UL 299: Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers
Construction and performance requirements for UL Listed dry chemical extinguishers
Last updated: September 21, 2025
Contents
Overview
UL 299 is the standard for dry chemical fire extinguishers, covering construction and performance requirements exclusive of fire test performance.
Note: You may see this standard referenced as both "UL 299" and "ANSI/UL 299". The ANSI prefix means it's been approved by the American National Standards Institute. However, fire extinguisher labels simply show "UL Listed" because that's what consumers recognize and trust.
The current edition (Edition 12) was published December 18, 2024, and represents the industry benchmark for dry chemical fire extinguisher certification in North America. The Canadian equivalent standard is CAN/ULC-S504.
Scope & Coverage
UL 299 applies to the following types of fire extinguishers:
- Portable dry chemical fire extinguishers for manual operation
- Dry powder (Class D) fire extinguishers for metal fires
- Wheeled dry chemical extinguishers for industrial applications
- Fire extinguishers intended for installation in vehicles
- Components including cylinders, valves, gauges, handles, and nozzles
Note: Fire performance testing is covered separately under UL 711.
Key Requirements
- Construction: Cylinders must meet DOT or Transport Canada specifications for pressure vessels
- Valves: Must operate reliably and prevent inadvertent discharge
- Pressure Gauges: Required on stored-pressure models with clear charge indicators
- Discharge Nozzles: Must control agent flow and pattern effectively
- Extinguishing Agents: Must meet chemical composition and moisture content specifications
- Labeling: Clear instructions, hazard warnings, and UL mark requirements
- Temperature Range: Must function from -40°F to 120°F (-40°C to 49°C)
Testing Procedures
UL 299 requires extensive testing to ensure safety and reliability:
- Hydrostatic Pressure Test: Cylinders tested at specified pressures to verify integrity
- Discharge Duration: Verification of minimum discharge times based on capacity
- Temperature Cycling: Performance testing through extreme temperature ranges
- Vibration Testing: Ensures components withstand transportation and handling
- Salt Spray Corrosion: Validates corrosion resistance of metallic components
- Impact Testing: Drop tests to verify structural integrity
- Valve Leakage: Testing for seal integrity and pressure retention
Compliance & Certification
To achieve UL 299 certification, manufacturers must:
- Submit products for testing at UL-approved laboratories
- Pass all construction and performance requirements
- Undergo factory inspections and quality control audits
- Maintain ongoing compliance through follow-up services
- Display UL Listed mark with appropriate ratings
- Provide clear labeling with operating instructions and safety warnings
The UL Listed mark indicates compliance with both UL 299 construction standards and UL 711 fire performance requirements.
UL 299 Listed Fire Extinguishers (5)
Buckeye ABC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher w/ Vehicle Bracket – 2.5 lb.
$46.00
Buckeye ABC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher w/ Vehicle Bracket – 5 lb.
$58.00
Buckeye ABC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher w/ Wall Hook – 10 lb.
$84.00
Buckeye ABC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher w/ Wall Hook – 20 lb.
$155.00
Buckeye ABC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher w/ Wall Hook – 5 lb.
$55.00