Sam Crudgington

Talking to our customers, we find that there are a whole lot of fire extinguisher myths. In fact, there are plenty of myths which fly around regarding fire safety in general. Whilst most of them are harmless, there are some myths which can be dangerous if they feed misinformation.

In this blog entry, we look at some of the myths surrounding fire extinguishers and signal whether the are true or not. Hopefully, this will help our readers to stay knowledgeable, but most importantly safe, when it comes to this subject.

 

Fire extinguisher myths:

Myth 1. Fire Extinguishers must be replaced every 10 years. Fire Extinguisher myths Total Safe UK Essex and the South East fire safety ervices fire safety solutions

Strictly speaking this is untrue. There is actually no statutory maximum service life for an extinguisher. Most companies, however, cap this at the 20-year limit. In practice though, an extinguisher can continue in service indefinitely all the while: 

  • All parts remain available
  • The extinguisher has no damage, defect or corrosion, rendering it unsafe for use
  • It is not an obsolescent type
  • It is services, including extended services, as required

Myth 2. If a fire extinguisher hasn’t been serviced for a few years, it needs to be replaced.

Again, this is untrue. However, it does mean that a service is all the more urgent! As long as replacement parts are available and it passes its basic or extended service, overhaul (as required) and it is not obsolescent so can continue to be used. Fire extinguisher maintenance should be carried out annually. 

Myth 3. Old colour coded extinguishers are obsolete and must be replaced

False. Many pre-BS EN3 extinguishers do still have suitable spares and parts available so can, therefore, continue in service, if they are in serviceable condition.

Myth 4. Fire extinguishers must be replaced at their 5 yearly extended service intervals as it’s not cost effective to carry this out.

Not true! What people mean when they tell you this, it that its too time consuming for them to carry out this test, so they’d rather just replace it! In reality, the actual cost of carrying out an extended service is less than replacement (particularly for water and foam extinguishers).

Myth 5. Stainless steel/chrome/polished finish extinguishers are illegal

False. Although they cannot be kit marked to BS EN3 due to their colour, they are perfectly legal as long as new models are CE marked.  Also, in environments where aesthetics are important, these extinguishers are more often than not, the extinguisher of choice as a result of their look. A competent Fire Risk Assessment will justify their use, usually where appropriate signage and staff awareness in place. Therefore, if the can be justified, they can be used. 

Myth 6. CO2 extinguishers must have a 5 year extended service. fire extinguisher myths total safe UK Essex South East fire safety services fir safety solutions

For a short time, servicing standards did require this. However, after a while it was revised as not required or of value.

These are just a few of the many fire extinguisher myths around. Any information you are told, you should always check this through with a professional. Bare in mind, misinformation from friends, colleagues etc can be dangerous if not true. Call us today to discuss any questions you may have on this topic on 01375 265950 or email [email protected].