FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
It is mandatory within the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 that fire extinguishers are required in all buildings. A minimum of 2 extinguishers suitable for Class A fire risk are generally present, per floor, and should be clearly marked and accessible at all times.
Probably the most easily recognisable piece of fire safety equipment, fire extinguishers usually represent the first line of defence in the event of a fire. We can help you identify the types you will require as part of an overall fire risk assessment, and supply and maintain them, or take over maintenance of sytems we have not installed, and provide you with a trusted continued service.
- Supply of leading brand extinguishers
- In-service inspection and certification
- Employee extinguisher training
- Full on-going maintenance/support contracts
Choosing Fire Extinguishers
Fire Extinguishers Types
Fire extinguishers are available in different types, with each one having specific fire classes that they are suitable for use on. Fire extinguishers meeting the current British Standards (BS EN3) should have a red body (RAL 3000) and an agent specific colour band, covering between 5-10% of the surface, relating to the extinguisher contents.
When choosing which fire extinguisher is most suitable for your needs in a given premises, a fire risk assessment is the safest way to help you to identify the fire risks and hence exactly which extinguisher would be needed should a fire happen.
Fire extinguishers come in many sizes some more suitable for commercial purposes, but they are just as important in the home, caravans, cars, boats, and many other places where fire can present danger.
Fire Types
Water extinguishers are used on Class A fires involving solid combustibles. They are not suitable for fires fuelled by flammable liquids or where electricity is involved.
AFFF Foam is a versatile fire extinguisher which can be used for Class A and B fires. The foam agent helps to prevent re-ignition.
CO2 fire extinguishers are used for fires involving electrical apparatus. CO2 is not a conductor and does not leave behind any harmful residue.
Dry powder extinguishers can be used on Class A, B, C and electrical fires. Dry powder is not recommended for use inside because there is a risk of inhalation. It can obscure vision and cause damage to goods and machinery.
Wet chemical extinguishers are for fires involving cooking fats and oils. They are most suitable for use in restaurants and kitchens. They usually have an additional class A rating.
Extinguisher Servicing
To provide compliance with BS 5306, fire extinguishers should be serviced annually, and it is the duty of the site owners or responsible person to organise this. They should also be supplied with an in-service inspection record on the initial purchase.
Before the fire extinguisher is ready to use it is essential to
- Attach the discharge nozzle if it is not already fitted
- Check the pressure gauge is in the green
- Check the extinguisher for corrosion or obvious damage
- Weigh the extinguisher and record on the maintenance label
Only when a fire extinguisher has been properly commissioned to BS5306 standard can you use the certification document, as proof that you have fulfilled your responsibility in accordance with your fire risk assessment.
Fire Extinguisher Training
Feel confident using a fire extinguisher in case of an emergency by getting the proper training in how to use it.
Fire extinguishers are a legal and important part of your fire safety. In workplaces most people should know where thy are located by fire exits, and where the rallying point is in the event of an emergency. However, it’s even more important for staff to know how to operate and manage a fire by using extinguishers.
Westcountry Fire Protection can assist you by providing a course for your employees, giving you peace of mind. Your staff members or colleagues will be able to identify various fire types and know how to tackle them to prevent a fire becoming out of control.
