Regular maintenance of fire extinguishers is an indispensable task for every UK business. This article will highlight the reasons why maintenance of this life-saving equipment is so crucial and why Morgan Fire Protection is your ultimate solution for regular maintenance in the UK.

The Role of Fire Extinguishers in Safety

Fire extinguishers are a vital part of any fire safety plan, providing an immediate line of defence against small fires. They can facilitate safe evacuation and even prevent a full-scale fire outbreak. However, their reliability is strongly tied to their state of maintenance.

Duty of the ‘Responsible Person’

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, stipulates that every workplace must have a ‘responsible person.’ This individual has the duty to ensure that all fire safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, are in an efficient state, in efficient working order, and in good repair. They must arrange for regular servicing from a competent organisation. As a responsible business owner, you must fulfil this obligation for the safety of your staff and property.

The Need for Professional Servicing

Fire extinguishers should be serviced by a competent person or organisation that will ensure they are in good working order. This service should be carried out at least once a year in accordance with BS 5306-3: 2017. The servicing organisation will also verify that the extinguisher type and location are correct, considering any changes in building and processes that might necessitate a different type of fire cover.

Expectations from a Fire Extinguisher Service

During a fire extinguisher service, the unit undergoes a thorough inspection for corrosion or discharge. Other checks include:

  • Verifying the unit’s good condition and checking for tampering.
  • Monitoring weight and pressure.
  • Checking the legibility of the instruction label.
  • Testing the safety device for correct operation.
  • Inspecting the hose for obstructions.
  • Confirming that it is the correct extinguisher for the risk.
  • Checking that the signs around the fire point are clearly visible and correct.

The Role of Visual Inspections

In addition to annual professional checks, fire extinguishers should be visually inspected at least once a month. This check will ensure each extinguisher is in its designated place, visible, easy to access, and that all seals are intact.

Consequences of Neglecting Maintenance

Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to several issues such as:

  • Corrosion: Fire extinguishers, typically made from aluminium or steel, can corrode and deteriorate over time due to pressure from the gas.
  • Tampering: Unauthorised use or meddling can render the extinguisher unfit for its purpose.
  • Hose blockage: The hose can get blocked with insects or debris, causing it to malfunction.
  • General wear: Over time, labels may fall off or fade, or the cylinder may get dented or rusted.
  • Leakage: A leak in the extinguisher can be detected by a change in its weight.

Ensuring Compliance with Fire Safety Regulations

Regular maintenance enables businesses to meet fire safety legislative requirements. Non-compliance can lead to legal penalties and in the event of a fire, can have disastrous consequences.

Preventing Costly Repairs with Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance can help identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems, saving businesses from costly repairs and replacements.

Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Service

When choosing a fire extinguisher maintenance service, businesses should consider factors such as the provider’s expertise, comprehensive service provision, transparency in pricing, and flexibility in service contracts.

Why Choose Morgan Fire Protection?

Morgan Fire Protection Ltd. is a leading provider of fire extinguisher maintenance services in the UK. With a team of BAFE SP101 accredited engineers, we offer meticulous inspections and servicing, handle everything from pressure checks to part replacements, and ensure proper signage.

Our transparent pricing eliminates surprises, and all small consumable parts are included in our quotes. We offer tailored service contracts to fit your needs without locking you into automatic renewals. With hundreds of 5-star reviews, we offer excellent service as standard for all works we complete. We serve businesses across the UK, providing prompt and reliable service wherever you are.

Conclusion

Regular fire extinguisher maintenance is essential for safeguarding businesses from fire hazards and ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations. With professional and reliable services such as those offered by Morgan Fire Protection Ltd., UK businesses can ensure the efficiency and reliability of their fire extinguishers, promoting a safe working environment.