What is the British standard for fire extinguishers?
BS 5306-3
The UK servicing standard BS 5306-3 puts the responsibility on the user (i.e. the company) to use a competent person to perform the annual inspections, install, commission (skilled checks made to the extinguisher on-site), service and test discharge fire extinguishers.
How often should fire extinguishers be replaced UK?
A fire extinguisher needs to be serviced by a professional every 12 months. A competent person also needs to visually inspect fire extinguishers monthly, to check there are no faults.
Do fire extinguishers expire UK?
How long does a fire extinguisher last? UK fire extinguisher regulations recommend that fire extinguishers should be replaced every 5 years or given an extended service at that point. CO2 fire extinguishers should be replaced every 10 years.
How many fire extinguishers do I need UK?
two
We are often asked ‘How many fire extinguishers are required in a business premises? ‘ UK fire extinguisher standards recommend that you should have a minimum of two ‘Class A’ extinguishers on every storey of the building.
Is British standard a legal requirement?
British Standards are not legislation. They might be regarded as examples of good practice and you can use this as evidence in court to say that by following a British Standard you are doing everything reasonable but following this is definitely not compulsory.
How do you test a fire extinguisher UK?
Check that all fire extinguishers are visible and unobstructed with clean, legible operating instructions facing outwards. Look for signs of damage including corrosion or leakage. Ensure locking pins, seals and tamper indicators are in place and undamaged.
How old can a fire extinguisher be?
Disposable fire extinguishers – Should be replaced every 12 years. Rechargeable fire extinguishers – Should be recharged every 6 years.
How do you tell if your fire extinguisher is expired?
To find out the age of an extinguisher you need to look for dates stamped on the cylinder body, printed on the extinguisher label or printed on the extinguisher itself. Sometimes the date stamp is hidden under the plastic ring around the neck of an extinguisher or under the plastic boot of the extinguisher.
Do I need a fire extinguisher in my business UK?
According to fire extinguisher regulations in the UK: All commercial buildings with electrical equipment, from computers to power plants, must have at least 2-kilogramme CO2 extinguishers to remain compliant. Where there’s 415-volt rated equipment, then 5-kilogramme CO2 extinguishers must be provided.
How do I calculate how many fire extinguishers I need?
National & local requirements Factors that determine the requirements include: Size and layout of the room: The square footage of a building and its layout will determine the number of fire extinguishers needed. For example, NFPA code states that there should be no more than 75 feet between fire extinguishers.