Maximum height for extinguishers weighing greater than 40 pounds.

• A. 4' or 48"
• B. 2' or 24"
• C. 5' or 60"
• D. 3.5' or 42"

Answer: (D)

The main idea is accessibility and safe handling of portable extinguishers, which depends on the weight of the unit. Heavier extinguishers lend themselves to being mounted lower so that someone can reach and operate the lever without having to lift the full weight overhead. For extinguishers weighing more than 40 pounds, the maximum mounting height is 3.5 feet (42 inches) from the floor to the top of the extinguisher. This keeps the unit within a comfortable reach for most people, reducing strain and the risk of dropping or mishandling it in an emergency.

Choosing a height higher than 42 inches, like 48 inches or 60 inches, would place a heavy extinguisher out of reach for many users and hinder quick, effective use. A height as low as 24 inches is unnecessarily low for most wall locations and could create clearance or visibility issues. So 42 inches provides the best balance between accessibility and safety for heavier extinguishers.