When it comes to fire safety, few pieces of equipment are as immediately recognisable – or as vital – as the fire extinguisher. Found in offices, shops, schools, warehouses, and almost every other workplace across the UK, extinguishers are a first line of defence when fire breaks out. Yet, like any safety device, they are only effective if they are properly maintained.
As we move into 2026, ensuring that fire extinguishers are regularly serviced should be a top priority for businesses. Not only does this help to keep staff and premises safe, but it also ensures compliance with fire safety legislation and gives peace of mind that, if the worst should happen, equipment will work as intended.
Why Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Matters
Fire extinguishers are not just a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 – they are a life-saving tool. In the critical first few seconds of a fire, a correctly maintained extinguisher can prevent a small incident from becoming a major emergency.
Regular maintenance ensures:
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Reliability – Equipment will discharge properly when needed.
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Compliance – Businesses meet their legal obligations.
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Safety – Faulty or damaged extinguishers can pose risks in themselves.
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Cost-effectiveness – Well-maintained extinguishers last longer, reducing the need for replacements.
Without regular checks, extinguishers may lose pressure, become damaged, or simply expire past their usable lifespan.
The Legal Requirements in the UK
The law requires businesses to provide suitable fire extinguishers on their premises and to keep them in good working order. British Standard BS 5306-3 sets out the requirements for the maintenance of portable fire extinguishers.
In practice, this means:
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Monthly checks carried out by the “responsible person” to ensure extinguishers are accessible, properly mounted, and free from damage.
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Annual servicing by a qualified technician, who inspects, tests, and certifies each unit.
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Extended servicing or replacement typically every five years for most extinguishers, and every ten years for CO₂ units.
Failure to comply can result in penalties, but more importantly, it can leave people unprotected in the event of fire.
Why 2026 Is the Year to Get Ahead
January is often a quieter month for many businesses, making it the ideal time to schedule annual fire extinguisher servicing. Starting the year with compliant, reliable equipment means one less thing to worry about as workloads increase later.
In addition, fire safety guidance evolves. By ensuring that extinguishers are checked by professionals in 2026, you can be confident that you are meeting the latest standards and that any outdated or unsuitable equipment is quickly identified.
What a Professional Service Includes
When a trained engineer carries out fire extinguisher maintenance, the process is much more thorough than a simple visual check. A typical service includes:
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Visual Inspection
Checking for dents, corrosion, leaks, or tampering. -
Weight and Pressure Check
Ensuring extinguishers are within their correct operating range. -
Inspection of Seals and Safety Pins
Making sure devices are intact and tamper-proof. -
Testing of Components
Hoses, nozzles, and discharge mechanisms are tested for reliability. -
Certification
A record is provided to prove compliance – essential for audits, landlords, and insurers. -
Recommendations
Advising on whether units should be refilled, serviced further, or replaced entirely.
The Risks of Neglecting Maintenance
It may be tempting to view fire extinguishers as equipment that simply “sits on the wall” and rarely needs attention. However, neglecting maintenance can have serious consequences:
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Failure in an Emergency – An extinguisher that doesn’t work could allow a controllable fire to spread.
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Invalid Insurance Claims – Insurers may refuse to pay out if fire safety equipment was not maintained.
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Legal Penalties – Enforcement officers can issue fines or take action against non-compliant businesses.
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Increased Costs – Small issues left unchecked can lead to premature replacement of equipment.
Beyond Compliance: Building a Safer Workplace
Regular fire extinguisher servicing is not only about ticking boxes. It demonstrates a business’s commitment to safety and provides reassurance to staff and visitors alike. Employees who know that fire safety measures are being taken seriously are likely to feel more secure and confident at work.
It also integrates seamlessly into a wider fire safety strategy, complementing measures such as fire risk assessments, fire alarms, and emergency lighting. Together, these form a robust approach to preventing and managing fire incidents.
Choosing a Professional Partner
Working with a reputable fire protection company ensures that extinguishers are maintained to the highest standards. A qualified technician will not only carry out the necessary checks but also advise on the correct type and placement of extinguishers for your premises.
For example, different environments require different extinguisher types – water, foam, CO₂, powder, or wet chemical. Using the wrong type can be ineffective or even dangerous. A professional partner ensures you always have the right equipment, in the right place, ready for use.
Making Maintenance a Priority in 2026
As businesses focus on new goals for the year, it is easy for safety checks to be pushed down the to-do list. However, fire extinguisher maintenance should remain a top priority. Scheduling it early in the year provides assurance that you are compliant, prepared, and protected.
By treating fire extinguisher servicing as an essential, recurring task, you avoid last-minute scrambles, reduce the risk of fines, and most importantly, keep people safe.
Final Thoughts
Fire extinguishers are simple yet essential tools in any fire safety strategy. But they only serve their purpose if they are properly maintained. In 2026, make fire extinguisher servicing a non-negotiable part of your business planning.
Regular maintenance not only keeps you compliant with British law but also safeguards lives, assets, and operations. By working with a qualified fire protection partner, you can be confident that your extinguishers will be ready to perform when they are needed most.
For expert help with all aspects of fire safety, including fire risk assessments, fire extinguisher maintenance, emergency lighting, and fire alarm servicing, contact Morgan Fire today on 0800 0856381. Our experienced team is here to keep your business compliant and protected throughout 2026.
