Definition
Fire classes are the European classification system — Class A (solid combustibles), Class B (flammable liquids), Class C (flammable gases), Class D (combustible metals), and Class F (cooking oils and fats) — used to categorise fires by fuel type. Selecting the correct fire extinguisher requires matching the extinguishing agent to the fire class present in the premises, as specified in BS 5306-8.
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View training courseEvery portable fire extinguisher is designed to tackle specific types of fire. Using the wrong extinguisher — such as water on a flammable liquid fire, or water on live electrical equipment — can cause the fire to spread or create an electrocution hazard. The European fire class system provides a standardised framework for categorising fires by the type of material burning, making it straightforward to match the correct extinguishing agent to the risk.
"Electrical fire" is not an official fire class — it describes a fire in which live electrical equipment is involved or adjacent. The underlying fire is usually Class A or B. The concern is the risk of electrocution to the user. CO2 and dry powder extinguishers are non-conductive and safe to use near live electrical equipment up to 1,000 V (CO2) or 1,000 V (dry powder) according to BS EN 3. Water and foam must never be used on live electrical equipment.
Under BS 5306-8, fire extinguishers must be selected to cover the fire risks present in the premises. In most offices and commercial buildings, a combination of water or foam extinguishers (for Class A) and CO2 extinguishers (for electrical risks) is the standard provision. Commercial kitchens require a wet chemical extinguisher for Class F risk alongside CO2 for electrical equipment.
The number and rating of extinguishers required depends on the floor area and risk category of the premises — a risk assessment and selection exercise by a competent person, qualified to the BFC EAL Level 3 Fire Extinguisher standard, ensures the correct provision.
Fire classes are the European classification system — Class A (solid combustibles), Class B (flammable liquids), Class C (flammable gases), Class D (combustible metals), and Class F (cooking oils and fats) — used to categorise fires by fuel type. Selecting the correct fire extinguisher requires matching the extinguishing agent to the fire class present in the premises, as specified in BS 5306-8.
Requirements for fire classes in the UK depend on the type of premises and applicable legislation, including the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and relevant British Standards. The responsible person for a premises must ensure adequate fire safety provisions are in place. The British Fire Consortium can provide guidance — contact our team or search our member directory to find a qualified specialist.
Fire Classes and CO2 Fire Extinguisher are related fire safety concepts but serve different purposes. See our individual glossary entries for detailed definitions. For expert guidance on which applies to your premises, consult a BFC member company.
The British Fire Consortium offers EAL Level 3 accredited training covering fire safety systems including topics related to fire classes. Our courses are the only nationally recognised Level 3 qualifications across all fire disciplines. View our training courses or use the member directory to find a qualified trainer near you.
