Navigating UK Fire Extinguisher Legislation: A Simple Guide for Business Owners

Safety is paramount in any workplace, and in the UK, it is enshrined in law. Among these regulations, fire safety is a critical aspect, and it includes the requirement for appropriate fire extinguishing equipment. Herein, we explore the UK Fire Extinguisher legislation and provide a simple walkthrough for business owners on their obligations concerning fire extinguishers in their premises.

To Speak to an Expert Now or arrange an engineers visit click here 

Legislation Overview

The main piece of legislation that governs fire safety in non-domestic premises in the UK is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, often abbreviated to RRO or FSO. This law replaced over 70 pieces of fire safety law and seeks to simplify matters by placing the responsibility for fire safety squarely on the shoulders of the person in control of the premises, known as the 'Responsible Person'.

The RRO stipulates that the Responsible Person must carry out a fire risk assessment, implement and maintain a fire management plan, and ensure that the necessary fire precautions are in place. These precautions include suitable fire detection systems and fire-fighting equipment, which includes fire extinguishers.

The British Standards Institution (BSI) also provides guidance in the form of BS 5306, which concerns the selection and positioning of portable fire extinguishers.

Understanding the ‘Responsible Person’

In the context of the RRO, the Responsible Person is typically the employer in a workplace. However, it could also be the owner, landlord, an occupier, or anyone else with control of the premises, such as a facilities manager, building manager, managing agent, or risk assessor.

The Responsible Person must ensure that a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out on the premises. If the premises are complex or large, this should be done by a competent person, such as a professional risk assessor.

Fire Extinguishers and Your Business

The RRO does not explicitly specify the number and type of fire extinguishers a business should have. However, it does require appropriate fire-fighting equipment for the specific risks in the premises. Guidance from the BSI recommends a minimum of two 'Class A' extinguishers on each storey of the premises. Class A extinguishers are for fires involving solid materials such as wood, paper, and fabric.

Moreover, if your risk assessment identifies other types of fire risks, you may need different types of extinguishers. For example, a 'Class B' extinguisher for flammable liquids, a 'Class C' extinguisher for gases, 'Class D' for metal fires, an 'Electrical' extinguisher for electrical equipment, and a 'Class F' extinguisher for cooking oils and fats.

Placement and Maintenance

Extinguishers should be conveniently located and readily accessible, ideally along escape routes and near room exits. They should also be properly signed so that people can easily identify their location.

Regular maintenance of fire extinguishers is crucial to ensure they function correctly when needed. Under the RRO, fire extinguishers should be subject to an annual 'extended service' by a competent person. Every five years, water, foam, and powder extinguishers require a 'discharge test', while CO2 extinguishers need a 'hydrostatic pressure test'.

Click here to find out more about our Fire Exitnguisher Maintenance services. 

Training

The RRO requires that staff are provided with adequate fire safety training. This should include training on how to use fire extinguishers properly. Remember, incorrect use of an extinguisher can be dangerous and may worsen the situation.

Conclusion

Compliance with UK Fire Extinguisher Legislation is not just a legal obligation but a commitment to the safety of your employees, customers, and business. By understanding and implementing these you clearly demonstrating that you are being responsible and safeguarding your business.