How Often Should Fire Extinguishers Be Checked? A Guide to Staying Safe and Compliant
Ensuring your fire extinguishers are checked regularly is essential for safety and compliance with UK fire safety regulations. According to a 2021 survey by the Fire Industry Association (FIA), 93% of fires were successfully tackled using portable fire extinguishers, highlighting their effectiveness as a first line of defence. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure these vital tools are always ready for use, reducing the risk of minor incidents escalating into major emergencies. Here's everything you need to know about how often fire extinguishers should be checked, along with a look at how Three Elements Fire Protection can support your fire safety needs.
Why Regular Fire Extinguisher Checks Matter
Fire extinguishers are only reliable if they’re in good working condition. Faulty extinguishers can lead to failed responses during a fire, putting people and property at risk. Regular checks ensure your extinguishers are ready to use, comply with legal standards, and reduce the risk of serious incidents.
How Often Should Fire Extinguishers Be Checked?
Monthly Visual Inspections
According to UK fire safety regulations, a monthly visual inspection should be performed by a designated person within the business or property. This simple check ensures that the extinguisher is visible, accessible, and free of any obvious damage. During this inspection, it’s essential to verify that the pressure gauge is in the operable range, the nozzle is unobstructed, and the safety pin is intact.
Annual Maintenance Checks
Fire extinguishers should undergo a thorough yearly maintenance check by a qualified technician. Three Elements Fire Protection offers servicing to ensure compliance with BS 5306, the British Standard code of practice for fire extinguisher maintenance. Our technicians check for any signs of wear, corrosion, or internal damage, ensuring your equipment is reliable.
Extended Service Every Five Years
For certain types of extinguishers, a more extensive check, known as an “extended service,” is required every five years. This applies to water, foam, and powder extinguishers, which must be fully discharged, inspected, refilled, and pressurised. Three Elements provides this service as part of our commitment to comprehensive fire safety solutions.
Extended Service Every Ten Years (CO₂ Extinguishers)
CO₂ extinguishers, due to their higher pressure, require an extended service every ten years. This includes replacing the primary valve and performing a hydrostatic pressure test to check for any stretching, cracking, or bulging in the cylinder, which could pose safety risks. Typically, this service is conducted at an accredited service centre to ensure compliance with UK regulations.
Additional Services from Three Elements Fire Protection
At Three Elements, we go beyond routine checks to support all aspects of fire safety compliance and preparation. Here’s how we can assist you:
Fire Risk Assessments
We provide comprehensive fire risk assessments to identify hazards, evaluate fire risks, and ensure all necessary safety measures are in place. Regular assessments complement your fire extinguisher checks by ensuring your premises have all the necessary fire protection.
Fire Safety Training
Knowledge is power when it comes to fire safety. Our training programmes equip staff with essential fire safety skills, including proper extinguisher use. With the right training, your team can act quickly and confidently in an emergency.
Fire Safety Regulations Compliance
Staying up to date with regulations is crucial for compliance and safety. We help you understand and meet the latest UK fire safety standards, ensuring all equipment and practices are up to date.
Keep Your Fire Extinguishers Ready with Three Elements Fire Protection
With regular checks and expert servicing, you can keep your fire extinguishers in optimal condition, ready to respond at a moment’s notice. At Three Elements Fire Protection, we offer full support for all your fire safety needs, from extinguisher maintenance to risk assessments and training.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your fire safety equipment and practices meet the highest standards.