Fire Extinguishers

Types of Fire Extinguishers Required

Choosing a suitable fire extinguisher for your premises in Sheffield is essential for ensuring that fire risks are addressed appropriately. Different fire hazards require specific extinguishers, and having the correct type available can make all the difference in an emergency.

Water Extinguishers: These are suitable for Class A fires involving wood, paper, and textiles. They work by cooling the flames, reducing the temperature, and stopping the fire from spreading.

• Foam Extinguishers: Effective for both Class A and Class B fires, foam extinguishers are ideal for tackling flammable liquids like petrol, oil, or solvents. They also work on wood and textiles, providing versatile fire-fighting power.
• CO2 Extinguishers: These are primarily used for Class B fires, specifically those involving flammable liquids, and are also effective against electrical fires. CO2 extinguishers displace the oxygen around the fire, suffocating it without leaving any residue, which makes them ideal for use around sensitive equipment.
• Dry Powder Extinguishers: Known as multi-purpose extinguishers, they are suitable for Class A, B, and C fires, which include combustible gases. They can also be used on electrical fires, making them a good choice for diverse environments with varied fire risks.
• Wet Chemical Extinguishers: These extinguishers are essential for kitchens and food preparation areas and are explicitly designed for Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats. They create a cooling foam that forms a barrier over the burning oil, preventing re-ignition.

Number and Placement of Extinguishers

Determining the correct number of fire extinguishers and their placement in your Sheffield property is critical to meeting fire safety regulations and ensuring protection across the premises. The general rule for Class A extinguishers is to have at least two on every floor, but the exact number will depend on the size and layout of the building.

• General Formula Based on Building Size: To calculate how many 9-litre water extinguishers (or their equivalent) you need, divide your building’s total floor area (in square metres) by 200 and round up. This ensures coverage based on the size of the premises.
• Class A Extinguisher Placement: It’s recommended to place at least two Class A fire extinguishers on each floor. These extinguishers’ strategic placement ensures they are readily accessible during a fire.
• The 30-Metre Rule: UK fire safety regulations stipulate that no one in the building should be more than 30 metres away from the nearest fire extinguisher. This ensures quick access in an emergency, reducing the time it takes for occupants to respond to a fire.
• Considerations for Electrical Equipment: If your building contains electrical equipment, you should install at least one CO2 extinguisher. For equipment rated at 415 volts or higher, a 5kg CO2 extinguisher is recommended. This provides targeted protection for electrical risks, complementing the other fire safety measures.

Maintenance and Servicing of Fire Extinguishers

To comply with UK fire safety regulations, regular maintenance and servicing of fire extinguishers are essential to ensure they are in proper working condition when needed. A well-maintained fire extinguisher can be the difference between a minor incident and a major disaster, so adherence to these guidelines is crucial.

• Annual Servicing by a Competent Person: According to UK regulations, all fire extinguishers must be serviced annually by a qualified and competent person. This professional service ensures that the extinguishers meet legal standards and are fully operational in an emergency. During this service, the technician will check for any signs of damage, pressure loss, or parts that need replacing.
• Monthly Visual Inspections by the Property Manager or Owner: In addition to annual servicing, it is recommended that property managers or owners conduct monthly visual inspections. These checks ensure that the extinguishers are easily accessible, not damaged, and have not been tampered with. This routine inspection can catch issues early and prevent a faulty extinguisher from being missed during an emergency.
• Guidelines for Replacing or Servicing Extinguishers Every 5 to 10 Years: Fire extinguishers have a lifespan, and depending on the type, they should be replaced or fully serviced every 5 to 10 years. For instance, water and foam extinguishers generally need replacement or overhaul after five years, while CO2 extinguishers can last up to 10 years. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines ensures compliance and safety.

Legal Requirements for Fire Extinguishers in Sheffield

Fire safety regulations in Sheffield are governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which requires business owners, property managers, and landlords to ensure appropriate fire safety measures are in place.

Compliance with these legal obligations is essential to avoid penalties and, more importantly, to protect the lives of occupants and staff.

• Conducting a Fire Risk Assessment: The first legal obligation under the Fire Safety Order is conducting a thorough fire risk assessment. This assessment identifies potential fire hazards, evaluates the risk to people in the building, and outlines the necessary steps to mitigate those risks. It must be conducted regularly, mainly when building changes or usage occur. Failure to complete this assessment can result in fines or even imprisonment in severe cases.
• Providing and Maintaining Appropriate Fire-Fighting Equipment: As the responsible person, you must provide appropriate fire-fighting equipment, including fire extinguishers, that match the specific risks of your premises. It’s not just about having the correct type of extinguisher; you must ensure that the equipment is regularly maintained and serviced, per UK regulations. This includes adhering to placement and accessibility guidelines.
• Training Staff on the Use of Fire Extinguishers: In addition to providing the right equipment, the Fire Safety Order requires that staff be trained in fire safety procedures and the correct use of fire extinguishers. This ensures that trained personnel can act quickly and appropriately during a fire, reducing the risk of injury and damage. Your fire safety plan should include regular fire drills and training sessions.

Fire Extinguishers Annual Professional Maintenance

Different types of fire extinguishers require different types of testing and maintenance. Scaitec Fire & Security Solutions are professionals in the field and will conduct such maintenance in accordance with British Standard BS 5306. Annual inspections are recommended or more frequent for high-risk locations or corrosive environments. The inspection will involve a detailed inspection of every fire extinguisher. Identification of those extinguishers that need replacing, depressurising or replacement parts.

Don’t wait for your local authorities to threaten you with legal action. Call Scaitec Fire & Security Solutions on 01709 761007. Let us take care of all your fire safety equipment requirements.