Yes, in the UK, there are specific regulations and standards governing the installation, use, and maintenance of fire extinguishers. The key regulations and standards include:
- The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO): This applies to all non-domestic premises in England and Wales, including the common parts of blocks of flats or houses in multiple occupations (HMOs). The FSO requires the responsible person (e.g., employer, owner, or occupier) to carry out a fire risk assessment, implement appropriate fire safety measures, and maintain a fire management plan, including the provision and maintenance of appropriate fire-fighting equipment like fire extinguishers.
- British Standards BS 5306: This series of standards covers various aspects of fire extinguishing installations and equipment. Specifically:
- BS 5306-3: This standard covers the commissioning and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers.
- BS 5306-8: This standard provides recommendations for the selection and positioning of portable fire extinguishers.
- These standards give detailed guidance on how many extinguishers should be provided, where they should be located, how they should be installed, and the frequency and type of maintenance required.
- Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996: These regulations require appropriate signage for locating and identifying fire-fighting equipment.
- Local Authority Building Control (LABC): While not a regulation itself, local building regulations may have specific requirements for fire safety and fire-fighting equipment in new buildings or during significant refurbishments.
The key points these regulations and standards cover include:
- Assessment of Needs: A fire risk assessment should determine the types and quantities of fire extinguishers needed for the premises.
- Provision: Adequate numbers of the correct types of fire extinguishers should be provided based on the size, layout, and specific hazards of the premises.
- Location: Extinguishers should be conspicuously located and available at all times. They should not be obstructed and should be near room exits, in corridors, stairways, and at specific fire hazards.
- Installation and Signage: Extinguishers should be properly installed, usually on wall brackets or stands, at an appropriate height. Signage should indicate the location and type of extinguisher.
- Training: Staff should be trained in the correct use of extinguishers and in understanding the types of fires they are intended to be used on.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance of fire extinguishers is required to ensure they remain in working order. This includes annual checks by a competent person.
It’s essential for businesses and non-domestic premises to comply with these regulations and standards to ensure they provide a safe environment and are prepared in the event of a fire. Failure to comply can result in significant fines, legal action, and increased risk of damage or injury during a fire.
In the UK, whether a fire extinguisher can be refilled or recharged after use depends on several factors, including the type of extinguisher, its age, condition, and compliance with current regulations. Historically, many types of fire extinguishers could be refilled or recharged after use, provided they were still in good working condition and it was cost-effective to do so.
However, industry practices can change due to economic, environmental, and regulatory reasons. If there has been a shift within the industry away from refilling extinguishers due to the costs associated with scrapping and recycling older units, and if new extinguishers have become more cost-effective, this could influence the availability of refilling services.
The decision to refill or replace a used fire extinguisher typically involves the following considerations:
- Safety and Compliance: The extinguisher must meet all current safety standards and regulations after being refilled. If it cannot be guaranteed, replacement is the safer option.
- Cost-Effectiveness: If the cost of refilling and servicing an extinguisher is comparable to or higher than purchasing a new one, it may be more economical to replace it.
- Condition: Extinguishers that are damaged or have reached the end of their recommended service life should be replaced rather than refilled.
- Type of Extinguisher: Some types of extinguishers are more easily and cost-effectively refilled than others. For example, CO2 extinguishers require specialised refilling processes that might not be available or economical in all areas.
If you’re unsure about the policy on refilling fire extinguishers in your area or within your organisation, it’s best to consult with a qualified fire safety equipment supplier or service provider. We can advise you on whether your extinguishers can be refilled or should be replaced, based on current industry practices, safety standards, and economic considerations. Additionally, we can ensure that any service performed on your fire extinguishers complies with British Standards and local fire safety regulations.
In the UK, fire extinguishers are not legally required to be wall-mounted, but they must be securely placed to prevent them from being knocked over or damaged and to ensure they are readily accessible in the event of a fire. Here are the guidelines regarding the placement of fire extinguishers:
- Stable Position: Fire extinguishers should be kept in a stand or bracket to ensure they remain upright and are not knocked over. The stand or bracket also helps to highlight the location of the extinguisher, making it more visible and accessible in an emergency.
- Height Considerations: If wall-mounted, the carrying handle of larger extinguishers (heavier than 4kg) should be about 1 meter from the ground, whereas smaller extinguishers (not exceeding 4kg) should have their handles about 1.5 meters from the ground. This is to ensure they can be easily reached and removed from their mounting.
- Accessibility: Fire extinguishers should be placed in locations where they can be easily accessed in the event of a fire. They should not be hidden behind doors, curtains, or furniture, and there should be clear signs indicating their location.
- Near Exits and Risk Areas: Ideally, extinguishers should be located near room exits, in corridors, and close to specific areas of risk but not so close that they could become inaccessible in the event of a fire in those areas.
- Avoid Obstructions: Ensure that fire extinguishers are not obstructed by equipment, furniture, or decorations. People should be able to access them without having to move anything aside.
While wall mounting is common and can be a good way to keep extinguishers out of the way of daily activities, using a proper stand or cabinet is also acceptable, especially in areas where wall mounting might not be practical. The key is that the extinguisher is properly supported and easily accessible, not necessarily that it is attached to a wall. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and local fire safety regulations when installing fire extinguishers.
Yes, if you are responsible for a building or premises in the UK, you are likely required to carry out a fire risk assessment. This requirement is part of The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in England and Wales, and similar regulations apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The legislation applies to virtually all non-domestic premises, including offices, shops, premises that the public have access to, and common areas of multi-occupancy residential buildings.
Here are some key points regarding fire risk assessments:
- Responsibility: The duty falls on the ‘responsible person’ for the premises, which could be the owner, employer, landlord, occupier, or anyone else with control of the premises, such as a facilities manager or building manager.
- Purpose of the Assessment: The aim is to identify fire hazards and people at risk, evaluate, remove or reduce the risks, and ensure that general fire precautions are in place to deal with any remaining risk.
- Regular Reviews: The fire risk assessment is not a one-time task. It needs to be reviewed and updated regularly, especially if there are changes in the use of the building, the structure of the building, or the number of occupants.
- Documentation: If your business has five or more employees, the findings of the fire risk assessment must be recorded in writing. Even if you have fewer than five employees, it’s strongly recommended to keep a written record.
- Professional Help: While it’s possible for the responsible person to conduct the fire risk assessment themselves if they feel competent to do so, many opt to hire a professional fire risk assessor for peace of mind and to ensure compliance.
- Enforcement and Penalties: Local fire and rescue authorities are the principal bodies responsible for enforcing fire safety legislation. Failure to comply with the fire safety order can result in fines and, in severe cases, imprisonment.
Remember, the fire risk assessment is a crucial step in protecting the people in the building and the building itself from the risk of fire. It helps create a safer environment and ensures that you comply with UK fire safety laws.
Yes, in the UK, your company needs to provide fire safety training to your employees. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires that all employers in England and Wales, along with comparable regulations in Scotland and Northern Ireland, ensure their staff receive adequate fire safety training. This training should be carried out at the time of induction and periodically refreshed, typically annually, or more frequently if there are significant changes to the work environment or personnel.
Here’s what typically needs to be covered in fire safety training:
- Fire Awareness: Employees should understand the basics of fire safety, including how fires start (fire triangle), common fire hazards specific to their workplace, and how to prevent fires.
- Evacuation Procedures: Staff should be familiar with the evacuation routes and exits, assembly points, and the procedure for raising the alarm in case of fire. They should also know how to respond if the primary evacuation route is blocked.
- Firefighting Equipment: While not everyone is expected to use firefighting equipment like fire extinguishers, employees should know the locations of this equipment and the basic principles of operation. Specific training should be provided to those designated to use such equipment.
- Role-Specific Responsibilities: Staff with specific roles in the fire safety plan, such as fire wardens or marshals, should receive additional training relevant to their responsibilities.
- People at Risk: Training should also cover procedures for ensuring that visitors and individuals with disabilities can safely evacuate the premises.
- Action on Discovering a Fire: Employees should know what actions to take if they discover a fire, including how to sound the alarm and what information to provide to the emergency services.
- Practical Drills: Conducting regular fire drills will help ensure employees understand evacuation procedures and can react appropriately in an emergency.
The exact nature and frequency of the training will depend on the size of your company, the nature of its activities, the complexity of your organisational structure, and the results of your fire risk assessment. Remember, effective fire safety training can significantly reduce the risk of fire and can save lives and property. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that all staff are adequately trained and that records of training are maintained.
Choosing the right fire extinguisher in the UK involves considering several factors such as the types of fires that are most likely to occur in your environment, the size and layout of the area, and the people who might be using the fire extinguisher. Here are some guidelines to help you select the appropriate fire extinguisher for your needs:
- Assess the Risk: Identify the materials present in your environment that could ignite and fuel a fire. This could include paper, wood, electrical equipment, cooking oils, or chemicals.
- Understand Fire Classes:
- Class A: Fires involving solid materials such as wood, paper, or textiles.
- Class B: Fires involving flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, or paints.
- Class C: Fires involving gases.
- Class D: Fires involving metals.
- Class E: Fires involving electrical equipment (Note: Class E is not officially recognised in the UK, but electrical fires are a distinct type).
- Class F: Fires involving cooking oils and fats.
- Select the Appropriate Extinguisher:
- For General Office or Home: A water or foam extinguisher (Class A fires) is typically suitable, especially if the area contains organic materials like paper, wood, or textiles.
- For Kitchens or Food-Related Areas: A wet chemical extinguisher is ideal for fires involving cooking oils and fats (Class F fires).
- For Areas with Electrical Equipment: CO2 extinguishers are appropriate since they won’t damage electrical components and are effective on Class B and electrical fires.
- For Workshops or Garages: Consider a powder extinguisher, as it can handle Class A, B, and C fires, making it suitable for various materials including flammable liquids and gases.
- For Specialised Areas (like those containing chemical or metal hazards): You might need specific types such as Class D extinguishers for metal fires or other specialised types depending on the risks involved.
- Size and Weight: Consider who will be using the fire extinguisher. It should be light enough for them to handle easily, but also large enough to tackle a fire effectively. Smaller extinguishers (e.g., 2kg CO2 or 6-litre foam) might be easier to handle for quick responses.
- Location and Accessibility: Place extinguishers in clear, accessible locations near exits or risk areas but not too close that a fire could block access to them. Ensure signs are visible above the extinguishers to help people identify them quickly in an emergency.
- Training and Information: Make sure that people who are likely to use the fire extinguisher are trained or informed about how to use it. Understanding how to operate an extinguisher can be as crucial as having the right type.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance and inspections are essential to ensure that fire extinguishers will work when needed. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local regulations regarding the servicing and replacement of fire extinguishers.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right fire extinguisher for your needs in the UK. It’s highly recommended to consult with a fire safety professional such as ourselves or your local fire brigade if you’re unsure about the specific requirements for your premises.
Disposing of an expired or damaged fire extinguisher in the UK requires careful consideration to ensure environmental protection and legal compliance. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Do Not Dispose of in Regular Waste: Fire extinguishers contain chemicals and are pressurised, which can be hazardous. Therefore, they should never be thrown away with regular household or business waste.
- Contact Local Authorities: Many local council recycling centres accept old or expired fire extinguishers, but policies can vary. Contact your local council to find out if they accept fire extinguishers and what their specific procedures are.
- Use a Licensed Waste Carrier: If your local recycling centre does not accept fire extinguishers, you will need to use a professional waste disposal company. Ensure the company is licensed to handle hazardous waste, including fire extinguishers. They will ensure that the extinguisher is disposed of safely and in accordance with environmental regulations.
- Return to the Supplier: Some suppliers offer a take-back service for old or expired fire extinguishers. Contact the company where you purchased the extinguisher to find out if they provide this service.
- Fire Equipment Servicing Companies: Companies that service and maintain fire extinguishers often offer disposal services as well. If you have your extinguishers serviced regularly, ask your service provider if they can dispose of your old units during their next visit.
- Ensure Complete Discharge: If instructed by a professional, ensure that the extinguisher is completely empty before disposal. However, this should only be done if you have been trained or advised by a professional on how to safely discharge the extinguisher, as it can be dangerous if not done correctly.
- Documentation: When disposing of fire extinguishers through a licensed waste carrier or another service, ensure you receive documentation that confirms the safe and compliant disposal of the units. This could be important for your business’s environmental compliance records.
Remember, the disposal method may vary depending on the type of fire extinguisher (water, foam, dry powder, CO2, etc.), so it’s essential to follow guidance specific to your extinguisher type. Always prioritise safety and environmental considerations in the disposal process.
Operating a fire extinguisher safely involves a series of steps that should be performed calmly and confidently. Before attempting to use a fire extinguisher, make sure the fire is small, contained, and not spreading rapidly. Also, ensure there is a clear escape route behind you. Here’s how to use a fire extinguisher safely, often remembered by the acronym PASS:
- Pull: Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. The pin acts as a lock to prevent accidental discharge. Pulling the pin will break the tamper seal and allow you to operate the extinguisher.
- Aim: Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire, not at the flames. Targeting the base of the fire is essential for extinguishing the fuel source.
- Squeeze: Squeeze the handle or lever to release the extinguishing agent. This will discharge the contents of the extinguisher. If the extinguisher has a safety lock, make sure to release it before squeezing.
- Sweep: Sweep the nozzle or hose side to side at the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Move cautiously closer to the fire as it diminishes but be prepared to back away if the fire flares up again. Continue discharging the extinguisher, using the sweeping motion until the fire is completely out or the extinguisher is empty.
Additional safety tips include:
– Always read and follow the instructions on the fire extinguisher for its correct use.
– Ensure you are using the correct type of fire extinguisher for the fire you are attempting to extinguish.
– Do not try to fight a fire if it’s too large or if you feel it’s unsafe.
– Keep yourself between the fire and an exit, so you can retreat if the fire becomes too intense.
– Avoid breathing in smoke or fumes. Stay low if there is smoke.
– If the fire does not begin to go out immediately, or if you have any doubts about your safety, leave the area immediately and close doors behind you to contain the fire.
– Alert others, evacuate the building, and call the fire brigade if the fire cannot be quickly extinguished.
Remember, safety is the most important concern. Never attempt to fight a fire if it puts your life or others at risk. Fire extinguishers are meant for small, initial fires. If a fire becomes too large or uncontrollable, evacuate immediately.
Using a fire extinguisher properly is crucial for effectively combating small fires and ensuring your safety. The PASS technique is a widely taught method to remember how to use a fire extinguisher correctly. PASS stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep:
- Pull: Pull the pin at the top of the fire extinguisher. The pin releases a locking mechanism and will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.
- Aim: Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire. Hitting the top of the flame will not be effective. You need to extinguish the fuel that is feeding the fire.
- Squeeze: Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent. Releasing the handle will stop the discharge. Ensure you are a safe distance from the fire before you start to discharge; most extinguishers have an effective range of about 6 to 10 feet.
- Sweep: Sweep the nozzle or hose side to side at the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Move carefully toward the fire as it diminishes. Be sure to watch the fire area in case the fire reignites. Repeat the process if necessary.
Additional safety tips:
- Always read the instructions on the fire extinguisher in advance. Know which type of fires your extinguisher is meant to put out and how it works.
- Before fighting a fire, ensure the fire service has been alerted, the room is not filled with smoke, you have a clear exit path, and the fire is contained and not spreading rapidly.
- Use the appropriate type of extinguisher for the fire. Using the wrong type can be ineffective and can increase the danger.
- Never turn your back on a fire, even if it seems to be extinguished. There could be hidden hot spots that can reignite.
- If you have any doubts about your safety or the ability to put out the fire, evacuate immediately and wait for the fire service.
Remember, fire extinguishers are for small, contained fires only. If the fire is spreading quickly or has reached the ceiling, it’s too large to be handled by a fire extinguisher. Evacuate the area immediately.
In the UK, the lifespan of a fire extinguisher depends on its type, manufacturer guidelines, and how well it is maintained. Generally, fire extinguishers have a lifespan of between 5 to 20 years. However, they require regular maintenance and inspections to ensure they remain in good working order throughout this time. Here are some key points regarding the lifespan and replacement of fire extinguishers:
- Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the lifespan and maintenance of the extinguisher. Different models and types may have different expected lifespans.
- Regular Inspections: Fire extinguishers should be inspected regularly, typically on a monthly basis, to check for signs of damage, corrosion, leakage, or a drop in pressure (if they have a pressure gauge).
- Annual Maintenance: A more thorough check should be performed by a qualified professional at least once a year. This maintenance checks for operational functionality and any internal or external damage.
- Extended Servicing: Water, foam, wet chemical, and powder extinguishers usually require an extended service every five years, which includes a discharge test and refill. CO2 extinguishers typically require a hydrostatic pressure test every ten years.
- Replacement After Use: A fire extinguisher must be recharged or replaced after any use, even if only partially discharged.
- Signs of Wear and Damage: If an extinguisher shows signs of wear, such as rust, damage, or if the seal is broken, it should be replaced regardless of age.
- Disposal: Outdated, damaged, or expired fire extinguishers must be disposed of safely and in accordance with local regulations. They should not simply be thrown in the trash.
- Legislation and Standards: Always ensure that fire extinguishers comply with current UK legislation and standards, such as BS EN3 for the manufacture and performance of extinguishers and BS 5306 for the commissioning and maintenance.
Due to these factors, there is no one-size-fits-all answer for when a fire extinguisher should be replaced. It depends on the individual extinguisher’s condition, its maintenance history, and regulatory compliance. Always ensure that fire safety equipment is maintained in accordance with the latest standards and manufacturer recommendations to ensure they are effective when needed.
The number of fire extinguishers required for a property in the UK is not a one-size-fits-all matter; it depends on several factors, including the size of the property, its layout, the type of activities conducted within, and the potential fire risks identified during a fire risk assessment. However, British Standard BS 5306-8:2012 provides general guidance on the provision of portable fire extinguishers.
Here’s how to start determining the number of fire extinguishers you might need:
- Fire Risk Assessment: This is the first step in determining how many fire extinguishers are needed. A fire risk assessment should be conducted by a competent person. It will identify the types of fire hazards present, the nature of the occupants, and the structural features of the building.
- Basic Provision: The standard basic provision for fire extinguishers is one 13A extinguisher per 200 square meters of floor space, with at least two extinguishers per floor. This is for Class A fires involving ordinary combustibles like paper, wood, and textiles.
- Specific Risks: Additional extinguishers should be provided for specific risks in certain areas. For example, a kitchen might need a wet chemical extinguisher for cooking oil fires, or areas with electrical equipment might need CO2 extinguishers.
- Travel Distance: No one should have to travel more than 30 meters to reach a fire extinguisher. This distance is reduced for high-risk areas or for specific types of extinguishers, like 10 meters for CO2 extinguishers.
- Special Considerations: Large, open-plan areas might need more extinguishers to cover the space adequately. Also, premises with multiple levels, complex layouts, or increased risks (like chemical storage areas) may require additional extinguishers.
- Types of Extinguishers: It’s important not just to have the correct number of extinguishers but also the right types, based on the materials present that could fuel a fire.
It’s crucial to consult with a fire safety professional to determine the exact requirements for your specific property, as we can provide tailored advice based on the latest regulations and your unique circumstances. The guidelines from BS 5306-8:2012 are a starting point, but the specific needs may vary greatly depending on the details of your property and its use.
In the UK, fire extinguisher inspection and maintenance schedules are governed by British Standards, specifically BS 5306-3:2017. According to this standard, fire extinguishers should undergo several levels of inspection and maintenance:
- Monthly Visual Inspection: This can be carried out by the business owner or designated staff members. The inspection should check that:
- The extinguisher is in its correct location.
- The extinguisher has not been discharged, tampered with, or damaged.
- The pressure gauge (if present) is within operational limits (the needle should be in the green zone).
- The safety pin and tamper seal are intact.
- The instructions on the extinguisher are legible and facing outwards.
- Annual Maintenance: This should be carried out by a competent person, typically a trained fire safety engineer or technician. The maintenance involves a thorough check of the extinguisher’s physical condition, operational parts, and agent (such as powder, foam, or water). Any necessary repairs or replacements should be made during this time.
- Extended Service and Overhaul:
- Water, Foam, Powder, and Wet Chemical Extinguishers: These should undergo an extended service (discharge test and refill) every five years.
- CO2 Extinguishers: These require a more detailed examination, including a test discharge, every ten years.
The maintenance schedule should be recorded and the records retained as part of your fire safety documentation. If the extinguisher has been used, even partially, it should be immediately replaced or refilled and serviced, regardless of its scheduled maintenance.
Remember, these guidelines are for the minimum level of inspection and maintenance. Depending on the environment (e.g., areas with high risk or heavy usage), more frequent checks might be necessary. It’s essential to adhere to these guidelines to ensure the safety and effectiveness of your fire extinguishers in the event of a fire.
In the UK, fires are classified into different types based on the fuel involved. Understanding these classes is crucial for choosing the correct fire extinguisher. Here are the fire classes and the suitable extinguishers for each:
- Class A Fires: Involve solid materials such as wood, paper, textiles, and some plastics. The fuel source is usually organic, allowing it to burn easily.
- Suitable Extinguishers: Water, foam, dry powder, or wet chemical extinguishers.
- Class B Fires: Involve flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, oils, paints, and some waxes. These do not include cooking oils or fats.
- Suitable Extinguishers: Foam, dry powder, CO2, or some special powder extinguishers.
- Class C Fires: Involve flammable gases like propane, butane, or methane.
- Suitable Extinguishers: Dry powder extinguishers are typically used for gas fires. However, it is often safer to turn off the gas supply than to fight a gas fire.
- Class D Fires: Involve combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, aluminum, and sodium. These are less common and usually found in industrial or laboratory settings.
- Suitable Extinguishers: Special dry powder extinguishers designed for the specific metal involved.
- Electrical Fires (formerly considered Class E, though this classification is not officially used in the UK anymore): Involve electrical equipment. While technically not a separate class, these fires require non-conductive extinguishing agents.
- Suitable Extinguishers: CO2, dry powder, or foam extinguishers. Note that once the electrical item is unplugged or the electricity is otherwise cut off, the fire becomes one of the other classes (usually Class A).
- Class F Fires: Involve cooking oils and fats, such as in deep fat fryers.
- Suitable Extinguishers: Wet chemical extinguishers specially designed to tackle cooking oil and fat fires.
It’s important to use the correct type of fire extinguisher for the specific class of fire to ensure that the fire is effectively put out and to avoid making the situation worse. For example, using water on a Class B or electrical fire can be dangerous and counterproductive. Always ensure that the right type of extinguisher is available in areas prone to specific types of fires, and that everyone knows which extinguisher to use in each situation.
In the UK, fire extinguishers are classified according to the type of fire they are designed to combat. Each class is represented by a colour code and symbol to help identify the suitable extinguisher for different types of fires.
Here are the different types of fire extinguishers commonly found in the UK:
- Water (Red Label): These are used for Class A fires, which involve solid combustibles such as wood, paper, and textiles. They should not be used on electrical fires or fires involving flammable liquids and gases.
- Foam (Cream Label): Suitable for Class A and B fires, which include flammable liquids such as petrol and paints. Foam extinguishers form a blanket over the burning material, starving the fire of oxygen. They should not be used on electrical fires, but they are safe if inadvertently sprayed on electrical equipment.
- Powder (Blue Label): These are versatile and can be used on Class A, B, and C fires, including flammable gases like propane and butane. They can also be used on electrical fires. However, powder extinguishers can create poor visibility and breathing problems, so they should be used with caution indoors.
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2) (Black Label): Best for Class B fires (flammable liquids) and electrical fires. CO2 extinguishers do not leave any residue, making them suitable for offices and electronic equipment areas. They should not be used on Class A or C fires due to the risk of reignition and inability to remove heat.
- Wet Chemical (Yellow Label): Specifically designed for Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats, such as deep-fat fryers. They can also be used on Class A fires but are not suitable for flammable liquid or gas fires, or electrical fires.
- Water Mist (White Label): These are newer types of extinguishers that can be used on Classes A, B, C, and F fires. They work by creating a fine mist that cools the fire and reduces the oxygen level. They are safe to use on electrical fires.
- Fire Blankets: While not technically extinguishers, fire blankets are used to smother fires, typically in kitchens to combat Class F fires or on a person whose clothing is on fire.
Each type of fire extinguisher is designed for specific types of fires, and it’s important to use the right one to avoid spreading the fire or causing injury. In the UK, fire extinguishers should conform to British Standard BS EN 3, and they should be properly maintained and checked regularly.
In the UK, fire extinguishers are categorised based on the type of fire they are designed to extinguish. Each type is identified by a colour code and label. Here are the main types of fire extinguishers you’ll find in the UK:
- Water (Red Label): These are used for Class A fires involving solid materials such as wood, paper, and textiles. They cool the burning materials and are not suitable for electrical fires or fires involving flammable liquids and gases.
- Foam (Cream Label): Suitable for Class A and B fires, which include fires involving flammable liquids like petrol and paints. Foam extinguishers work by forming a barrier between the fuel and the flame. They should not be used on live electrical equipment.
- Dry Powder (Blue Label): These can be used on Class A, B, and C fires, making them very versatile. They are suitable for flammable gases, liquids, and solids. However, they’re not recommended for use in enclosed spaces due to the risk of inhalation of the powder and the limited visibility they can cause.
- CO2 (Black Label): Carbon Dioxide extinguishers are ideal for Class B fires (flammable liquids) and are safe to use on electrical fires. They do not leave a residue, making them a good choice for environments with electrical equipment, such as server rooms or kitchens with electrical appliances.
- Wet Chemical (Yellow Label): These are primarily for Class F fires, which involve cooking oils and fats, such as in deep-fat fryers. They can also be used on Class A fires. Wet chemical extinguishers work by creating a soap-like solution that cools and smothers the fire.
- Water Mist (White Label): Water mist extinguishers are a more recent innovation and can be used on Class A, B, C, and F fires. They discharge a fine mist that cools flames and reduces the oxygen supply. They are safe to use on electrical fires.
- Specialist Extinguishers: These include a variety of types designed for specific risks, such as metal fires (Class D fires), which require a special dry powder extinguisher different from the standard one.
When choosing a fire extinguisher, it’s important to consider the types of materials present in the area to be protected. Each type of extinguisher is designed for specific fire classes, and using the wrong type can be ineffective or even dangerous. Always ensure that the right type of extinguisher is available in the appropriate areas and that users are trained or familiar with their operation.
The placement of fire extinguishers in a home or workplace in the UK should adhere to best practices and guidelines to ensure they are accessible and effective in the event of a fire. Here are some general guidelines for placing fire extinguishers:
- Visibility: Fire extinguishers should be placed in clear, visible locations. They should not be hidden behind doors, curtains, or furniture. Signage may be used to indicate the location of an extinguisher.
- Accessibility: Extinguishers should be easily accessible and not blocked by furniture, equipment, or other obstacles. They should be installed at an appropriate height, typically no more than 1.5 meters from the floor to the handle, so that they can be easily reached.
- Near Fire Risks: Place extinguishers near potential fire hazards or sources of fire. For example, in a kitchen, an extinguisher should be located near, but not directly next to, cooking appliances. It’s important to avoid positioning an extinguisher right next to a potential fire hazard, as this could make it unreachable in the event of a fire.
- Exit Routes: Extinguishers should be located along escape routes and near exits. This ensures that individuals can use the extinguisher if needed and then quickly evacuate the premises.
- Workplaces: In larger or more complex workplaces, fire extinguishers should be distributed throughout the premises, following a fire risk assessment. Key locations include workshops, storage areas, heating rooms, and areas where flammable or combustible materials are handled or stored.
- Instruction and Training: Both in homes and workplaces, residents or employees should be informed about the locations of fire extinguishers and should receive basic training on how to use them.
- Maintenance and Inspection: Regular checks should be carried out to ensure that fire extinguishers are in their correct location, have not been tampered with, and are in working order.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that fire extinguishers are placed effectively in your home or workplace, enhancing safety for everyone on the premises. It’s also advisable to consult with a fire safety professional or conduct a fire risk assessment to determine the specific needs and requirements for your particular environment.