Portable fire extinguisher selection, siting, maintenance and BS 5306 compliance.
UK fire classification follows BS EN 2:1992. Understanding fire classes is essential for correct extinguisher selection. Using the wrong extinguisher can be ineffective or dangerous.
| Class | Fuel Type | Examples | Suitable Extinguishers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class A | Solid carbonaceous materials | Wood, paper, textiles, plastics | Water, foam, dry powder, wet chemical, CO₂ (limited) |
| Class B | Flammable liquids | Petrol, diesel, oil, paint, solvents | Foam, dry powder, CO₂ |
| Class C | Flammable gases | LPG, natural gas, butane, propane | Dry powder (shut off supply first) |
| Class D | Combustible metals | Magnesium, titanium, aluminium swarf | Specialist dry powder (L2, M28, Met-L-X) |
| Electrical | Electrical equipment (not a formal class) | Computers, switchgear, motors | CO₂, dry powder, water mist (dielectrically tested) |
| Class F | Cooking oils and fats | Deep fat fryers, cooking oil | Wet chemical (Class F specific) |
All UK fire extinguishers are red (BS EN 3). A coloured band (approximately 5% of the body area) identifies the agent type. The coloured band is typically a panel or label on the upper body of the extinguisher.
Extinguisher selection is governed by BS 5306-8 and the RRFSO 2005. The responsible person must ensure that appropriate extinguishers are provided for the fire risks present. Always conduct a fire risk assessment.
| Premises Type | Typical Fire Risks | Recommended Extinguishers |
|---|---|---|
| Office | Class A (paper, furniture), electrical equipment | Water or foam (Class A) + CO₂ (electrical) |
| Kitchen / Canteen | Class A, Class F (cooking oil) | Wet chemical (Class F) + CO₂ or water (Class A) |
| Warehouse / Storage | Class A (stock, packaging) | Water or foam (large capacity) |
| Garage / Workshop | Class A, Class B (fuel, oil) | Foam or dry powder (Class B) + water (Class A) |
| Server Room / Data Centre | Electrical, Class A | CO₂ (no residue) — consider gaseous suppression system |
| Retail | Class A, electrical | Water or foam + CO₂ |
| Chemical storage | Class B, Class C | Dry powder (ABC) — consult specialist |
| Metal working | Class D | Specialist Class D dry powder |
UK extinguishers are rated to BS EN 3. The rating indicates the size of fire the extinguisher can extinguish in a standard test. Higher numbers indicate greater fire-fighting capability.
| Rating | Meaning | Typical Product |
|---|---|---|
| 13A | Class A — can extinguish a 13-unit wood crib fire | Small 2 litre water extinguisher |
| 21A | Class A — larger fire | 3 litre water extinguisher |
| 34A | Class A — larger fire | 6 litre water extinguisher |
| 55A | Class A — large fire | 9 litre water extinguisher |
| 21B | Class B — can extinguish a 21-litre fuel fire | 2 kg CO₂ extinguisher |
| 55B | Class B — larger fuel fire | 2 kg dry powder extinguisher |
| 113B | Class B — large fuel fire | 6 kg dry powder extinguisher |
The PASS technique is the standard method for operating a portable fire extinguisher. It applies to all types of extinguisher.
BS 5306-3 specifies the maintenance requirements for portable fire extinguishers. Maintenance must be carried out by a competent person (typically a BAFE-registered engineer). The responsible person must ensure that extinguishers are maintained in accordance with BS 5306-3.
| Service Type | Frequency | Who | What is Checked |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Service | Annual | Competent person (BAFE registered) | Visual inspection, pressure check, weight check, pin and tamper seal, label, location. Discharge and refill if required. |
| Extended Service | Every 5 years (water/foam/wet chemical) or 10 years (CO₂/dry powder) | Competent person | Full discharge, internal inspection, hydraulic pressure test of cylinder, refill, recharge. |
| Overhaul / Replacement | Per manufacturer recommendation or BS 5306-3 table | Competent person | Full strip-down, inspection, replacement of worn parts, recharge. |
| Type | Basic Service | Extended Service | Replacement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water / Foam / Wet Chemical | Annual | Every 5 years | After 25 years (or per manufacturer) |
| CO₂ | Annual (weight check) | Every 10 years (hydraulic test) | After 10 years (or per manufacturer) |
| Dry Powder (stored pressure) | Annual | Every 5 years | After 25 years (or per manufacturer) |
| Dry Powder (cartridge) | Annual | Every 5 years | After 25 years (or per manufacturer) |
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Maximum travel distance (Class A) | 30m to the nearest appropriate extinguisher |
| Maximum travel distance (Class B) | 10m to the nearest appropriate extinguisher |
| Mounting height (up to 3 kg / 3 L) | Handle at 1.0m above finished floor level |
| Mounting height (over 3 kg / 3 L) | Handle at 0.5m above finished floor level |
| Visibility | Extinguishers must be clearly visible. Use wall bracket or stand. Position near exit routes. |
| Signage | BS 5499-5 pictogram signs required where extinguishers are not immediately visible. |
| Protection from damage | Protect from physical damage, frost, and direct sunlight. Use protective covers where necessary. |
| Grouping | Where more than one extinguisher is required, group them together at a fire point. |
Kidde is one of the world's largest fire protection manufacturers. Their UK range includes portable extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and detection equipment. Kidde extinguishers are widely used in commercial, industrial, and residential applications.
Chubb is a major UK fire protection brand with a long history in the UK market. Chubb extinguishers are available in all standard types and are widely used in commercial and industrial premises. Chubb also offers service and maintenance contracts through their national engineer network.
Firechief Global is a UK manufacturer and distributor of fire extinguishers and fire safety products. Their Xtra range features a unique stainless steel construction for corrosion resistance, making them suitable for harsh environments including coastal, industrial, and food production facilities.
Amerex is a US manufacturer of specialist fire extinguishers, widely used in aviation, marine, and industrial applications. Their Class D extinguishers (for metal fires) and vehicle-mounted extinguishers are particularly well-regarded in the UK specialist market.
Monthly visual inspections should be carried out by a responsible person (not necessarily a trained engineer). The following checklist covers the key points. Record all inspections in the fire safety log book.