1. Why do I need my Fire Extinguishers serviced?

To comply fully with your legal requirements to provide a safe environment for your occupants, employees, public, etc.

2. What benefit does the Fire Extinguisher service give me and my business?

Full compliance with your legal obligations and insurance requirements, along with total peace of mind.

3. Does my business need its Fire Extinguishers serviced?

Yes. No one is exempt. Extinguishers are fitted as a requirement of planning laws and must be maintained.

4. Do I need my Fire Extinguishers serviced every year?

Yes, under BS 5306-3.

5. What is British Standard BS 5306-3?

This standard controls the way we carry out the service of portable fire extinguishers and requires a minimum annual service to ensure they operate when required.

6. What is British Standard BS 5306-8?

This standard gives advice and guidance on the suitability and positioning of portable fire extinguishers.

7. What does the engineer do during his visit?

Checks that every extinguisher is working, clean, sealed, labelled, and suitable for its environment.

8. Does the engineer’s visit disrupt my business?

Our engineers are flexible and normally work around any disruption issues.

9. What do I get at the end of the Fire Extinguisher service?

A certificate detailing the visit and next service due, a requirement report if needed, and the engineer’s service report.

10. What are different types of extinguishers used for?

Please call the office for further details.

11. How long do Fire Extinguishers last?

The normal shelf life is between 5 to 10 years depending on the type of extinguisher.

12. What is commissioning of an Extinguisher?

Commissioning involves the same checks as a service but more thorough to ensure there are no damages or corrosion on the extinguisher.

13. What is a Fire Risk Assessment and why do I need one?

A Fire Risk Assessment is a legal requirement. It identifies fire risks and hazards in your premises and ensures appropriate action is taken.

14. What are the legal requirements for fire safety in the workplace?

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all employers must ensure premises meet fire safety standards. This includes fire risk assessments, safety measures, alarm system maintenance, and staff training.

15. Why do businesses need fire alarms?

Fire alarms alert occupants to the presence of a fire, allowing timely evacuation and potentially saving lives.

16. What are the legal requirements for fire alarms in businesses?

All businesses must have appropriate fire detection and warning systems, including regularly maintained fire alarms, as mandated by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

17. How often should fire alarms be tested?

Fire alarms should be tested weekly by a responsible person and thoroughly tested annually by a competent professional.

18. What types of fire alarms are there?

There are two main types: conventional (divides premises into zones) and addressable (pinpoints the exact location of a triggered alarm).

19. How do fire alarms work?

Fire alarms detect smoke, heat, or both. When triggered, they activate audible and visual alarms to alert occupants for evacuation.

20. Who should install and maintain fire alarms?

Fire alarms should be installed and maintained by competent fire safety professionals experienced in compliance with British Standards and legal requirements.

21. What should I do if my fire alarm goes off?

Immediately evacuate the building using the nearest safe exit and gather at the designated assembly point. Do not re-enter until declared safe by fire authorities.

22. Can I silence a fire alarm once it has been activated?

No. Fire alarms should only be silenced by a fire warden or responsible person after confirming a false alarm.

23. How can I ensure my fire alarm system is reliable?

Regular testing, professional maintenance, and compliance with British Standards (e.g., BS 5839) ensure reliability.

24. Why do businesses need emergency lighting?

Emergency lighting ensures safe evacuation during power outages or emergencies by illuminating escape routes and exits.

25. What are the legal requirements for emergency lighting in businesses?

All non-domestic premises must have emergency lighting maintained according to British Standards (e.g., BS 5266) under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

26. How often should emergency lighting be tested?

Monthly functional tests and an annual full-duration test (1-3 hours) are required to ensure proper operation.

27. What types of emergency lighting systems are there?

Escape route lighting, open area lighting, and high-risk task area lighting, each serving specific evacuation purposes.

28. Who should install and maintain emergency lighting?

Competent professionals familiar with British Standards and regulatory requirements should handle installation and maintenance.

29. What should I do if emergency lighting fails during an emergency?

Use alternative light sources (e.g., torches, mobile phone lights) and evacuate cautiously via familiar escape routes.

30. Can emergency lighting be integrated with fire alarm systems?

Yes, integrated systems can activate emergency lighting when a fire alarm is triggered to enhance evacuation safety.

31. How can I ensure my emergency lighting system is reliable?

Regular testing, professional maintenance, and compliance with British Standards (e.g., BS 5266) are crucial for reliability.

32. Are there specific requirements for emergency lighting in different types of businesses?

Yes, requirements vary based on premises size, layout, and usage. Consult fire safety professionals for specific needs.

33. Where can I find more detailed information?

Visit the UK Government Fire Safety Page for regulations and best practices.