Extinguisher FAQ's
Are fire extinguishers a legal requirement in the UK?
Fire extinguishers are not explicitly mandatory in every situation, but under UK fire safety law you must provide appropriate fire-fighting equipment where a fire risk exists.
In practice, this usually means fire extinguishers are expected in:
• Workplaces
• Shops and offices
• Factories and warehouses
• HMOs and shared residential buildings
If a fire risk assessment identifies the need for extinguishers and they are not provided, this may be considered non-compliance.
What law covers fire extinguishers in the UK?
Fire extinguishers fall under UK fire safety legislation, which places duties on the Responsible Person to provide and maintain suitable fire-fighting equipment.
Extinguishers must be:
• Suitable for the risks present
• Properly installed
• Maintained in efficient working order
Failure to comply can result in enforcement action, fines, or prosecution.
Who is responsible for fire extinguishers at work?
The Responsible Person is accountable. This is usually:
• The employer
• The business owner
• The landlord or managing agent
• Anyone with control over the premises
While tasks can be delegated, legal responsibility cannot be transferred.
How many fire extinguishers do I need?
There is no fixed number set by law. The correct number depends on:
• Building size and layout
• Fire risks present
• Type of business or activity
• Travel distances to exits
A fire risk assessment determines what is “suitable and sufficient”.
What type of fire extinguisher do I need?
This depends on the types of fire risk present:
• Water – paper, wood, textiles
• Foam – flammable liquids
• CO₂ – electrical fires
• Powder – mixed risks (often outdoors)
• Wet Chemical – commercial kitchens
Using the wrong extinguisher can be dangerous, which is why correct selection matters.
What do the colours on fire extinguishers mean?
In the UK, extinguisher types are identified by a colour label:
• Red – Water
• Cream – Foam
• Blue – Powder
• Black – CO₂
• Yellow – Wet Chemical
All modern extinguishers are red with coloured panels.
Where should fire extinguishers be located?
Fire extinguishers should be:
• On escape routes
• Near exits
• Clearly visible and accessible
• Mounted at the correct height
They should never obstruct escape routes or be hidden away.
Do fire extinguishers need to be serviced?
Yes. Fire extinguishers must be maintained in efficient working order.
Best practice includes:
• Annual servicing by a competent person
• Visual checks carried out regularly in-house
• Immediate action if damage or faults are found
Poor maintenance is a common reason for enforcement action.
How often do fire extinguishers need servicing?
• Annually by a competent engineer
• Basic visual checks should be carried out more frequently
Some extinguishers also require:
• Extended discharge testing at set intervals
• Replacement after a defined lifespan
Can I service fire extinguishers myself?
No — formal servicing must be carried out by a competent person with the correct training, equipment, and knowledge.
However, businesses should carry out simple visual checks, such as ensuring:
• Pressure gauges are in the green
• Pins and seals are intact
• Extinguishers are undamaged and accessible
How long does a fire extinguisher last?
Most fire extinguishers last 5 to 10 years, depending on type and condition.
They may need:
• Refurbishment
• Pressure testing
• Replacement
Expired or condemned extinguishers should be replaced immediately.
Are staff required to use fire extinguishers?
No. Staff should never be expected to fight a fire.
Fire extinguishers are provided to:
• Tackle very small fires only if safe to do so
• Assist with escape
• Protect escape routes
Evacuation is always the priority.
Do landlords need to provide fire extinguishers?
It depends on the type of property:
• Workplaces and common areas – usually yes
• HMOs – commonly required
• Single private dwellings – generally not required
A fire risk assessment determines what is necessary.
What happens if fire extinguishers aren’t maintained?
Failure to maintain fire extinguishers can lead to:
• Enforcement notices
• Fines
• Prosecution
• Insurance complications
• Increased risk to life
Records of maintenance are often requested during inspections.
How much does fire extinguisher servicing cost in the UK?
Costs vary depending on:
• Number of extinguishers
• Type and condition
• Location and access
Regular servicing is significantly cheaper than enforcement action or replacement after neglect.
