The number of fire extinguishers required is dependant on a number of variables.

As a quick guide there should be a minimum of two per floor and these should be within a defined distance of where they may be used.

Section 8 of British Standard BS5306-8 Fire Extinguishing Installations and Equipment on Premises details the minimum number of class A fire extinguishers as –

• Floors of less than 400 Sqm: at least two extinguishers with a class A rating with a combined total of 26A per floor
• Floors of more than 400 Sqm: at least two fire extinguisher with a class A rating. Giving a total combined fire rating of 0.065 x total Sqm of floor area.

A 500 Sqm floor will work out as 0.065 x 500 =an A rating of 32.5 meaning a three fire extinguishers may be required based on an extinguisher having a 13A rating.

Understanding what fire extinguishers you need requires a certain amount of expertise. Our fire extinguisher audit service will provide you with recommendations of what you need and where they should be located.

Get in touch today to book your audit: Call 0800 246 1802

The location of fire extinguishers is dependant on a number of variables.

However, as a quick guide extinguishers should be located: -

• in conspicuous positions using brackets, stands or cabinets
• At room exits, in corridors, stairwell lobbies and landings
• At the same location on each floor
• Near to specific fire risks
• and at fire safety points

Understanding where fire extinguishers should be placed requires a certain amount of expertise. Our fire extinguisher audit service will provide you with recommendations of what you need and where they should be located.

Get in touch today to book your audit: Call 0800 246 1802

Annual inspection

All fire extinguishers should be commissioned by a qualified technician before installation. Failure to commission a fire extinguisher correctly may result in the appliance not working correctly when most needed

In most cases fire extinguishers will need a basic annual service by a qualified technician. Inspections will include: -

• Checks for damage or signs of deterioration
• Weight checks to ensure there is no loss of contents
• Removal of hoses/horns and replacement of seals
physical checks of gauges to ensure they are working correctly

Most extinguishers, except Co2, require an extended service every 5 years.

Co2 Extinguishers will need a 'Stretch Test' every 10 years. This cannot be done without specialist equipment; as sush these are usually replaced

Fire extinguishers need servicing or replacement? We can provide provide you with recommendations of what you need.

Get in touch today to book your service: Call 0800 246 1802

User Checks

The responsible person or the person in charge of fire safety for the premises should also be completing weekly inspections. Inspections should include: -

• Extinguishers are located correctly and have not been moved
• Extinguisher is accessible and ready for use
• Gauges, where fitted, indicate the correct pressure
• Extinguishers are free of damage and have not been abused
• Extinguishers have not been discharged

Weekly checks should be recorded in the Fire Safety Log Book for the property.

Fire Extinguisher Types & Uses

There are 4 common types of fire extinguishers used in most properties. these are: -

Water

The most common of fire extinguishers it is used on paper, wood, natural fabrics etc; any carboniferous material. Has Red identification strip if not a standard red extinguisher.

Water based fire extinguishers are not safe to use on electrical equipment; some versions may be tested for accidental use on electrical's.

Foam (AFFF)

Increasingly popular being able to use it like water extinguishers and for use on flammable liquid fires. Has a Cream Identification Strip.

Foam based fire extinguishers are not safe to use on electrical equipment; some versions may be tested for accidental use on electrical's.

Co2

Probably the second most common type of fire extinguisher it main use is for electrical fires but can also be used on flammable liquids. Has a Black identification Strip.

Co2 is a gas that removes the oxygen from a fire so should not be used in enclosed spaces. It is also very cold and may cause burns if directed at the skin.

Powder (ABC)

Increasingly common and can be used on all types of fires but often installed incorrectly. Has a Blue identification Strip.

Current British Standards state these should not be placed/used in enclosed spaces; once activated visibility is greatly compromised.