In the realm of fire safety, proper maintenance of fire extinguishers is non-negotiable. At Compliance Fire, we understand the critical role fire extinguishers play in protecting lives and property. Based in the UK, our team of BAFE-trained engineers is dedicated to ensuring your fire safety equipment is always in optimal condition. With a commitment to quality service and compliance with industry standards, we offer expert fire extinguisher servicing tailored to the needs of various establishments. Whether you run a small business, manage a large organisation, or oversee a residential property, our services ensure your fire safety protocols meet legal requirements and best practices.
Established with a mission to safeguard people and property, Compliance Fire provides a comprehensive range of fire safety solutions, including installation, maintenance, and servicing of fire extinguishers. With years of experience, we have honed our skills to ensure your extinguishers are reliable and fully compliant with regulations. This guide aims to illuminate the importance of fire extinguisher servicing, the legal obligations associated with it, and the myriad benefits it offers to businesses and establishments across the UK.
Understanding Fire Extinguisher Servicing
Annual Fire Extinguisher Servicing
In 2022, statistics revealed that an impressive 93% of fires were successfully extinguished using portable firefighting equipment. This underscores the necessity of ensuring that your extinguishers are fully operational and up to standard. At Compliance Fire, our BAFE-trained engineers bring years of industry expertise to the table, enabling us to deliver reliable fire extinguisher servicing. Our goal is to help you comply with industry standards, ensuring that your premises are safe for all occupants.
We provide annual fire extinguisher servicing for a wide range of extinguishers, including CO2, foam, wet chemical, powder, lithium extinguishers, water extinguishers, water with additive extinguishers, and water mist extinguishers. The specific servicing requirements will depend on the type of extinguisher in use.
Basic Fire Extinguisher Servicing
Basic fire extinguisher servicing involves several essential checks: ensuring the extinguisher is in date, has not been tampered with, is in good working order, and possesses the correct weight and pressure. Additionally, proper signage and positioning are vital for effective use during an emergency. Our engineers are well-equipped to provide advice on refilling or replacing extinguishers, as well as assessing if any extra extinguishers are needed for your premises. After each servicing, we document the findings on the service label attached to the extinguisher. It’s worth noting that maintaining a permanent record of all fire extinguisher servicing is a legal requirement.
Extended Fire Extinguisher Servicing
According to UK fire extinguisher regulations, it is recommended that extinguishers undergo replacement or extended servicing/overhaul every five years. For CO2 extinguishers, this replacement should occur every ten years unless the unit is damaged or has been discharged. Our annual fire extinguisher servicing is suitable for a wide variety of establishments, including local authorities, construction companies, educational facilities, housing associations, regional private sector companies, and small to medium independent traders and landlords. If you’re unsure of your needs, get in touch with us to arrange your free consultation for fire extinguisher servicing.
Understanding Fire Safety Regulations
Legal Obligations of the Responsible Person
In any establishment, it is a legal requirement to have fire extinguishers inspected annually. The individual designated as the Responsible Person (RP) – usually a business owner or manager – holds significant responsibility. Failure to meet these obligations can result in legal consequences, including prosecution for being uninsured in the event of fire-related losses.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 governs fire safety legislation for non-domestic premises in England and Wales. This order mandates that appropriate fire-fighting equipment, including portable fire extinguishers, must be provided wherever there is a fire risk.
Responsibilities of the Responsible Person
The Responsible Person is tasked with conducting fire safety risk assessments and implementing and maintaining fire management plans. Key legal obligations regarding fire extinguisher servicing include:
- Maintenance & Servicing
The Responsible Person must ensure that fire extinguishers are maintained and serviced regularly, keeping them in good working order.
- Monthly Visual Checks
A monthly visual inspection of all fire extinguishers must be carried out to identify any issues that may require immediate attention.
- Annual Servicing
Arranging for a competent person to conduct annual fire extinguisher servicing is a critical responsibility of the Responsible Person. This ensures that extinguishers are compliant with regulations and safe for use.
The Importance of Fire Extinguisher Servicing
Fire extinguisher servicing is not just a regulatory requirement, it’s a crucial aspect of ensuring safety within your premises. Regular maintenance can significantly increase the effectiveness of your fire extinguishers in an emergency, saving lives and minimising property damage. Neglecting this essential service can lead to dire consequences, as improperly maintained extinguishers may fail when they are most needed. Here are the benefits of regular fire extinguisher servicing…
- Compliance
Regular servicing of fire extinguishers is essential for regulatory compliance. Our BAFE-qualified engineers ensure that your extinguishers meet the British Standard Requirements, providing you with peace of mind. Adhering to these regulations not only protects your business but also fosters a culture of safety within your organisation. By staying compliant, you can avoid potential fines and legal issues that may arise from negligence, thereby safeguarding your reputation in the industry.
- Safety
With nearly 20,000 commercial fires reported in the UK each year, regular fire extinguisher servicing is vital. It protects your premises and personnel by ensuring that extinguishers are functional and ready to use. An unserviced extinguisher can become ineffective, leading to catastrophic outcomes during a fire emergency. Regular checks ensure that your staff are well-informed and confident in using the extinguishers, which can be crucial in high-stress situations.
- Functionality
Annual servicing guarantees that all extinguishers – including CO2, foam, wet chemical, and powder—are functioning properly and are fully operational in the event of a fire. Our thorough checks include inspecting the physical condition, pressure levels, and functionality of each unit. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that each extinguisher is primed for immediate use, which can make all the difference when every second counts.
- Cost-Effectiveness
Regular servicing can identify potential issues before they become significant problems. This proactive approach can save your business money on costly repairs or replacements down the line. By addressing small concerns early, you not only avoid larger expenses but also extend the lifespan of your fire safety equipment. Investing in regular servicing is a financially sound decision that pays off in both safety and savings.
- Assurance
Knowing that your fire extinguishers are regularly serviced by qualified professionals gives you confidence that you’re doing everything possible to protect your staff and assets. This assurance allows you to focus on running your business rather than worrying about fire safety compliance. Additionally, it instils a sense of security among employees and clients, fostering a positive work environment.
- Enhanced Reputation
Demonstrating a commitment to safety can enhance your business’s reputation. Clients and employees alike will feel safer knowing that you take fire safety seriously. This commitment can set you apart from competitors who may overlook the importance of regular maintenance. By prioritising safety, you not only protect your business but also build trust and loyalty among your clients and staff.
- Legal Protection
Regular servicing ensures that you comply with fire safety regulations, reducing the risk of legal action should a fire occur. This protects your business and its assets from the repercussions of negligence. Furthermore, having documented proof of servicing can be invaluable in the event of an insurance claim following a fire incident. By maintaining compliance, you create a safer environment while mitigating legal risks, allowing your business to operate smoothly.
Regular fire extinguisher servicing is not just a box to tick off on your compliance checklist, it is a fundamental aspect of proactive fire safety management. By prioritising the upkeep of your fire extinguishers, you not only adhere to legal obligations but also demonstrate a genuine commitment to the safety of your employees and customers. Remember, a well-maintained fire extinguisher can be the first line of defence in preventing a small fire from escalating into a disaster. Therefore, investing time and resources into this critical area is essential for creating a safer, more secure environment for everyone involved. Contact Compliance Fire today to book yours!
In Conclusion: Protecting Lives & Property
Ensuring that your fire extinguishers are serviced regularly is a vital step in maintaining a safe environment for everyone within your establishment. At Compliance Fire, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service tailored to your specific needs. Our expertise and commitment to quality ensure that your fire safety measures are up to standard, reducing the risk of fire-related incidents. With our experienced and BAFE-trained engineers at your side, you can rest assured that your fire safety equipment is always in good hands, empowering you to focus on your core business activities without compromise.
At Compliance Fire, we believe that effective fire safety extends beyond mere compliance, it is about fostering a culture of safety within your organisation. Our team is dedicated to educating your staff on the proper use of fire extinguishers and the importance of fire safety protocols. We conduct informative training sessions and provide resources to ensure that your employees feel confident and prepared in case of a fire emergency. This proactive approach not only enhances workplace safety but also promotes a sense of responsibility among your team, making fire safety a collective effort.
Furthermore, we understand that the needs of businesses can evolve, which is why we offer flexible servicing schedules to accommodate your operational requirements. Whether you run a small independent shop or a large corporate facility, our tailored solutions are designed to fit seamlessly into your existing processes. Our commitment to ongoing support means that you can rely on us not just for servicing, but as a trusted partner in your fire safety journey. With Compliance Fire, you can rest assured that you are taking the right steps to protect lives and property while fostering a safe and secure environment for everyone involved. Contact us today for more information!
Fire Extinguisher FAQs
How long does it take to service a fire extinguisher?
The length of time fire extinguisher servicing takes will depend on factors such as the type and size of the extinguisher.
How much does fire extinguisher servicing cost?
The cost of fire extinguisher servicing will vary depending on your requirements. Get in touch with us for a FREE no-obligation consultation.
How often should fire extinguishers be serviced?
Fire extinguishers should be serviced annually, with monthly visual checks performed by the responsible person.
What is included in a fire extinguisher servicing?
Servicing includes checking the extinguisher’s condition, weight, pressure, and signage, and ensuring it is in date.
What happens if my fire extinguisher is out of date?
An out-of-date extinguisher may not function correctly in an emergency, posing a serious risk. It should be replaced immediately.
Can I service my own fire extinguishers?
No, fire extinguishers must be serviced by a competent, qualified individual.
How long do fire extinguishers last?
Most extinguishers have a lifespan of 10-15 years, depending on the type and condition.
What should I do if my fire extinguisher has been used?
It should be replaced or recharged immediately after use, as it may not be functional in an emergency.
What are the signs that a fire extinguisher needs servicing?
Look for signs of damage, or corrosion, or if the pressure gauge shows a reading outside the green zone.
How many fire extinguishers do I need?
Regulations state that a minimum of two Class A fire extinguishers on every floor of a building are needed unless the premises are very small. All premises with electrical equipment must have at least 2kg CO2 extinguishers, 5kg if there is 415-Volt-rated equipment.
Which type of fire extinguisher do I need?
Three- or six-litre foam, or nine-litre water, are the most frequently found types, although others are likely to be needed as well, most commonly CO2 extinguishers for electrical fires.
Where should I put a fire extinguisher?
Fire extinguishers must be accessible and visible. Water-based and CO2 fire extinguishers should be located by exits and fire alarm call points to encourage people to move away from the fire. Speak to us today for more information about where your fire extinguishers should be located.
Don’t leave fire safety to chance. Ensure your fire extinguishers are fully compliant and ready for action by contacting Compliance Fire today. Schedule your consultation for fire extinguisher servicing and take the first step towards a safer future for your premises.
