Class E Fire

Why India Should Also Consider Class E Fire Safety: The Overlooked Electrical Hazard

In India, most industries and construction projects follow the conventional fire classifications: Class A (ordinary combustibles), B (flammable liquids), C (gases), and D (metals). However, Class E fires, which refer to electrical fires, are not distinctly recognized in Indian fire codes, despite being a major cause of industrial and commercial fire incidents.

At Wedge India, where we design cutting-edge insulation and safety solutions, we believe it’s time for India to formally include Class E fire safety in its building and fire safety regulations.

⚡ What Is a Class E Fire?

A Class E fire involves energized electrical equipment—circuit breakers, transformers, cables, panels, and heavy machinery. The risk lies in electric current itself, which can spark, short-circuit, and ignite surrounding materials.

In countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, electrical fires are distinctly classified as Class E to ensure proper awareness and tailored firefighting response.

🔍 Why Class E Fires Deserve Special Attention in India

1. ⚠️ Rising Electrical Load in Buildings

With India rapidly urbanizing, most commercial and residential structures are loaded with electrical systems: HVAC units, elevators, server racks, and EV charging points—all of which increase the risk of Class E fire.

2. 🏭 Industrial Automation & Machinery

Manufacturing facilities and data centers are heavily dependent on machines and power control systems. One arc fault or thermal overload can trigger fires that water extinguishers cannot safely tackle.

3. 🧯 Wrong Firefighting Approach

Many electrical fires are worsened by using water or foam extinguishers, which can cause electrical shock or spread the fire. Class E fires need dry chemical or CO₂ extinguishers, and clear safety protocols.

4. 🏗️ Lack of Fireproofing in Electrical Zones

From cable trays and switchgear rooms to server farms, many Indian structures lack proper fire-rated enclosures or insulation. Recognizing Class E fire risk would prompt the adoption of advanced fireproofing materials like intumescent coatings and non-conductive barriers.

🛡️ How Wedge India Supports Class E Fire Safety

At Wedge India, we’re committed to future-ready safety. Here’s how we help clients mitigate electrical fire risks:

• WedgeCoat FX – Fire-resistant coating for walls and equipment rooms

• WedgeWrap Non-Conductive Insulation – Ideal for electrical ducting and cable trays

• WedgeShield Fire Panels – For fire-rated enclosures around switchboards and UPS systems

• Technical Advisory – We help design electrical zones that meet both insulation and fire safety standards

🏁 Final Thoughts: Time for India to Upgrade Its Fire Classification System

As India's infrastructure becomes more energy-intensive and digital, acknowledging Class E fires as a standalone risk is no longer optional—it's essential. With clear classification, industries can adopt the right extinguishing methods, safer designs, and smarter materials.

At Wedge India, we urge stakeholders, regulators, and builders to modernize India’s fire safety framework—and we’re ready with the solutions to make that possible.

🔗 Explore our fire-resistant solutions at www.wedge-india.com or contact us to secure your site against Class E fire risks.