Among the most essential pieces of fire safety equipment are fire extinguishers — compact, reliable tools designed to stop a small fire in its tracks before it escalates into something much more dangerous.
However, simply placing extinguishers on your premises is not enough. Business owners, landlords, and those responsible for fire safety must understand which types of extinguishers are appropriate and why regular maintenance is not only advisable but also a legal necessity in the United Kingdom.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of fire extinguishers commonly used across the UK, their correct applications, and what proper maintenance entails. This knowledge is vital for protecting lives, property, and ensuring compliance with fire safety legislation.
Why Fire Extinguishers Matter in Business Premises
Fire extinguishers are often the first line of defence in a fire emergency. They offer a practical and immediate solution to small fires, allowing trained staff to act quickly before a blaze gets out of control.
But their effectiveness depends entirely on two factors:
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The right type of extinguisher being used for the right kind of fire
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Regular maintenance ensuring they are in full working order
Failure in either area could lead to devastating consequences, including injury, loss of life, severe property damage, business disruption, and legal action.
Understanding the Different Types of Fire Extinguishers
The UK classifies fires into distinct categories based on the materials involved. Fire extinguishers are colour-coded and labelled to match these fire types. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
Water Fire Extinguishers
Colour code: Red
Suitable for: Class A fires – solid materials like paper, wood, and textiles
Not suitable for: Electrical fires, flammable liquids, cooking oils
Commonly used in: Offices, schools, public buildings
Water extinguishers work by cooling the burning material, removing the heat element needed for the fire to continue.
Foam Fire Extinguishers
Colour code: Cream
Suitable for: Class A and Class B fires – solids and flammable liquids (e.g., petrol, paints)
Not suitable for: Electrical fires unless clearly marked
Commonly used in: Warehouses, garages, factories
Foam extinguishers create a film that smothers the fire and prevents re-ignition.
CO₂ (Carbon Dioxide) Fire Extinguishers
Colour code: Black
Suitable for: Electrical fires and Class B fires
Not suitable for: Class A fires, confined spaces (risk of asphyxiation)
Commonly used in: Offices, server rooms, electrical installations
CO₂ extinguishers work by displacing oxygen, effectively suffocating the fire without leaving residue.
Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers
Colour code: Blue
Suitable for: Class A, B, and C fires (solids, liquids, and gases), and electrical fires
Not suitable for: Confined indoor spaces due to visibility and respiratory issues
Commonly used in: Garages, workshops, petrol stations, vehicles
Often called ABC extinguishers, they are versatile but can cause damage to electronics and surfaces.
Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers
Colour code: Yellow
Suitable for: Class F fires – cooking oils and fats
Also effective on: Class A fires
Commonly used in: Commercial kitchens, restaurants, takeaways
Wet chemical extinguishers react with hot oil to form a soapy layer, cooling the fire and sealing off the fuel source.
Legal Requirements for UK Businesses
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all UK businesses are required to carry out a fire risk assessment and take steps to reduce fire risks. One critical responsibility is ensuring that fire-fighting equipment such as extinguishers is both appropriate and properly maintained.
Fire extinguisher servicing and maintenance must be carried out in accordance with British Standard BS 5306-3:2017, which includes the following requirements:
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Annual servicing by a “competent person”
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Regular visual inspections (recommended monthly or weekly)
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Extended servicing every 5 years (e.g., internal inspection and refilling for water/foam extinguishers)
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Pressure testing every 10 years for CO₂ extinguishers
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Clear maintenance records to demonstrate compliance
Failure to comply with these regulations could result in enforcement action, invalidated insurance policies, or prosecution if a fire-related incident occurs.
What Happens During a Fire Extinguisher Service?
Annual servicing is more than just a box-ticking exercise. When carried out by a qualified fire safety technician, the following checks are typically performed:
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Inspection for external damage, corrosion, and tampering
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Pressure gauge checks or weighing (for CO₂ units)
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Verification that the safety pin and seal are intact
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Testing of nozzles, hoses, and valves for blockages or deterioration
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Ensuring the extinguisher is clearly labelled and located correctly
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Updating of the service tag and provision of a maintenance report
Extended servicing involves complete discharge, internal inspection, and refilling or component replacement if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the most safety-conscious businesses can fall foul of fire extinguisher regulations due to a lack of understanding. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
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Incorrect extinguisher type: Having water extinguishers near electrical equipment, for example, is a serious hazard.
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Lapsed servicing: Neglecting annual checks can lead to inoperable equipment.
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Blocked or hidden extinguishers: Extinguishers should always be clearly visible and easily accessible.
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No staff training: Employees should be trained on how to safely use fire extinguishers in the event of an emergency.
The Benefits of Proactive Maintenance
Keeping your fire extinguishers in top condition goes beyond legal compliance — it’s an investment in safety and operational resilience. Benefits include:
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Peace of mind knowing your equipment will perform when needed
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Improved safety for staff, visitors, and the public
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Lower insurance risks and improved claim eligibility
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Reinforced reputation as a responsible business
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Extended equipment lifespan, reducing replacement costs
Partnering with Morgan Fire
At Morgan Fire, we provide comprehensive fire extinguisher maintenance and servicing for businesses across the UK. Our qualified technicians ensure your equipment is:
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Compliant with current regulations
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In full working order
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Suited to your premises and specific fire risks
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Clearly documented with full service history
Whether you operate from a single shopfront or manage multiple sites, our tailored solutions help protect what matters most.
Final Thoughts
Understanding fire extinguisher types and ensuring regular maintenance isn’t just best practice — it’s a legal requirement and a crucial part of any workplace safety plan. The risks of neglect are too great, and the steps to stay compliant are entirely manageable with the right support.
Don’t leave your fire safety to chance. Contact Morgan Fire today to arrange a professional assessment or schedule your annual fire extinguisher service.
