How often do Fire Extinguishers need to be tested?

Fire extinguishers are vital safety tools in our workplaces and homes (such as HMOs or flats). But just like any other piece of equipment, they need regular maintenance to function properly in an emergency. In this post, we aim to explain and answer the question "How often do Fire Extinguishers need to be maintained / tested?".

Before we do that, there are some other key questions to answer:

Is it a legal requirement to test my fire extinguishers?

Under the requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, it is a legal requirement that a maintenance plan be in place for all fire safety equipment, including fire extinguishers.

Quote from the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005:

The word "must" in this section of the legislation means that the requirement to maintain your Fire Extinguishers is obligatory & failure to do so would be a breach of this legislation. 

What standard should my fire extinguishers be tested to?

While we now know that the maintenance of extinguishers is a legal requirement, knowing what standard they should be tested too is another question in itself.

BS 5306, is the British Standard in relation to fire extinguishers, split into two parts:

• BS5306 part 3, for the Commissioning and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers
• BS5306 part 8 Selection and positioning of portable fire extinguishers.

A British Standard, is a document, established by consensus and approved by a recognised body. It provides rules, guidelines or characteristics for activities or their results so that they can be repeated. The aim is to achieve the greatest degree of order in a given context.

Servicing your fire extinguishers in accordance with the requirements of BS5306, allows you to ensure that the highest of industry standards have been followed, and therefore provide evidence you are meeting the legal requirements detailed above.

How often do Fire extinguishers need to be maintained?

Monthly Fire Extinguisher Testing Requirements:

Regular visual checks are crucial to catching any potential issues early on. BS 5306-3 states that “visual inspections should be carried out [by the Responsible Person] at least once a month. When circumstances require, inspections should be carried out more frequently.” - Clause 11.2 Instructions for visual inspection.

So, here's a checklist to guide you through your monthly fire extinguisher inspection:

Location, Location, Location:  Make sure the extinguisher is clearly visible and readily accessible, with no obstacles blocking the way.

Damage Check: Look for any signs of physical damage like dents, corrosion, or leaks. This could indicate internal problems affecting functionality.

Pressure Gauge: The pressure gauge is typically a green zone. If the needle falls outside this safe zone, the extinguisher might not function properly.

Feeling the Weight: While not a definitive test, carefully lifting the extinguisher can give you a general sense of fullness. Significant weight loss might indicate a leak.

Label Lookout:  Check that all tags and labels are present, legible, and haven't been tampered with. These labels contain vital information about the extinguisher and its service history.

Handle with Care: Ensure the handle is secure and not broken or loose. A faulty handle can hinder your ability to operate the extinguisher effectively in an emergency.

Pin and Seal Security:  The tamper seal and locking pin prevent accidental discharge. Verify that both are intact and haven't been tampered with.

Hose and Nozzle Check: Inspect the hose for any cracks, tears, or blockages.  Look at the nozzle as well, ensuring it's free of obstructions and appears in good condition.

Record Keeping is Key: Documenting your monthly inspections is crucial. Maintaining a logbook allows you to track any potential issues and ensures a smooth process during professional servicing.

If any of the above items do not pass your checks, report it to your fire extinguisher maintenance company, who can then investigate further.

Remember, a well-maintained fire extinguisher can make all the difference in an emergency.  By incorporating these simple monthly checks into your routine, you're taking a proactive step towards fire safety in your home or workplace.

Annual Fire Extinguisher Servicing / Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Requirements:

The British Standard for fire extinguishers, BS 5306-3 (Clause 6 - Table 1), states the maintenance intervals for each type of fire extinguisher.

This annual inspection, should be completed by a comptent, suitablly qualified and ideally a third party accredited company such as SAFE I.S., who are third party accreidited by BAFE to SP101 requirements.

As an overview, the full-service process as detailed in BS5306. 

• Ensure each fire extinguisher's pressure is correct (not too high or low).
• Check the weight of the extinguisher against the manufacturer's recommendations. 
• Replace all necessary small consumable parts, such as "o" rings and tags. (Included as standard in our costs)
• Ensure all hoses/horns are clear of obstruction and free from damage.
• Ensure the body of the fire extinguisher is in the correct condition (free of rust/damage).
• Ensure each extinguisher is free of obstructions.
• Ensure each fire extinguisher's instructions are clear and distinguishable.
• Ensure each fire extinguisher is correctly mounted with the correct signage.
• Ensure each fire extinguisher is clean.
• Report any non-compliances, such units due to discharge tests or failures.
• Complete and provide the required paperwork to the client.
• Create a full asset register detailing the location, extinguisher type, condition upon testing, and any relevant notes.

Additional Requirements:

The British Standard for fire extinguishers, BS 5306-3 (Clause 6 - Table 1), also requires additional works to be completed, by way of an extended service or overhaul at set time periods, dependant on the type of fire extinguisher.

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to confidently manage your fire extinguisher maintenance. By understanding the recommended service schedules and conducting regular visual inspections, you're ensuring your extinguishers are ready to act as your first line of defence in a fire emergency.

Remember, fire safety is a shared responsibility. With this newfound knowledge, you can contribute to a safer environment for yourself, your loved ones, or your colleagues.

Remember, a well-maintained fire extinguisher can make all the difference in an emergency. By incorporating these simple monthly checks into your routine and organising the annual fire extinguisher testing, you're taking a proactive step towards fire safety.

So, who should I select to maintain my fire extinguishers annually?

As the person or team appointed responsible for fire safety in your building (Responsible Person/Duty Holder), it is important to demonstrate you have acted with due diligence to source a quality provider for these works. With this in mind, BAFE strongly recommends using an appropriately Third Party Certificated provider and operate a scheme called SP101. BAFE SP101, is used to assess the competency of portable fire extinguisher organisations and their employed fire extinguisher technicians.  It exists to provide quality evidence that companies are competent (and operate an effective management system) to cover all aspects of this service and the fire extinguisher technicians they employ are competent to deliver appropriate services including, sourcing, commissioning, siting and maintenance and servicing. 

Companies such as SAFE I.S. who are accredited to BAFE SP101 must ensure that their employed fire extinguisher technicians are appropriately trained and possess the skills to complete this work. This includes on-site assessment, regulator auditing and detailed systems in place to ensure maintenance is completed to the highest of standards.

Still unsure of what action to take?

If you need any assistance with this or you require expert fire extinguisher maintenance, you can reach the team here at SAFE I.S., As a nationwide fire extinguisher maintenance company, third party accredited to BAFE SP101, we are certain we can help answer any questions you may have or support you in undertaking your annual fire extinguisher maintenance.

So feel free to contact us on 0800 933 3580 or via email at sales@safeis.co.uk.