These are suitable for Class A fires, which involve solid materials such as wood, paper, and textiles. Water extinguishers work by cooling the burning material below its ignition point and prevents it from re-igniting. In areas with electrical equipment, it's advisable to opt for water fire extinguishers with ‘dry-additives’, these are added chemicals that reduce the risk of electrical shocks. A recent innovation is the 'dry' water mist extinguishers, which can tackle Class A, B, C, and F fires and are straightforward to use. These are suitable for buildings where it's not practical to train all occupants or staff in using extinguishers, such as in Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). However, for safety reasons, we advise against using water mist extinguishers for fires exceeding a 5F rating, which is approximately the size of a typical household deep fat fryer fire.
Fire Extinguishers Buying Guide
Fire extinguishers are a critical part of any business's fire safety measures. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, UK businesses are required to provide appropriate fire safety measures, which includes the provision and maintenance of suitable fire extinguishers. Non-compliance can lead to fines, prosecution, and could invalidate your insurance.
On-site fire extinguishers can help put out smaller fires, potentially preventing them from becoming larger, life-threatening incidents. By efficiently using and maintaining fire extinguishers, businesses can ensure the safety of their premises and people, while also reducing potential property damage and improving business continuity should a fire occur.
There are other benefits too. It demonstrates a commitment to a safe and well-run organisation. Visitors and staff who see that fire safety is being taken seriously will feel safer on your premises.
Choosing the right fire extinguisher for your business involves considering the type of business, size of the premises, and potential fire risks. A restaurant, for example, would need wet chemical extinguishers for kitchen fires, while an office might need CO2 extinguishers for potential electrical fires. Consider the size and weight of the extinguisher too, as larger units might be difficult for some individuals to operate. You should also consider the location and signposting of all fire fighting equipment on your premises as part of your risk assessment. By understanding your needs and the options available, you can ensure that your business is well-prepared for any fire emergencies.
Fire Classes
Fire risks are categorised by classes. Fire extinguishers are then rated according to their ability to fight these different fire classes. Fire-fighting capability is denoted by letters for fire class and a number for the strength of the extinguisher in fighting that class of fire. The higher the number, the stronger the extinguisher is.
Class A Fires
Solid combustibles, such as wood, paper, textiles
Class B Fires
Flammable liquids, such as petrol, diesel and paraffin
Class C Fires
Flammable gases, such as LPG and natural gas
Class D Fires
Flammable metals, such as magnesium swarf
Class F Fires
Cooking fats, such as deep fat fryers oils
Types of Fire Extinguishers and How They Work
Fire extinguishers in the UK are categorised based on the type of fire they're designed to combat. It's crucial to choose the right type of fire extinguisher based on your business's specific fire risks, which need to be properly assessed. Here are the common types:
Water Extinguishers (Red label)
Foam Extinguishers (Cream label)
They can tackle Class A and B fires (flammable liquids like petrol, paint, and solvents). They work by creating a cooling film on the surface of the burning material and cutting off the fire's oxygen supply. Foam extinguishers are commonly found in office settings because they provide a good range of fire cover and are cleaner to use compared to powder extinguishers. Foam extinguishers can be safely used on electrical items, provided they have been tested for 35kV and a minimum safety distance of 1 metre is maintained during use.
Dry Powder Extinguishers (Blue label)
These are also called ABC powder extinguishers. These are multi-purpose extinguishers, suitable for Class A, B, and C fires (gas fires). Special powder extinguishers can also tackle Class D fires (flammable metals). The powder interrupts the chemical reaction within the fire to extinguish it. These extinguishers are not suitable for fires involving fats or deep-fat fryers, as the force of their discharge could scatter the burning fat. They're also not to be used in tight spaces due to the risk of inhaling the powder. Additionally, the powder leaves a residue that can be challenging to clean up after use.
CO2 Extinguishers (Black label)
These are perfect for Class B 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 offices that have computer 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.
Wet Chemical Extinguishers (Yellow label)
These are designed specifically for Class F fires (cooking oils and fats). They work by creating a soapy layer on the surface of the burning oil, cutting off the oxygen supply, and cooling the oil below its ignition temperature. Wet Chemical extinguishers are typically used in professional kitchens, while the more multi-purpose ABC extinguishers can be used in domestic kitchens.
How to Use a Fire Extinguisher
The standard method of operating a fire extinguisher is the PASS technique:
Pull
Pull the safety pin at the top of the extinguisher
Aim
Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire from a safe distance
Squeeze
Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent
Sweep
Sweep the nozzle or hose from side to side at the base of the fire until it's out
Anyone discovering a fire should raise the alarm immediately and call 999. Always ensure you have a clear escape route before trying to fight a fire, and only fight a fire if you have been trained to do so. Everyone on site should understand fire safety protocol for your premises.
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance
In the UK, it's a requirement that fire extinguishers are maintained in a working order at all times and are regularly serviced by a competent person. The British Standards Institution (BS 5306-3) recommends a basic inspection be performed by the responsible person in your company at least once a month and a more thorough annual inspection by a professional.
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.
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.
Fire Extinguisher Regulations
In the UK, the primary legislation governing the provision and maintenance of fire extinguishers is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, often referred to as the RRO or FSO. This order requires businesses to adhere to several key points:
Risk Assessment
Every business must carry out a fire risk assessment of their premises. This assessment should identify any potential fire hazards and who may be at risk.
Fire Safety Measures
The Order requires appropriate fire safety measures to be in place to minimise the risk of injury or loss of life in the event of a fire. This includes the provision of suitable fire-fighting equipment, such as fire extinguishers. The equipment must be correctly positioned, properly maintained, and the staff should be trained in its use.
Maintenance
All fire safety equipment and systems should be regularly maintained to ensure they are in good working order. This includes fire extinguishers, which should be regularly inspected and serviced by a competent person.
Training
Employees should receive adequate fire safety training. This should include how to use fire extinguishers safely and correctly.
Additionally, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 also contains some general requirements which apply to fire safety:
Safety Duty
Employers have a general duty to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare at work of all their employees. This includes the provision of safe plant and systems, which would cover fire safety systems and equipment.
Information and Training
Employers must provide information, instruction, training, and supervision to ensure the safety of their employees. In the context of fire safety, this could include providing training on how to use fire extinguishers and what to do in the event of a fire.
Risk Reduction
Employers must also assess risks (including fire risks) to the health and safety of their employees and take practical measures to manage those risks. Prevention is better than cure.
By complying with these regulations, businesses can ensure they are meeting their legal obligations and providing a safe working environment. It's also important to note that non-compliance can lead to prosecution and fines, as well as potentially invalidating insurance policies.
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