Fire extinguishers are one of the most important safety tools in homes, workplaces and public spaces. So, why must fire extinguishers be routinely maintained? Well, they act as the first line of defence against small fires, helping to prevent them from spreading and causing serious damage.  

If they’re forgotten about, they might not work when you need them most. Regular checks and servicing keep them in top condition and, more importantly, keep you and others safe. Plus, it’s a legal requirement, so staying on top of maintenance is essential. 

What are some of the common issues with fire extinguishers? 

Fire extinguishers are sturdy, but they aren’t invincible. Here are some common issues that can stop them from working properly: 

Rust 

Fire extinguishers are usually made from strong metals like steel or aluminium to handle the pressure inside. However, over time, they can corrode or rust, which weakens the structure and could lead to failure. 

Clogged nozzles 

Dirt, dust and even tiny insects can block the nozzle or hose, stopping the extinguishing agent from coming out properly when needed. 

Pressure loss 

Fire extinguishers need the right amount of pressure to work effectively. If the pressure drops due to a leak, improper storage or a faulty seal, it won’t discharge properly in an emergency. 

Leaks 

Leaks can happen for several reasons, including old age, damage or exposure to extreme temperatures. During routine checks, professionals weigh the extinguisher to see if it has lost more than 10% of its weight – if it has, that may be a sign that there’s a leak. 

General wear and tear 

Like anything else, fire extinguishers can get worn out over time. Scratched labels, dents or fading instructions might seem minor, but they can cause serious problems if someone can’t read the label or if the extinguisher is damaged beyond use. 

What is fire extinguisher maintenance? 

Fire extinguisher maintenance in the UK follows British Standard BS 5306, which is split into two key areas: 

• BS 5306-3: Covers the commissioning and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers. 

• BS 5306-8: Focuses on selecting and positioning fire extinguishers. 

Following these standards ensures that your extinguishers are in the best possible condition and that you’re meeting legal requirements. There are four types of checks: 

Monthly self-checks 

A quick visual check every month helps spot early signs of problems. If something doesn’t look right, it’s best to call in an expert straight away. 

Annual service 

On top of monthly checks, an annual service is required. Not matter the type of fire extinguisher you have, it should be inspected every 12 months.  

Extended service 

If you have a water-based, powder or powder-primary sealed extinguisher, a full service is needed every five years. 

Overhaul 

For clean agent, halon or CO2 extinguishers, a full overhaul is required every ten years. 

How to ensure fire extinguishers remain effective  

Fire extinguishers are the first line of defence when it comes to preventing the spread of fire and are a critical part of a comprehensive fire safety plan, therefore ensuring they remain effective could literally be a case of life and death. Here are some things you should look out for… 

Monthly self-checks 

Look out for the following when doing your checks: 

• Can you reach it easily? Ensure the extinguisher isn’t blocked and is in an accessible location 

• Is it in the right place? Check that it’s correctly mounted and hasn’t been moved 

• Is the pressure gauge in the green? If it’s in the red, it may need servicing 

• Has it been tampered with? Ensure the safety pin is still in place and the tamper seal is intact 

• Does it look damaged? Rust, dents or cracks could make the extinguisher unreliable 

• Can you read the label? If the instructions have faded, it might be time for a replacement 

• Is the hose or nozzle blocked? Make sure nothing is stopping the extinguishing agent from coming out 

• Does it look like the powder is clumping? For powder extinguishers, give it a gentle shake or turn it upside down to stop the powder from clumping 

Annual inspection 

A licensed fire extinguisher servicing company will carry out annual inspections to ensure they are working properly. They will: 

• Check the inside and outside of the extinguisher 

• Fix any minor issues, such as clogged nozzles or low-pressure readings 

• Refill or recharge the extinguisher if needed 

• Perform pressure tests to make sure it can still handle an emergency 

• Weigh the extinguisher to check for leaks 

• Attach a service tag to record the inspection date 

What regulations are there for fire extinguishers? 

The Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005 (FSO) applies to all non-domestic buildings, including offices, shops, warehouses and rental properties. Under this law, the ‘responsible person’ (such as a business owner, landlord or employer) must ensure that proper fire safety measures are in place. These include: 

• Keeping enough fire extinguishers on-site 

• Ensuring they are properly maintained 

• Arranging for annual servicing by a certified professional 

Ignoring fire safety regulations can lead to serious consequences, including: 

• Heavy fines 

• Business closure 

• Possible imprisonment 

• Liability for injuries or damage caused by a fire 

Next steps 

Understanding why fire extinguishers must be routinely maintained is key to ensuring safety in your home, workplace, or public space. Regular maintenance not only helps prevent potential hazards but also keeps you legally compliant. 

For more information about fire extinguishers, including the bigger picture scenario of your building’s fire safety strategy, don’t hesitate to contact us.