Fire extinguishers are one of the most visible and essential components of workplace fire safety. They play a critical role in protecting lives, minimising property damage, and helping businesses remain compliant with fire safety legislation in the UK. However, many landlords, business owners, and property managers are unsure about which extinguishers are suitable for their premises, how many they need, or how to maintain them properly.
Using the wrong extinguisher or neglecting maintenance can put people at serious risk, and in some cases, can make a fire worse. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about fire extinguishers in the UK, including types, legal requirements, placement, maintenance, and staff training, as well as how FireRiskAssessments.com can help you meet your fire safety compliance obligations.
Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Uses
Choosing the right type of fire extinguisher is vital for fire safety in the workplace. Using an inappropriate extinguisher can be ineffective or even dangerous. Here’s a breakdown of common extinguisher types used across UK businesses:
| Extinguisher Type | Colour Label | Suitable For | Do Not Use On |
| Water | Red | Paper, wood, textiles | Electrical equipment, flammable liquids |
| Water mist | Red | Paper, wood, textiles & electrical up to 1000V | Formal certification for class B & C is limited |
| Foam | Cream | Soft furnishings, flammable liquids | Live electrical equipment, cooking oil/fat fires |
| CO₂ | Black | Electrical fires | Solid combustibles |
| Dry Powder | Blue | Most fire classes (multi-purpose) | NOTE – Can reduce visibility and air quality indoors |
| Wet Chemical | Yellow | Cooking oils & deep fat fryers | Electrical or flammable liquids |
Every business in the UK should select fire extinguishers based on the hazards identified in the premises by a Fire Risk Assessment, ensuring they are suitable for the types of fire most likely to occur.
Legal Responsibilities for Fire Extinguishers in England and Wales
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all workplaces are legally required to have suitable fire extinguishers (where appropriate). The Responsible Person – typically the business owner, landlord, or building manager – must ensure:
- Fire extinguishers are appropriate for the premises and fire risks
- They are easily accessible and visible
- Extinguishers are regularly maintained and serviced by a competent person
- Staff are trained in their use
Failure to comply with fire safety legislation can result in:
- Legal action and fines
- Increased insurance liability
- Risk of injury or loss of life
Ensuring fire safety compliance is not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility to protect staff, tenants, and visitors.
Common Fire Extinguisher Mistakes
Even when businesses install fire extinguishers, common mistakes can compromise safety:
- Using the wrong type of extinguisher for the specific fire risk
- Fire extinguishers that are blocked or hard to reach
- Staff not trained to use extinguishers safely
- Expired or unserviced fire extinguishers
Simply having fire extinguishers on site is not enough – they must be suitable, accessible, and maintained according to UK fire safety regulations.
How Many Fire Extinguishers Does Your Business Need?
There isn’t a single standard that fits all premises, but general guidance includes:
- At least two extinguishers per floor, unless the building is very small
- Placement along escape routes and near high-risk areas, such as kitchens, server rooms, or electrical panels
- The exact number, type, and placement of fire extinguishers should be determined through a Fire Risk Assessment
Proper placement and coverage can significantly increase the effectiveness of fire extinguishers during an emergency.
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance and Inspection
Regular maintenance and inspection are critical for compliance and safety:
- Annual servicing by a qualified professional is a legal requirement in the UK
- Monthly visual checks should be carried out by the Responsible Person or trained staff
- Checks include: ensuring the extinguisher is in place, pressure is correct, seals are intact, and there’s no visible damage
Failing to maintain extinguishers can result in legal liability and may render them ineffective in an emergency.
Staff Training for Fire Extinguishers
Even the best fire extinguishers are ineffective if staff don’t know how to use them. Staff training should include:
- How and when to use extinguishers safely
- Understanding that extinguishers are a first response tool, not a replacement for evacuation or professional fire services
- Prioritising evacuation first, only attempting to fight a fire if trained
Trained staff improve workplace safety and can prevent small fires from escalating.
How FireRiskAssessments.com Can Help
At FireRiskAssessments.com, we provide a complete fire safety solution for businesses, landlords, and property managers in the UK:
- Comprehensive Fire Risk Assessments to identify hazards
- Advice on the correct type, number, and placement of extinguishers
- Guidance on fire extinguisher maintenance and legal compliance
- Staff training and ongoing support to ensure safety and compliance
Our qualified assessors make it simple to achieve full fire safety compliance and protect your premises and occupants.
Protect Your Business and Staff with a Fire Risk Assessment
Fire Risk Assessments are a critical component of workplace fire safety. Choosing the right extinguishers, maintaining them properly, and training staff are all essential to reducing risk, complying with UK legislation, and protecting lives.
Request your free quote today to ensure your business meets all fire safety requirements and is prepared for emergencies. Don’t leave safety to chance — make fire extinguishers an effective part of your workplace safety strategy.