How often do I need maintenance for fire extinguishers?
Every 12 months. Maintenance for fire extinguishers for all commercial premises should be carried out every 12 month by a BAFE certified professional in order to comply with fire safety regulations.Maintenance for fire extinguishers is a crucial aspect of fire safety for any business or commercial premises. According to fire safety regulations, fire extinguishers must be inspected and maintained at least once every 12 months. This ensures that they remain in proper working condition and are ready for use in the event of an emergency. Regular maintenance helps identify and fix any potential issues, such as a loss of pressure, damage to the extinguisher’s components, or the expiration of the extinguishing agent. Failure to maintain fire extinguishers can result in them malfunctioning during a fire, which could have catastrophic consequences for property, business operations, and the safety of employees and visitors.
To comply with fire safety regulations, maintenance should be performed by a BAFE-certified professional. BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment) is an independent registration body for third-party certified fire protection companies in the UK. Their certification ensures that the professional conducting the inspection has the necessary expertise and training to properly service and maintain fire extinguishers in accordance with industry standards. By hiring a BAFE-certified technician, businesses can be confident that their fire extinguishers will be serviced to the highest level of safety and compliance.
During an annual inspection, the technician will conduct a thorough examination of the fire extinguisher to ensure that it is in good condition. This includes checking the pressure gauge, verifying that the pin and tamper seal are intact, inspecting the body for signs of corrosion or damage, and ensuring that the nozzle is clear of obstructions. The technician will also check the extinguisher’s label for the last service date and ensure it is still within the recommended service period. If any issues are found, the technician may either repair the extinguisher or recommend replacing it to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
In addition to annual maintenance, some fire extinguishers require more frequent checks depending on their location and type. For example, extinguishers stored in areas with harsh environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures or high humidity, may need to be inspected more frequently. Monthly visual checks are also recommended as part of a company’s regular fire safety protocol. These checks, which can be performed by a trained staff member, involve ensuring that the extinguisher is accessible, properly mounted, and shows no visible signs of damage or tampering.
Businesses that fail to carry out regular fire extinguisher maintenance not only risk non-compliance with fire safety regulations but also endanger the safety of their premises and employees. Fire extinguishers are a critical first line of defence in controlling small fires before they escalate. Without proper maintenance, the extinguisher may not function when needed, putting lives and property at risk.
In conclusion, fire extinguisher maintenance should be performed at least once every 12 months by a qualified BAFE-certified professional. Regular servicing ensures that extinguishers are in optimal working condition, comply with fire safety regulations, and are ready to be used in the event of a fire. By prioritising maintenance, businesses can ensure they meet legal requirements and, more importantly, safeguard the well-being of their employees and premises.
For more information on Maintenance for Fire Extinguishers contact Total Safe UK.
