Fire Extinguisher Servicing in the Harrogate: A Guide for Businesses and Property Owners
Fire extinguishers are a frontline defence against small fires, but only if they’re in good working order. In the UK, it’s not enough to simply have extinguishers installed—regular servicing is essential to meet safety standards and ensure the equipment works when it matters most.
Why Servicing Fire Extinguishers Is Essential
Like any safety device, fire extinguishers can deteriorate over time. Seals can perish, pressure can drop, and corrosion can set in. Even a seemingly minor fault could mean the extinguisher fails during an emergency. Regular servicing helps:
- Identify wear and tear before it becomes a problem
- Ensure extinguishers are fit for purpose
- Keep businesses compliant with fire safety regulations
Ultimately, maintenance gives peace of mind that equipment won’t let you down in a crisis.
UK Regulations and Standards
Fire extinguisher upkeep isn’t just recommended—it’s a legal duty. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires that all fire safety equipment is properly maintained by those responsible for a premises.
The specific standard for extinguisher servicing is BS 5306-3:2017, which sets out:
- Annual servicing: A qualified engineer must inspect each extinguisher once every 12 months.
- Extended maintenance: Certain types of extinguishers need more in-depth checks every 5 or 10 years.
- Replacements: Damaged, faulty, or discharged extinguishers must be replaced immediately.
Ignoring these requirements could expose you to legal consequences and invalidate your insurance cover.
What’s Included in a Service Visit?
When a professional engineer visits your site, they’ll carry out a series of checks to make sure each extinguisher is safe and ready for use. This typically involves:
- Examining the cylinder for dents, rust, or other damage
- Checking the pressure gauge and overall weight
- Testing safety pins, tamper seals, and discharge hoses
- Making sure the extinguisher is installed correctly and labelled clearly
- Confirming it’s the right type of extinguisher for the fire risks on-site
- Updating the service label with the date of inspection
These checks ensure compliance and give reassurance that your extinguishers will perform as intended.
Choosing a Reliable Service Provider
To stay compliant, extinguisher servicing must be carried out by a competent technician. In practice, this means selecting a provider with recognised accreditation, such as:
- BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment)
- Membership of the Fire Industry Association (FIA)
By working with an accredited company, you know the work meets British Standards and will be recognised by insurers and fire authorities.
Conclusion
Fire extinguisher servicing isn’t just another box to tick—it’s a crucial part of protecting people and property. Regular maintenance ensures compliance with UK law, keeps insurance valid, and most importantly, ensures that extinguishers are ready to save lives.
If your extinguishers haven’t been serviced within the last 12 months, book a visit with a certified engineer today. In fire safety, prevention and preparation are everything.
