What Is The Difference Between Steel and Aluminium Extinguishers?

Aluminium extinguishers are typically able withstand higher pressues than steel, and are also slightly more lightweight.

How Can This Extinguisher Be Identified?

CO2 fire extinguishers feature a black label. It is critical that each fire extinguisher can be quickly and clearly identified in the event of a fire. That’s why we provide a quality Fire Extinguisher ID sign FREE with every extinguisher to help you meet obligations more easily and for less cost. This extinguisher also features colour coded headers and handles for additional ease of identificaion.

What Type Of Fire Can This Be Used On?

These are perfect for Class B (flammable liquid) and live electrical fires. They work by displacing the oxygen in the fire and removing the heat with a very cold discharge. These extinguishers are typically placed alongside foam extinguishers in a wide range of environments that have live electrical equipment. The size of the CO2 units is specified in kilograms, referring to the amount of CO2 gas they contain, with portable versions weighing either 2 kg or 5 kg.

What Is The Lifespan Of A Fire Extinguisher?

UK fire safety regulations suggest that fire extinguishers should be replaced or undergo an extended service every 5 years. CO2 fire extinguishers, on the other hand, should be replaced every 10 years. However, there are conditions to this. Fire extinguishers must have been well-maintained and fully operational. This includes conducting monthly visual checks and an annual inspection by a qualified fire extinguisher engineer. No extinguisher should exceed 20 years in use. If the fire extinguisher is damaged or in any way not fit for use, it needs to be serviced or replaced immediately. The same applies if it has been discharged; it must be replaced without delay.

How Often Should I Inspect A Fire Extinguisher?

Monthly Fire Extinguisher Inspections

Each month, you should conduct a visual inspection of your fire extinguishers. Here's what to look for:

• Signs of damage such as corrosion or leakage, or evidence that the fire extinguisher has been interfered with.
• Issues with the hose or nozzle, such as cracks, blockages, or tears
• Absent or broken locking pins, seals, and tamper indicators
• A damaged or loose handle
• A missing service label. Ensure all labels and tags on fire extinguishers are readable and if the last service was over a year ago, arrange one immediately.
• Don't forget to document your monthly checks
• Ensure the pressure gauge is in the green zone and lift the extinguisher to make sure it feels full
• Check that fire extinguishers are easily visible, not blocked, and the operating instructions are clean and facing outwards. You should also check they are clearly signposted and accessible

Annual fire extinguisher inspections

A qualified fire extinguisher engineer should conduct an annual fire extinguisher inspection. They’ll conduct a full maintenance check with detailed examination, and, if necessary, carry out repairs in line with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and BS5306 guidelines. After passing its annual service, the fire extinguisher will be tagged and dated. If the extinguisher cannot be adequately repaired so it is in good working order, it must be replaced.

Note that a competent fire extinguisher engineer will not only service the equipment but also assess its placement to ensure it's still correctly positioned and installed on its stand. They will evaluate how fire extinguishers are arranged and whether that's still suitable for the hazards in that area. It's recommended to engage a BAFE registered engineer for your fire extinguisher inspection. BAFE is the independent certification registration organisation for the fire protection industry, and they validate a business's ability to provide fire protection services. This way, you can be sure the engineer is fully competent and meets all the relevant standards.

Remember, it is a legal requirement to keep records of all fire extinguisher inspections, servicing, and maintenance.

In addition to maintaining extinguishers, you should ensure that your fire risk assessment is up to date, with no unresolved actions from your most recent audit. It's crucial that all employees know about any existing fire safety plans and procedures, including the location of fire extinguishers, escape routes, and assembly points. Regular fire drills and fire alarm tests should be conducted to ensure staff are familiar with escape paths and their specific roles. You should regularly check your fire and emergency safety signs to ensure all are present, correct and offering sufficient guidance.

Every workplace will have its unique set of fire safety measures and plans, all employees and visitors should be clear on what to do in the event of a fire on your premises.