In fire safety, what does the term 'Class C' refer to?

The term 'Class C' specifically refers to electrical fires in fire safety classifications. This classification is crucial because electrical fires often require different extinguishing methods compared to other types of fires. For instance, using water to extinguish an electrical fire can be extremely dangerous due to the risk of electrocution. Instead, Class C fires are typically addressed with non-conductive extinguishing agents, such as carbon dioxide or dry chemical extinguishers, which effectively suppress the fire without conducting electricity.

Understanding the properties and characteristics of Class C fires is vital for anyone working in environments where electrical equipment is present. It ensures that the correct safety protocols and equipment are utilized to prevent injury and effectively manage potential fire hazards.