FireTech FT916 5LB Fire Extinguisher Cabinet

The FireTech FT916 is a heavy-duty, surface-mounted storage solution specifically engineered to house and protect 2.5 lb and 5 lb fire extinguishers. In high-traffic commercial environments—such as school hallways, apartment complexes, and retail stockrooms—an exposed fire extinguisher is vulnerable to accidental impact, dust accumulation, and unauthorized tampering. The FT916 provides a secure, professional-grade enclosure that keeps your fire safety equipment visible and pristine while ensuring it remains 100% accessible during a fire emergency.

Constructed from 20-gauge galvanized steel and finished with a high-visibility white powder coat, the FT916 is built for both indoor and outdoor durability. Its scored polystyrene break-front allows for "no-tool" emergency access, while the integrated cylinder lock provides a layer of security against equipment theft or casual mischief.

The Engineering of Durability: Galvanization and Compliance

1. 20-Gauge Galvanized Shielding

Unlike "economy" plastic cabinets, the FT916 uses 20-gauge steel that has undergone a galvanization process (zinc-coating). This provides a dual layer of protection: the zinc acts as a sacrificial anode to prevent the steel from rusting, even if the outer powder coat is scratched. This makes the FT916 an ideal choice for humid parking garages or loading docks.

2. ADA Protrusion Limits

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), objects mounted on walls between 27 and 80 inches above the floor must not protrude more than 4 inches into a hallway. The FT916's slim depth requires careful placement to ensure "Path of Travel" compliance.

3. Scored Polystyrene Break-Front

The "glass" is actually a specialized polystyrene that is pre-scored. This ensures that in a panic, the front will break in a controlled, predictable manner without creating the dangerous shards associated with traditional window glass.

Why the FT916 is the "Property Manager's Choice"

• Keyed-Alike Cylinder Lock: In large facilities, maintaining unique keys is a nightmare. The FT916 uses keyed-alike cylinders, allowing a single master key held by the manager to open every cabinet for monthly inspection or annual maintenance.
• Vandalism Mitigation: Enclosing the unit significantly reduces "nuisance discharges." The physical barrier of the cabinet door, combined with the lock, acts as a psychological deterrent.
• Maintenance Efficiency: The white powder-coat finish resists the "yellowing" common in plastic cabinets. This ensures the facility maintains a professional appearance.

The FireTech FT916 is the primary specified choice for "Compact Hazard" zones where space is limited but fire protection equipment is mandatory:

• K-12 & University Hallways: Protecting 5 lb units from student traffic.
• Apartment & Condo Corridors: Providing a standardized, secure look for commercial fire extinguishers in common areas.
• Office Buildings: Mounting extinguishers in mechanical rooms and IT closets.
• Retail Stockrooms: Shielding extinguishers from dust and minor equipment impacts.

To maintain NFPA 10 compliance and ensure your facility passes its annual fire audit, installation must follow these protocols:

• Mounting Height: For extinguishers under 40 lbs, the top of the cabinet should be no more than 5 feet (60 inches) from the floor. This ensures that most individuals can safely reach the equipment.
• Visibility Requirements: The cabinet must remain clearly visible. If it is placed in an alcove, fire safety signs or "Projecting" signs should be mounted at a 90-degree angle above the cabinet.
• Inspection Access: The clear break-front window satisfies visibility requirements, allowing for "walk-by" monthly inspections. Technicians can easily check the fire extinguisher pressure gauge through the polystyrene front.

Will this cabinet fit a 10 lb fire extinguisher?
No. The FT916 is designed for 2.5 lb and 5 lb units. A commercial 10 lb fire extinguisher is too wide for this specific frame. For larger units, you should look at the FireTech FT926 series.

Is it safe for outdoor use?
Yes. Because it is made of galvanized steel, it has inherent resistance to rust. However, for extreme coastal environments, we recommend a fiberglass cabinet to prevent long-term oxidation.

How do I get the extinguisher out in an emergency?
In an emergency, the "Scored Front" is designed to be broken. You do not need a key to access the unit during a fire; the lock is strictly for maintenance access.

Where can I find cabinet maintenance supplies?
You can find replacement break-fronts and keys at specialized fire protection companies or a firefighter supply store.