What must be provided at each permanent electrical installation?

In permanent electrical installations, it is essential to ensure safety and preparedness for potential fire hazards associated with electrical equipment and systems. The requirement for two portable fire extinguishers is grounded in the principle of enhancing safety measures. Having two fire extinguishers ensures that there is backup during an emergency, increasing the likelihood that at least one extinguisher will be accessible and operable.

The rationale behind this requirement is to mitigate risks in the event of electrical fires, which can be sudden and unpredictable. With two extinguishers available, it allows for one to be used while the other remains accessible for assistance or a secondary effort in suppressing a fire. Moreover, having extinguishers in multiple locations within the installation can improve rapid response times, which is crucial during emergencies.

In contrast, having only one portable fire extinguisher might limit effectiveness, especially in larger installations or areas with complex electrical systems where the risk might be more pronounced. A fire hose, while useful, does not meet the same specific needs as the portable extinguishers, which are designed to tackle electrical fires directly and are more convenient for individual first responders or employees to use immediately.