ADR Guidelines for Firefighting Equipment in Vehicles

Understanding the firefighting equipment requirements for dangerous goods vehicles is fundamental to both safety and compliance. As a driver transporting hazardous materials, having the right fire extinguishers and knowing how to use them could make the difference between a minor incident and a major emergency.

Basic Requirements for All Vehicles

Every vehicle carrying dangerous goods must carry at least one portable fire extinguisher suitable for fighting a fire in the engine or cab of the vehicle. This extinguisher should have a minimum capacity of 2 kg of dry powder (or equivalent). While this might seem like a small amount, dry powder is remarkably effective at tackling the types of fires most commonly encountered with vehicle fires.

Vehicle Size Determines Equipment Needs

The size of your vehicle directly affects the firefighters equipment you need to carry. For vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes maximum permissible mass, you’ll need the basic 2 kg extinguisher for the cab plus an additional 2 kg extinguisher. However, for vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes, the requirements increase significantly—you’ll need the 2 kg cab extinguisher plus additional extinguishers totalling 8 kg, with at least one being 6 kg in size.

Larger vehicles over 7.5 tonnes face the most stringent requirements, needing the 2 kg cab extinguisher plus additional extinguishers totalling 12 kg, again with at least one being 6 kg or larger.

Maintaining Your Equipment

Fire extinguishers aren’t just a tick-box exercise; they need to be properly maintained and readily accessible. All extinguishers must be sealed to prevent accidental discharge, but they should also be positioned where you can quickly reach them in an emergency. Regular checks should ensure the safety pins are intact, pressure gauges (if fitted) show adequate pressure, and there’s no visible damage or corrosion.

Small Load Exemptions

If you’re carrying dangerous goods under the small load threshold or only carrying infectious substances, the requirements are less onerous—you only need one 2 kg dry powder extinguisher or equivalent. However, it’s worth remembering that this is a minimum requirement, and carrying additional firefighting equipment is often prudent.

Type of Extinguisher

Dry powder extinguishers are specified because they’re versatile and effective against multiple fire types. They can tackle Class A fires (involving solid materials), Class B fires (involving flammable liquids), and Class C fires (involving gases). This versatility is essential when transporting dangerous goods where the exact nature of any fire might not be immediately apparent.

Training and Familiarisation

Having the right equipment is only half the battle; knowing how to use it effectively is equally important. The ADR core training module includes practical instruction on fire extinguisher use, but it’s worth regularly refreshing your knowledge. Remember the PASS technique (pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep) and always assess the situation before attempting to fight any fire.

Regular Inspections

Your fire extinguishers should be professionally inspected annually, with the inspection date clearly marked on the equipment. Between inspections, conduct regular visual checks to ensure the extinguishers are in good condition and properly mounted. Pay particular attention to the pressure gauge if fitted; the needle should be in the green zone.

Remember, while these requirements might seem extensive, they’re designed with your safety in mind. Fire extinguishers are your first line of defence in an emergency, and having the right equipment, properly maintained and readily accessible, could be crucial in preventing a minor incident from becoming a major disaster.