Fire Extinguishers

Protect your people and property with portable fire extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are an essential safety measure for all UK businesses. In the event of a fire, having the correct type of extinguisher on hand can mean the difference between a minor incident and a catastrophic disaster.

It is crucial for businesses to have the appropriate extinguishers and ensure that they are properly maintained and easily accessible in case of an emergency. The UK has strict legislation and regulations regardingextinguishers, with the primary goal of ensuring the safety of employees, customers, and property.

Vipond can help businesses meet safety obligations and protect people, property, and assets. To book a site survey and establish your fire safety requirements, contact our experts today.

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A range of water, foam, CO2, dry powder, and wet chemical fire extinguishers from Chubb Fire & Security

Protect your people, property, and assets from the threat of fire.

What are the different types of extinguishers and their uses?

Understanding the various types of extinguishers and their specific applications is fundamental for UK businesses to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

Fire extinguishers are categorised based on the type of fire they are designed to combat:

Water Fire Extinguishers

Ideal for Class A fires involving solid combustibles such as wood, paper, and textiles. They cool the burning materials and quench the fire. However, they are unsuitable for fires involving electrical equipment or cooking oils.

Foam Fire Extinguishers

Effective on Class A fires, similar to water extinguishers, but also on Class B fires, which involve flammable liquids like petrol, paints, and solvents. The foam forms a seal over the surface to prevent re-ignition.

Chubb Vipond Co2 Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishers

CO2 Fire Extinguishers

These are specifically designed for electrical fires and are safe to use on electrical equipment without causing damage. They are also effective on Class B fires but do not cool the fire, so re-ignition is possible.

Chubb Vipond Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher

Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

Versatile units that can tackle Class A, B, and C fires, which include gases like propane and butane. They are also suitable for use on fires involving electrical equipment. However, the powder can obscure vision and may cause damage to electrical items.

Chubb Vipond Wet Chemical Fry Fighter Fire Extinguisher for Kitchen Fires

Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers

The best choice for Class F fires, which involve cooking oils and fats. They work by forming a soap-like solution that cools and smothers the fire, preventing re-ignition. These extinguishers can also be used on Class A fires.

Selecting the correct type of fire extinguisher is critical for the safety of employees and the protection of assets. Each business should assess its specific fire risks and equip its premises with the appropriate extinguishers, ensuring staff are trained in their use.

Vipond can help businesses determine which extinguishers they require and where they should be positioned to ensure maximum safety at all times.

What UK legislation and regulations relate to fire extinguishers in commercial and industrial properties?

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In the UK, several key pieces of legislation and regulation govern the management and provision of fire extinguishers in commercial and industrial properties.

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is the primary legislation covering England and Wales, requiring business owners to carry out a fire risk assessment and implement appropriate fire safety measures, including the provision of extinguishers. In Scotland, similar requirements are set out in the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 and the associated Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006.

Under these regulations, it is mandatory for businesses to have an adequate number of extinguishers available and to ensure that they are suitable for the types of fires that might occur on their premises. The British Standards BS 5306-3 and BS 5306-8 provide further guidance on the selection and positioning of extinguishers, as well as on their maintenance and testing to ensure they remain suitably effective in a fire.

Compliance with these laws and fire regulations is not only a legal requirement but a critical aspect of protecting people, property, and assets. Regular checks, servicing, and training in the use of extinguishers are essential components of a comprehensive fire safety strategy for all UK businesses.

Vipond can provide all the support you need to keep your business fire-safe and compliant. To discuss your requirements, get in touch with our experts.