a minimum distance of 3 m to the test house wall. (For example:
In the case of a 55A, the room shall have a minimum length of 11,5 m and a minimum breadth of 6,5 m);
 air and surrounding conditions: a) Minimum 02 concentration throughout the test at a height of between 0,8 m
and 1,5 m shall be 19 %. The measuring device shall be attached to the operator;
37
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
 the maximum air speed before ignition shall be 0,2 m/s measured above the centre of the frame at a height of
0,2 m for horizontal airspeed and at a height of 1 m above the uppermost stick in the crib. The measurement
has to be taken before the crib is ignited. During the test and for 3 min after the test no characteristics of
ventilation or airflow are allowed to change. The test starts by measurement of the air speed.
A metal lighting tray with a width of 600 mm and a depth of 100 mm shall be used. The length of the tray shall be
100 mm greater than the fire size.
In the case of multiple frames being used to construct the fire, it shall be permissible for the overall length to be
increased by 200 mm to 300 mm.
The lighting tray shall be placed symmetrically beneath the crib forming the test fire.
Water shall be added to the tray to a depth of 30 mm. Heptane of a quality identical to that used for the Class B
fires (in accordance with I.3.2) shall then be added, the quantity being sufficient to give a burning time of 2 min 30 s.
I.2.3 Test procedure
The heptane shall be ignited.
After the fire has burnt for 2 min, the tray shall be withdrawn from beneath the crib.
The crib shall then be permitted to burn for a further 6 min, making a total pre-test time of 8 min, at which point the
test fire can be considered to be established and extinction shall be commenced.
The operator shall then bring the extinguisher into use, and direct the jet onto the test fire while moving round it at
his own discretion in order to obtain the best result. The entire contents of the extinguisher may be discharged
either continuously or in successive bursts.
The maximum extinguishing time shall not exceed 5 min for fires up to and including 21A and 7 min for fires of a
greater size. The operator shall indicate when the extinguisher is fully discharged or when the fire is extinguished
within the permitted time.
In both cases the fire shall be observed for 3 min from that point. A new period of 3 min starts in the case of a
re-operation within the permitted time.
For the test to be deemed successful, all flames shall be extinguished and there shall be no recurrence of flames
during the 3 min observation period.
I.3 Class B fire tests
I.3.1 Characteristics of test fires
Class B test fires shall be made in a range of welded sheet steel circular trays, the dimensions of which are given in
Table I.3. The base shall be the same nominal thickness as the walls and the thickness tolerance of the base and
wall material shall conform to the relevant national standard. Stiffening bars or sections may be welded to the
underside of the base with a minimum distance of 200 mm between substantially parallel stiffeners. All tolerances
specified relate to the tray at its time of manufacture.
The trays shall contain water, overlaid with a layer of fuel (see I.3.2) in the following proportion: 1/3 water, 2/3 fuel.
The total volume of liquid in the tray shall be as specified in Table I.3, which will give a depth of water of
approximately 10 mm, and a depth of fuel approximately 20 mm.
The test fires are designated by a number (which indicates the fire size) followed by the letter B. The number
represents the volume of liquid, in litres, contained in the tray.
38
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
NOTE Each test fire is designated by a number in a series in which term is equal to the sum of the two preceding terms, i.e.
this is equivalent to a geometrical progression having a common ratio of about 1,62. The additional fires 70B, 113B, and 183B
represent the product of the preceding term and 1,62 .
The surface area of the tray in square decimetres is equal to the product of the test fire size and π.
A fire size beyond 233B shall not be used (see Table I.3).
Table I.3 — Construction of class B test fires
Designation Volume of Dimensions of tray

of test fire liquid
(1/3 water + Internal Depth Thickness Approximate Minimum
2/3 fuel) diameter at of walls area of fire duration of
rim operation
l mm mm mm m2 s
21B 21 920 ± 10 150 ± 5 2,0 0,66 6

34B 34 1 170 ± 10 150 ± 5 2,5 1,07 6
55B 55 1 480 ± 15 150 ± 5 2,5 1,73 9
70B 70 1 670 ± 15 150 ± 5 2,5 2,20 9
89B 89 1 890 ± 20 200 ± 5 2,5 2,80 9
113B 113 2 130 ± 20 200 ± 5 2,5 3,55 12
144B 144 2 400 ± 25 200 ± 5 2,5 4,52 15
183B 183 2 710 ± 25 200 ± 5 2,5 5,75 15
233B 233 3 000 ± 30 200 ± 5 2,5 7,32 15
The minimum height from the surface of the fuel to the rim of the tray shall be 100 mm for fires up and including
70B and 140 mm for fires of larger sizes.
The height from the ground to the rim of the tray shall not exceed 350 mm. The construction of the tray shall
prevent the flow of air under the tray, or sand or earth shall be built around the tray up to but not above the level of
the base.
After each test, a minimum of 5 mm of fuel shall remain.
For powder extinguishers, at least one fire in each series shall be successfully extinguished on a fresh water/fuel
filling for the rating to be accepted.
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For successive tests with CO2 type extinguishers only, fuel may be added to the existing test fire.
For water based extinguishers, fresh fuel and water shall be used for each test.
I.3.2 Test conditions
The ambient temperature shall be between 0 °C and 30 °C.
Class B Fire tests can be carried out indoors or outdoors.
39

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
For indoor fire tests the conditions shall be:
 the height of the test chamber (internal) shall be equal to or greater than 5 times the diameter of the test fire
tray;
 the area of the test chamber in square metres (m2) shall be equal to or greater that the test fire designation;
 each side of the test chamber shall be equal to or greater than 4 times the diameter of the test tray with a
minimum length of 7.5 m (see Table I.4);
 air and surrounding conditions shall be as defined for Class A fires.
Table I.4 — Minimum dimensions of test chambers
Minimum height Minimum side length Minimum ground area

(tray x 5) (tray x 4) and 7,5 m
Fire test B whichever is the
greatest
(m) (m) (m2)
233 15,2 12,2 233
183 13,5 10,8 183
144 12,0 9,6 144
113 10,6 8,5 113
89 9,4 7,5 89
70 8,3 7,5 70
55 7,4 7,5 56
34 5,8 7,5 56
21 4,6 7,5 56
For outdoor fire tests the wind speed shall not be greater than 3m/s.
The fuel for the class B test fires shall be industrial heptane which shall have the following characteristics:
 distillation curve: 84 °C to 105 °C;
 difference between initial and final points of distillation: ≤ 10 °C;
 aromatic content (V/V): ≤ 1 %;
 density at 15 °C 0,680 to 0,720.
I.3.3 Test procedure
The heptane shall be ignited and then be permitted to burn for 1 min, at which point the test fire can be considered
to be established and extinction shall commence within 10 s.
The operator shall then bring the extinguisher into use, and direct the jet onto the test fire while moving round at his
own discretion in order to obtain the best result. The entire contents of the extinguisher may be discharged either
continuously or in successive bursts.
40
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
The operator shall indicate when the extinguisher is fully discharged or when the fire is extinguished.
For the test to be deemed successful, all flames shall be extinguished.
41
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex J
(normative)
Measurement of moisture content of wood
NOTE See I.2.1.
The moisture content of wood shall be determined in accordance with ISO 4470. The measurements shall be made
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on at least 5 samples each (500 ± 10) mm long.
42

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex K
(normative)
Compaction procedure
NOTE See clause 5.
K.1 Apparatus
The compaction machine shall be designed to accept only one extinguisher at a time, which shall be raised by a
rod and guided by castors. The plate supporting the extinguisher shall be steel, (300 ± 5) mm square and
(60 ± 1) mm thick.
The compaction machine shall conform to the following:
 the rod shall be adjustable to adjust to the extinguisher base;
 the rod shall be able to move freely;
 the extinguisher shall be guided without constraint in the guide castors;
 the impact shall take place on the steel plate and not on the rod;
 the cam to be used is shown in Figure K.1.
K.2 Procedure
The extinguisher, in the condition in which it is put into service, i.e. filled and charged according to the
manufacturer’s instructions with the extinguishing agent specified by the manufacturer for use in that extinguisher,
and conditioned (20 ± 5) °C shall be subjected to the compaction procedure.
The extinguisher shall be held in the vertical position in the compaction machine and dropped vertically 500 times,
from a height of 15 mm, at a frequency of 1 Hz, onto a rigid horizontal steel plate.
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43

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
!Dimensions in millimetres
Thickness cam : 20 mm
Key
1 center of rotation"
Figure K.1 — Cam design for compaction machine
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44

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex L
(normative)
!Specific requirements for Class F fire extinguisher
L.1 General
Portable fire extinguishers for use on cooking oil fires shall have a class F test fire rating.
Powder and carbon dioxide fire extinguishers should not be used on Class F fires as their use on this type of fire is
considered hazardous. For this reason powder and carbon dioxide fire extinguishers shall neither be tested
according to this annex or marked with the "F" pictogram.
NOTE Extinguishers may also have class A and/or B fire ratings.
L.2 Class F test fire ratings
L.2.1 Class F fire rating
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Extinguishers shall have a class F fire rating in accordance with Table L.1 when tested in accordance with L.5.
Table L.1 — Fire rating minimum duration of operation and nominal charges for class F extinguishers
Rating Volume of cooking Test apparatus Nominal Minimum
oil in test fire permitted duration of
charges operations
(I) mm (I) s
5F 5 (+1 –0) See Figure L.2 2, 3 6
25F 25 (+1 –0) See Figure L.3: X = 578 Y = 289 2, 3, 6 9
40F 40 (+1 –0) See Figure L.3: X = 600 Y = 450 2, 3, 6, 9 12
75F 75 (+1 –0) See Figure L.3: X = 1 000 Y = 500 2, 3, 6, 9 15
45

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
L.3 Dielectric test

All extinguishers usable on class F purposes shall conform to the requirements of the dielectric test in Clause 9.
L.4 Pictogram
See Figure L.1.
L.5 Class F fire test
L.5.1 General
To carry out these tests, the operator shall be dressed in clothing suitable for the purpose. The use of a helmet,
gloves and approved non reflective visor shall be permitted. The operator shall not wear an aluminium-faced suit.
The ambient temperature of the test facility prior to ignition shall be between 0 °C and 30 °C.
Cartridge type extinguishers shall be pressurized prior to the end of the pre-combustion period.
L.5.2 Class F test fire
L.5.2.1 General
Method of fire fighting
The operator shall discharge the entire contents without interruption from a minimum distance as recommended by
the manufacturer on the label after the pre-burn time.
The attack shall take place from only one direction or side of the fire tray.
L.5.2.2 Apparatus
L.5.2.2.1 General
The cooking oil test fires shall be conducted using a steel tray to simulate a deep fat fryer.
L.5.2.2.2 5F Fire tray

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5F fire test tray, constructed of steel sheet, (2,0 ± 0,25) mm thick and (170 ± 10) mm deep and mounted on a
support structure (see Figure L.2).
L.5.2.2.3 25F, 40F and 75F fire test tray
25F, 40F and 75F fire test tray, constructed of steel sheet (2,0 ± 0,25) mm thick and (250 ± 10) mm deep (see
Figure L.3 and Table L.2). The tray shall have liquid-tight joints, and the reinforcing angle shall be continuous
around the perimeter of the tray to produce a turned-out edge level with the top of the tray. The width of the top
edge shall be 45 mm. The tray shall be mounted on a supporting structure which raises the top of the tray to a
height of (1 000 ± 12) mm above the floor.
L.5.2.2.4 Thermocouple
In order to monitor the oil temperature, a thermocouple shall be located (25 ± 5) mm below the oil surface (before
heating), but not closer than 75 mm to the test fire tray's walls.
46

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
L.5.3 Combustible oil
Pure edible vegetable oil, with an auto-ignition temperature range of between 330 °C and 380 °C.
L.5.4 Procedure
The test chamber shall have the following characteristics:
 minimum height of the house (internal): 8 m;
 area: Around the tray there shall be a minimum distance of 3 m to the test house wall. (For example: In the
case of a 75F, the room shall have a minimum length of 4,5 m and a minimum breadth of 3,5 m).
Heat the oil in the fire test tray using a suitable heating arrangement until non-piloted auto-ignition occurs.
Auto-ignition shall occur in a maximum time of 3,5 h from the start of heating of the apparatus.
When auto-ignition occurs

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+10
Turn off the heat source and allow to burn freely for (120 0 ) s before commencement of fire fighting.
After each test, clean the apparatus thoroughly and renew with fresh oil prior to subsequent fire testing.
NOTE Care should be taken to avoid the fuel vapours being ignited by the heat source before auto ignition occurs.
L.5.5 Fire test requirements/measurements
Portable fire extinguishers shall conform to the following requirements.
a) Burning material shall not be ejected.
b) The fire shall be extinguished and there shall be no re-ignition of the test fire, or any overflow of fuel during a
20 min period following the complete discharge of the extinguisher.
c) Oil shall remain in the tray at the end of the test to prove that extinguishment has occurred by application of the
extinguishant and not by oil starvation.
d) The oil temperature shall be monitored at auto-ignition.
e) Application of the media shall not cause enlargement of the flames.
NOTE Flames over 2 m in height constitute enlargement. Short term flame peaks (< 2 s in duration) above 2 m are
acceptable.
Video recording of the fire tests shall be carried to establish compliance with this requirement.
47

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Figure L.1 — Class F pictogram
Key
1 pan diameter
2 nominal wall thickness
3 skirt to suit burner type
4 burner
Figure L.2 — Fire test apparatus – 5F
48
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
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Key
1 tray to support gas burners (alternatively electric heating may be used)
2 skirts to contain flames for gas heating (to prevent pilot ignition)
3 distance to floor level
X internal length (see Table L.1)
Y internal width (see Table L.1)
Figure L.3 — Fire test apparatus – 25F, 40F and 75F"
49

BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Annex M
(normative)
!Polar solvents
M.1 General
This annex is to be used to provide the assurance that extinguishers have the capability of extinguishing fires
involving polar solvents.
Powder and CO2 extinguishers are considered suitable for this purpose and need not be subjected to the
requirements of this annex.
M.2 Characteristics of test fires (polar solvents)

Polar solvent test fire shall be made in a welded sheet steel circular tray, the dimensions of which are as follows:
Internal diameter mm 1 170 ± 10
Depth mm 150 ± 5
Thickness of walls mm 2,5
Approximate area of fire m2 1,07
(NOTE The above dimensions are of a 34B Fire Tray.)
The height from the ground to the rim of the tray shall not exceed 350 mm. The construction of the tray shall
prevent the flow of air under the tray or sand or earth shall be built around the tray up to but not above the level of
the base.
Fresh fuel shall be used for each test and the tray shall be cleaned and dried between tests.
M.3 Test conditions

The ambient temperature shall be between 10 °C and 20 °C.
The fuel temperature shall be (17,5 ± 2,5) °C.
The test fire shall be carried out indoors.
For indoor fire tests the conditions shall be:
 the height of the test chamber (internal) shall be equal to or greater than 5,8 m;
2
 the area of the test chamber in square metres (m ) shall be equal to or greater than 56 m2;
 each side of the test chamber shall be equal to or greater than 7,5 m.
Fuel shall be acetone minimum 99 % pure.
50
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
To carry out these tests the operator shall be dressed in clothing suitable for the purpose. The use of a helmet,
gloves and approved non-reflective visor shall be permitted. The operator shall not wear an aluminium-faced suit.
Cartridge type extinguishers shall be pressurised prior to the end of the pre-burn period.
M.4 Test procedure

The forty five litres (45 l) of fuel, with no water in the tray, shall be ignited and then permitted to burn for 2 min, at
which point the test fire can be considered to be established and extinction shall commence within 10 s.
The operator shall then bring the extinguisher into use and direct the discharge onto the test fire while moving
round at his own discretion in order to obtain the best result. The entire contents of the extinguisher may be
discharged either continuously or in successive bursts.
The operator shall indicate when the extinguisher is fully discharged or when the fire is extinguished.
M.5 Requirements
a) A portable fire extinguisher shall be deemed to satisfy these requirements when two test fires of a series of
three are extinguished. A test series is complete after three fires or when the first two fires have both been
extinguished or have both not been extinguished. Each test series shall be completed before the next is
commenced. There is no restriction on the number of series that may be carried out on the same type of
portable fire extinguisher without modifications, but a series shall consist of consecutive fires and results shall
not be ignored.
b) The fire shall be extinguished within 3 min of the end of the pre-burn time.
c) For the test to be deemed successful, all flames shall be extinguished."
51
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BS EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007
Bibliography
EN 615, Fire protection — Fire extinguishing media — Specifications for powders (other than Class D powders)
EN 25923, Fire protection — Fire extinguishing media — Carbon Dioxide (ISO 5923)
European Council Regulation 2037/2000
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52

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blank
BS EN
3-7:2004
+A1:2007 BSI — British Standards Institution
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Portable Fire Extinguishers - : Part 7: Characteristics, Performance Requirements and Test Methods

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BRITISH STANDARD BS EN

This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN 3-7:2004+A1:2007. It

Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication

ISBN 978 0 580 61919 9

Copyright British Standards Institution

ICS 13.220.10 Supersedes EN 3-7:2004