Fire Extinguisher Placement: What Every Office Needs to Know

Fire extinguishers are an essential part of any office’s fire safety strategy. Proper placement ensures that extinguishers are easily accessible in an emergency, helping to minimise damage, protect employees, and potentially save lives. However, many businesses are unsure about how to correctly position fire extinguishers to meet UK safety regulations.

At PAT Testing Wales, we are passionate about workplace safety, offering expert advice and services to help businesses stay compliant with fire and electrical safety regulations. In this blog, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to fire extinguisher placement in the office, ensuring you’re prepared to respond to fire emergencies effectively.

Why Proper Fire Extinguisher Placement is Crucial

Incorrect placement of fire extinguishers can result in:

• Delays in tackling small fires, leading to unnecessary damage or escalation.
• Employees being unable to locate extinguishers quickly during an emergency.
• Non-compliance with UK fire safety regulations, potentially leading to fines or penalties.

By following proper guidelines, you can ensure fire extinguishers are accessible, effective, and compliant.

Understanding UK Fire Safety Regulations

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, businesses are required to:

1. Conduct regular fire risk assessments to identify potential hazards.
2. Install appropriate fire extinguishers based on the risks identified.
3. Position extinguishers where they are easily accessible and visible.
4. Maintain extinguishers to ensure they are in good working condition.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties and increased fire risks. PAT Testing Wales provides advice on integrating fire safety measures, including fire extinguisher placement, into your workplace safety plan.

Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Placement

Different types of fire extinguishers are designed for specific fire hazards. It’s essential to position the correct extinguisher in the appropriate area:

1. Water Extinguishers (Red Label)

• Purpose: Suitable for Class A fires involving solid combustibles like wood, paper, or fabric.
• Placement: Near areas with high amounts of combustible materials, such as office desks, storerooms, or break rooms.

2. Foam Extinguishers (Cream Label)

• Purpose: Effective for Class A and B fires, including flammable liquids like petrol or paint.
• Placement: Near storage areas for cleaning chemicals, paint supplies, or kitchens where flammable liquids may be present.

3. CO₂ Extinguishers (Black Label)

• Purpose: Designed for Class B fires and electrical fires, such as those involving computers, printers, or other office equipment.
• Placement: Close to electrical equipment like server rooms, IT areas, or workshops with machinery.

4. Dry Powder Extinguishers (Blue Label)

• Purpose: Multi-purpose extinguishers suitable for Class A, B, and C fires (combustibles, flammable liquids, and flammable gases).
• Placement: Industrial areas, garages, or areas with flammable gases or liquids.

5. Wet Chemical Extinguishers (Yellow Label)

• Purpose: Specifically for Class F fires caused by cooking oils or fats.
• Placement: Kitchens, staff canteens, or food preparation areas.

Key Guidelines for Fire Extinguisher Placement

1. Ensure Visibility and Accessibility

• Fire extinguishers should be mounted on walls or placed in easily visible locations.
• Avoid obstructing extinguishers with furniture, storage, or other items.
• Install signage above extinguishers to make them easy to locate.

2. Follow the “30-Metre Rule”

• Employees should never have to travel more than 30 metres to reach a fire extinguisher. This ensures rapid access during an emergency.

3. Place Extinguishers at Key Points

• Near Exits: Position extinguishers near escape routes for easy access when leaving the building.
• At Fire Risk Areas: Place extinguishers close to identified fire hazards, such as kitchens, server rooms, or areas storing flammable materials.
• On Each Floor: Ensure every floor of the building has an appropriate number of fire extinguishers.

4. Mount at the Correct Height

• For extinguishers weighing less than 4kg, the handle should be 1.5m from the ground.
• For heavier extinguishers, the handle should be no higher than 1m from the ground.

5. Group Extinguishers Where Needed

• In areas with multiple fire hazards, such as a workshop with both flammable liquids and electrical equipment, group different types of extinguishers together.

Maintenance and Inspection of Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers must be regularly maintained to ensure they are in working order. Key practices include:

• Monthly Visual Checks: Inspect extinguishers for damage, corrosion, or tampering.
• Annual Servicing: Hire a professional to service extinguishers once a year, checking pressure levels and functionality.
• Refilling or Replacing: Refill extinguishers after use, and replace any that are no longer functional.

At PAT Testing Wales, we can assist with your workplace fire risk assessment, helping you identify areas that require specific fire safety measures, including extinguisher placement and maintenance.

How PAT Testing Wales Can Support Your Fire Safety Plan

While PAT testing focuses on ensuring electrical appliances are safe, it plays a vital role in fire prevention. Faulty electrical equipment is a common cause of workplace fires, but regular PAT testing can:

• Identify appliances at risk of overheating or sparking.
• Provide detailed reports for fire risk assessments.
• Reduce the likelihood of fire hazards caused by electrical faults.

Our team at PAT Testing Wales works closely with businesses across Wales to create safer workplaces by addressing both electrical and fire safety needs.

Final Thoughts

Proper fire extinguisher placement is a crucial component of workplace fire safety. By understanding the types of extinguishers needed, following placement guidelines, and maintaining them regularly, businesses can reduce fire risks and ensure compliance with UK safety regulations.

If you’re looking to improve your workplace fire safety or require professional PAT testing services, contact PAT Testing Wales today. Let us help you create a safe and compliant working environment for your employees and customers. Together, we can build a workplace where safety is always a top priority.