Evaluation Process

Evaluation Process – A Fire Extinguisher Survey is conducted to assess the adequacy, positioning, condition, and compliance of fire extinguishers within a facility.

The survey will result in a detailed report outlining the following:

  • The current condition of each fire extinguisher.
  • Any deficiencies or non-compliance with British Standards.
  • Recommendations for additional or alternative extinguishers if required.
  • Any extinguishers that require maintenance, testing, or replacement.


Testing and compliance – In the UK, fire extinguishers must meet the British Standards (BS), which outline the specific requirements for the design, manufacturing, testing, and maintenance of fire extinguishers to ensure their safety and effectiveness. The key standard for fire extinguishers in the UK is BS EN 3, which covers portable fire extinguishers.

1. BS EN 3 – Portable Fire Extinguishers

This is the primary standard for the requirements, performance, and testing of portable fire extinguishers in the UK. Key aspects include:

  • Marking and Labelling: Extinguishers must carry clear markings, including the manufacturer’s details, capacity, and the fire classification (e.g., A, B, C, D, F, depending on the type of fire they are suitable for).
  • Performance Requirements: This standard defines the minimum levels of fire-extinguishing capability that a portable fire extinguisher must meet.
  • Fire Classes: BS EN 3 requires fire extinguishers to be tested for suitability for different fire classes:
    • Class A: Fires involving solid materials (e.g., wood, textiles).
    • Class B: Fires involving flammable liquids (e.g., petrol, oils).
    • Class C: Fires involving gases (e.g., methane, propane).
    • Class D: Fires involving metals (e.g., magnesium, titanium).
    • Class F: Fires involving cooking oils and fats.
  • Colour Coding: The standard specifies a red body for all extinguishers with only a small coloured label to indicate the type of extinguisher:
    • Water (Red)
    • Foam (Cream)
    • Powder (Blue)
    • CO2 (Black)
    • Wet chemical (Yellow)

2. BS 5306-3 – Maintenance of Portable Fire Extinguishers

This standard focuses on the maintenance and servicing of fire extinguishers. Key points include:

  • Visual Inspections: Monthly checks should be conducted by the responsible person to ensure extinguishers are not damaged, have the correct pressure, and are in the proper location.
  • Annual Servicing: A competent person (typically a service technician) must carry out a full inspection every 12 months, including checking the internal condition, pressure testing, and refilling if needed.
  • Extended Service: Every 5 years, water, foam, and powder extinguishers need an extended service, which includes a discharge test.
  • CO2 Extinguishers: Must undergo pressure testing (hydrostatic test) every 10 years, as they are high-pressure vessels.

3. BS 5306-8 – Selection and Positioning of Fire Extinguishers

This part of the standard focuses on the correct selection and positioning of fire extinguishers within a building to ensure they can be accessed quickly in the event of a fire. Important points include:

  • Coverage: It specifies the number and types of extinguishers required based on the size and type of the premises.
  • Accessibility: Extinguishers must be mounted in accessible and visible locations, typically near fire exit points or high-risk areas.
  • Type of Fire: The standard advises on the types of extinguishers that should be installed based on the fire risks present (e.g., foam for flammable liquids, water for solid combustibles).

4. BS EN 1866 – Mobile Fire Extinguishers

This standard covers larger, wheeled fire extinguishers used in industrial or high-risk environments. These are typically for fires that require a higher volume of extinguishing agent than portable models can provide.

5. Testing Requirements

Fire extinguishers must undergo various testing stages during manufacturing and after installation to ensure compliance with British standards. Some critical testing requirements include:

  • Fire Performance Tests: These tests ensure the extinguisher can extinguish certain classes of fires effectively (e.g., a specific amount of liquid or solid material for each fire class).
  • Pressure Testing: For extinguishers with pressurised cylinders (e.g., CO2), periodic pressure tests (typically every 10 years) ensure that the cylinder can handle the pressure without rupturing.
  • Discharge Testing: This test ensures that the extinguisher discharges its content at a sufficient rate and volume to be effective in an emergency.

Summary of Testing Requirements:

  • Monthly inspections for visible damage, proper pressure, and accessibility.
  • Annual maintenance by a certified professional.
  • Hydrostatic pressure testing every 10 years for high-pressure extinguishers (e.g., CO2).
  • Extended discharge tests every 5 years for water, foam, and powder extinguishers.

Meeting these requirements is essential for ensuring that fire extinguishers perform effectively during emergencies and comply with UK regulations.