When To Service Your Fire Extinguishers
Equipped for Fire Prevention
Fire fighting equipment including fire extinguishers are in place for emergency fire situations and act as a first response. Having this type of equipment in the workplace is vital.
In accordance with BS 5306, a basic service must be carried out on fire extinguishers every 12 months.
On average fire extinguishers should be lasting you between 5 and 15 years depending on the manufacturer alongside the love and attention you give them.
Ideally, you will then be carrying out visual inspections every month to ensure they are in good working condition. This includes checks on the overall condition of the extinguisher, the current pressure gauge, and ensuring the pin and seal are in still place.
Prepare For The Worst-Case Scenario
Hopefully, you will never need to use a fire extinguisher, but if disaster strikes the last thing you want is to pick up a piece of defective equipment…right?
So consider the last time you carried out a service on your fire extinguishers and utilise the guide below:
| Extinguisher Type | Basic Service | In-Depth Service |
|---|---|---|
| Water-based | Annually | Every 5 Years |
| Powder | Annually | Every 5 Years |
| CO2 | Annually | Every 10 Years |
| Foam | Annually | Every 5 Years |
Who Is Responsible For Fire Extinguisher Maintenance?
It is the duty of the responsible person to maintain fire extinguishers on a regular basis, ensuring this is carried out by a competent person. Maintenance includes anything from visual inspections each month to basic and extended services all the way through to overhauling them.
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Covering Your Fire Safety Requirements
Although it is great to maintain and service your fire extinguishers this isn’t the end of your fire safety responsibilities.
It is vital to keep on top of your safety documentation from your emergency procedures to your safety logs there is plenty to be considered.
If you feel overwhelmed or ill-equipped for putting these together we can assist. Partner up with us to carry out your Fire Risk Assessment to put in place the required documentation to support you in managing your fire safety.
Fire is a huge threat and can have a long-lasting impact on businesses, and people’s lives should the worse happen, so it is vital to consider changes sooner rather than later.
