Fire extinguisher FAQs

Fire extinguishers are a legal requirement for all non-domestic premises in England and Wales, but how much do you know about them? The answers to our most frequently asked questions should tell you all you need to know.

Fire extinguisher FAQs

Are fire extinguishers required by law?

In England and Wales, it’s a legal requirement to have fire extinguishers in non-domestic premises under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO). The RRO includes guidance on how many fire extinguishers a business should have.

What is the minimum legal requirement for fire extinguishers?

The UK fire extinguisher standards (BS 5306-8) recommend a minimum of two ‘Class A’ extinguishers on every storey of your premises. Class A fire extinguishers put out wood, paper or fabric fires.

Depending on your business’s equipment and fire risk, you may also need other types.

What are the different types of fire extinguishers?

There are five types of fire extinguishers:

1. Water – for fires involving wood, paper and textiles
2. Foam – for fires involving wood, paper, textiles and flammable liquids
3. Dry powder – for fires involving wood, paper, textiles, flammable liquids and gases, and electrical fires
4. CO2 – for fires involving flammable liquids and electrical fires
5. Wet chemical –for fires involving wood, paper, textiles and cooking oils and fats

What happens if you use the wrong fire extinguisher?

Using the wrong extinguisher could worsen the fire worse. It could cause electrical shock, explosion, or fire spread.

How long do fire extinguishers last?

The average lifespan of a water, foam or powder extinguisher is usually between 10 and 12 years. CO2 extinguishers require overhauling or replacing every 10 years.

How often should fire extinguishers be inspected?

The frequency of fire extinguisher inspections should be as follows:

Monthly: Visual inspection to ensure the extinguisher is accessible, full, and in good condition.

Annually: Basic fire extinguisher service to inspect the gauges, pins, hose, and tags to ensure they are working, check the weight and pressure, and look for any visual signs of damage.

Every five years: Extended fire extinguisher service for powder, water and foam extinguishers, where the extinguisher is discharged, internally inspected and refilled.

Every 10 years: All CO2 extinguishers must undergo an overhaul involving hydraulic testing of the extinguisher body and replacing the main valve.

Can fire extinguishers be reused?

Some fire extinguishers can be refilled after use. However, only a qualified professional should recharge a fire extinguisher.

If you have any further questions regarding fire extinguishers or need a survey of your premises and an assessment of your fire extinguisher requirements, please call us on 01392 368830 or complete our contact form.

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admin@tamarsecurity.com

01392 368830

Tamar Security Ltd
Ulysses Park
Heron Road
Exeter
Devon
EX2 7PH