How Often Should a Fire Extinguisher Be Serviced?
Ensuring the safety of your employees, customers, and property is paramount for any business owner. A critical component of workplace safety is the proper fire extinguisher servicing. Regular servicing of fire extinguishers not only ensures functionality during emergencies, but also keeps your business compliant with UK fire safety regulations.
Legal Requirements for UK Fire Extinguisher Servicing
In the United Kingdom, the maintenance of fire extinguishers is governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This legislation mandates that all fire safety equipment including fire extinguishers must be kept in efficient working order and good repair. Failure to comply can result in severe penalties and increased liability in the event of a fire.
How Often Should Fire Extinguisher Testing Occur?
According to British Standard 5306-3, which outlines best practices for the maintenance of portable fire extinguishers, the following servicing intervals are recommended:
Monthly visual inspections are crucial. Conducted by the business owner or a designated representative, these inspections aim to identify any obvious signs of damage, tampering, or discharge.
Key aspects to check include:
- The extinguisher is in its designated place.
- Clear and legible operating instructions.
- Unobstructed and visible pressure gauge indicating the correct pressure.
- Intact seals and tamper indicators.
- No visible signs of corrosion or damage.
Testing fire extinguishers on a regular basis and looking for these key indicators helps to ensure that extinguishers are ready for use at all times.
Furthermore, a thorough examination should be performed every 12 months by a competent and professional individual, such as a certified fire safety technician. This comprehensive fire extinguisher service will include:
- Detailed inspection of all components.
- Verification of the internal condition and refilling if necessary.
- Replacement of defective parts.
- Updating service records and tagging the extinguisher to indicate the date of the last service.
Contacting a certified professional from reliable companies such as FireCare ensures that the fire extinguisher maintenance meets the required standards. This means that any potential issues are promptly addressed to prevent disaster and equipment failure.
Additionally, extended servicing should be carried out every 5 or 10 Years.
The period between servicing depends on the type of extinguisher. If it is a water, foam or powder extinguisher, these should be serviced every 5 years. If the fire extinguisher is a CO₂ model, then these should occur every 10 years.
Overall, this service involves a more in-depth examination, including pressure testing and refilling to ensure the extinguisher’s integrity and functionality over time.
The Importance of BAFE Accreditation
The British Safety Council highlights the importance of selecting a qualified and accredited fire safety service provider is crucial. The British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE) offers third-party certification schemes that assess the competency of fire protection companies. Utilising a BAFE-certified provider ensures that your fire extinguisher maintenance complies with current UK standards and best practices.
Read up on FireCare’s BAFE accreditation here.
Choose FireCare for Comprehensive Fire Extinguisher Services
Regular servicing of fire extinguishers is not just a regulatory obligation but a vital practice to safeguard your business and its occupants. By adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule and employing certified professionals, you ensure compliance with UK fire safety laws and contribute to a safer working environment.
Get in touch today to book an annual fire extinguisher service with FireCare. We will service your extinguishers at a convenient date and time for you, carrying out vital fire extinguisher maintenance. Ensure the security of your employees and business today and stay compliant. Call us on 02380269833 or email us at [email protected].