Fire safety is a crucial consideration for all commercial properties, and one of the key elements of any fire safety plan is the proper placement of fire extinguishers. In the event of a fire, the strategic positioning of extinguishers can mean the difference between a minor incident and a major disaster. But how do you know if your property is compliant with UK regulations?
This guide from Hartson Fire guides you through the essentials of fire extinguisher placement for commercial premises in the UK.
Correct placement of fire extinguishers ensures that they are easily accessible and visible during an emergency. It reduces the time needed to respond to a fire, potentially saving lives and minimising property damage. In addition, adhering to proper placement guidelines is a legal requirement under UK fire safety regulations, including the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
To ensure compliance, consider the following key requirements for extinguisher placement in your commercial premises:
1. Accessible Locations
Fire extinguishers must be placed in easily accessible areas, typically along escape routes, near exits, and in high-risk zones. They should not be obstructed by furniture, equipment, or other obstacles.
2. Mounting Height
Extinguishers weighing up to 4kg should be mounted with the handle no higher than 1.5 metres from the floor. For heavier extinguishers, the handle should be no more than 1 metre from the floor.
3. Appropriate Signage
Fire extinguisher locations must be clearly marked with appropriate signs, ensuring visibility even in low-light conditions.
4. Risk-Based Placement
Extinguishers must be suitable for the specific fire risks in each area. For example:
· Class A fires (combustible materials): Water or foam extinguishers.
· Class B fires (flammable liquids): Foam or CO2 extinguishers.
· Electrical fires: CO2 extinguishers.
· Kitchen fires: Wet chemical extinguishers.
The number of extinguishers needed depends on the size and layout of your property. A general rule of thumb is to have at least one water-based extinguisher for every 200 square metres of floor space, with a minimum of two extinguishers per floor. However, additional units may be required in high-risk areas, such as kitchens or workshops.
1. Multi-Storey Buildings
Each floor must have an adequate number of extinguishers, placed strategically along escape routes and near stairwells.
2. High-Risk Areas
Areas with higher fire risks, such as kitchens, server rooms, or storage areas for flammable materials, require specialised extinguishers suitable for the risks involved.
3. Public Spaces
In commercial properties with public access, such as shops or restaurants, fire extinguishers must be placed in visible, easy-to-reach locations to ensure they can be used promptly if needed.
· Obstructed access: Extinguishers hidden behind furniture or equipment.
· Wrong type of extinguisher: Placing water extinguishers in areas with electrical risks.
· Lack of signage: Failure to clearly indicate extinguisher locations.
· Overcrowding: Too many extinguishers in one area and none in another.
· Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment: Assess the risks in your property and determine the appropriate types and locations of extinguishers.
· Consult a Professional: Work with fire safety experts like Hartson Fire to ensure your extinguisher placement meets legal requirements and is tailored to your specific needs.
· Regular Maintenance: Ensure extinguishers are regularly serviced and maintained to remain in working order.
· Train Staff: Provide training to ensure employees know where extinguishers are located and how to use them effectively.
At Hartson Fire, we specialise in helping businesses stay compliant with fire safety regulations. Our team can provide a wide range of fire extinguishers, and ensure proper placement in your commercial property as well as annual servicing. Don’t leave safety to chance—contact us today on the number below to ensure your business is prepared for any fire emergency.
