Fire Extinguishers Repairing And Servicing is not only a safety necessity but also a legal requirement under UK fire safety laws. According to British Standards (BS 5306-3:2017), all fire extinguishers in commercial premises, public buildings, and businesses must be serviced once a year by a competent person, typically a BAFE qualified technician. Failure to comply can lead to severe consequences, including insurance claim denial in the event of a fire.

How Often Should Fire Extinguishers Be Serviced?

• Annual Fire Extinguisher Service: All fire extinguishers must be inspected and serviced once every 12 months.
• Extended Service (Every 5 Years): Water, foam, and dry powder extinguishers must undergo a more detailed, extended service every five years.
• CO2 Extinguishers Overhaul: CO2 fire extinguishers require a complete overhaul after 10 years due to the pressure nature of their canisters.

Important: If a fire extinguisher is damaged, discharged, or missing parts, it must be replaced or refilled immediately, regardless of its service date.

Fire Extinguisher Visual Checks You Can Perform Yourself

In addition to the annual servicing, the responsible person or fire warden should carry out weekly or monthly fire extinguisher checks. These are simple visual inspections to ensure all units are in place and functional:

• Ensure the fire extinguisher is in its designated location.
• Check that it’s not obstructed or used as a door stop.
• Confirm the signage is correct and visible.
• Look for any signs of tampering or damage.
• Make sure the pressure gauge (if applicable) is in the green zone.

These routine checks help identify issues early, improving overall fire safety compliance.

What Happens During a Fire Extinguisher Service?

When a certified engineer performs a professional fire extinguisher inspection, they typically check the following:

• Is the fire extinguisher in date?
• Is the body and casing in good visual condition?
• Is the hose and nozzle intact and functional?
• Are the operating instructions legible?
• Has the security seal or tamper tag been broken?
• Is the safety pin operational and in place?
• Is the weight and pressure correct according to manufacturer specs?

After inspection, your technician will provide a detailed report of the fire extinguisher condition, advise if any need repairing or replacing, and ensure you meet British Standards and Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requirements.

Why Choose a Certified Fire Extinguisher Engineer?

Only a trained, competent person—preferably BAFE certified—is legally authorized to carry out fire extinguisher servicing. They ensure that each unit meets UK safety standards, helping businesses stay compliant and protected.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a business owner, landlord, or facilities manager, staying up-to-date with fire extinguisher maintenance, repairing, and servicing is crucial. Routine checks and annual professional servicing help prevent fire risks, protect lives, and maintain insurance validity.