The U.S. Department of Labor and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service outline regulations for fire extinguishers on construction sites and vehicles. Individual pieces of equipment that are not vehicles are subject to the regulations of the construction site. Vehicles have regulations based on their size, outlined by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Part 243 FW-1.
Constuction Sites
The U.S. Department of Labor's fire protection code 1926.150 outlines requirements for fire protection procedures and placement of fire extinguishers on a construction site. Employers are responsible for maintaining equipment, such as fire extinguishers, and for training employees on their use. There is no requirement listed for individual pieces of construction equipment, but section c-1-i indicates that a fire extinguisher rated not less than 2A must be provided for each 3,000 square feet of a protected area with a travel distance not exceeding 100 feet.
Motor Vehicles
Light Duty Motor Vehicles (less than 10,000 pounds) must be equipped with a minimum 2 1/2 lb. fire extinguisher, ABC type, rated at 1A:10BC. Local managers can use their discretion with vehicles less than 10,000 pounds with regard to fire extinguisher type.
Motor Vehicles weighting between 10,000 and 26,000 pounds must have a 2 1/2 lb., ABC type fire extinguisher rated at 1A:10BC.
Heavier vehicles (as outlined by the Part 243 FW-1 statute) require a 5 lb., ABC type fire extinguisher.
Combustible Environments
Heavy duty motor equipment used in combustible environments or where heat or sparks are generated must have a fire extinguisher that is a minimum of 10 lb., ABC type, rated at 4:A:60BC.
On a job site, a fire extinguisher rated a minimum of 10B has to be placed on a motor vehicle within 50 feet of any location where more than 5 gallons of flammable or combustible liquids or gas are being used. This requirement does not include the regular, internal fuel tank of motor vehicles.
Securing a Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher must be secured by a harness, strap or cage to protect the occupants of a vehicle.
Read More: Fire Extinguisher Training Requirements