What are the Rules for Fire Extinguishers in Vehicles and Boats?

Below is an extract from the HOFFE Standard NZS4503:2005 relating to size, number and distribution of fire extinguishers in vehicles and pleasure craft.

This table 3.4 has the minimum rating that is required to meet the HOFFE standard, we would always recommend to go with a higher rating extinguisher than the required minimum. We also recommend installing an extinguisher that is fitted with a hose as this will give better access to tight areas like the engine bay.

This is table 3.4 from HOFFE Standard NZS4503:2005 It is for the minimum rating, classification and number of fire extinguishers for vehicles/vessels

Note: In some circumstances, more stringent requirements may be set by the appropriate regulatory authority.

Type of vehicle / vessel	Minimum rating and classification	Minimum number of Fire extinguishers
Sedan, station wagon, panel van or utility	1A:5B	1
Caravan / Campervan Single compartment Multi compartment	1A:5B 1A:5B	1 2
Pleasure Craft: 6m or less More than 6m	1A:10B 2A:20B	1 1
Passenger-carrying vehicle	2A:20B (fitted with hose)	1
Cargo-carrying vehicle	1A:10B (fitted with hose)	1 in cabin (additional fire extinguishers appropriate to the cargo and in accordance with the relevant regulations)

NOTE-

Refer to the definition of hazard in 1.4.
For pleasure craft greater than 6m in length additional fire extinguishers may be warranted.
This general guidance does not replace other rules, regulations and codes of practice that deal with specific types of vehicles, commercial ships and watercraft.

Installation and accessibility

Fire extinguishers are to be securely fixed, supported by mounting brackets (preferably metal) and located to enable safe access in an emergency, to withstand the forces that result from vehicle or pleasure craft vibration, movement, impact or braking and prevent accidental release from the bracket.

Fire extinguishers shall be mounted in a readily accessible location that will not be readily blocked.

In a recreational vehicle, such as a campervan/caravan, this should be as near to the primary access as possible.

In a passenger service vehicle for more than 12 passengers, a fire extinguisher shall be located near the driver, visible to passengers. Refer to LTSA rule 31001 Passenger Service Vehicles 1999.

In pleasure craft, fire extinguishers should be positioned outside the engine space and adjacent to the galley, preferably in a protected position where they can be reached from the open deck.

When installing brackets on vehicles or pleasure craft the mounting surfaces shall be adequate for the load imposed. This is particularly important where fire extinguishers are externally mounted, e.g. on goods vehicles, logging trucks etc.

Selection Factors

For all vehicles such as a car or caravan and pleasure craft and the like, it is stressed that a fire extinguisher is provided only for the initial stages of a fire. To gain better access to restricted locations, consideration shall be given to the provision of a fire extinguisher fitted with a hose.(see table 3.4).

Cargo-carrying vehicles

For commercial vehicles, consideration shall be given to the type of vehicle, the cargo being carried and the requirements of the regulatory authority. Every fire extinguisher for use in commercial cargo carrying vehicles shall be of a type fitted with a hose to assist in gaining better access to restricted locations. (see table 3.4)

Recreational vehicles and vessels

In pleasure craft and recreational vehicles where cooking appliances (using cooking oils and fats) are installed, an appropriate Class F fire extinguisher or fire blanket is recommended in addition to the fire extinguishers specified in table 3.4

Consideration should be given to a fire extinguisher with a Class E rating for vehicles where 230V a.c. power can be connected.