Q: Our hospital is wondering if it is a requirement to have fire extinguishers in our linen/trash chute room? If so where can I find the code reference?
A: No… it is not a requirement to have portable fire extinguishers inside the trash/linen discharge room, or the trash collection room. However, it is a requirement to have a properly classified fire extinguisher within the maximum travel distance for that extinguisher and the level of hazard it is intended to handle from everywhere in the facility, which would include the trash collection room. The extinguisher would have to be a Class A:B and located within the maximum travel distance for a Class A:B (probably 75 feet).
Brad Keyes, CHSP, is the owner of KEYES Life Safety Compliance, and his expertise is in the management of the Life Safety Program, including the Environment of Care and Emergency Management programs.
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