Fire safety legislation, including BS5306, is responsible for massively reducing the number of fires that happen in commercial properties. In addition, it ensures people have what they need to be able to attack fires if they start. It can protect the building, inhabitants, and contents, and assist evacuation. One thing you need to think about is siting, making sure extinguishers are accessible. We want to have a closer look at that here, then you can talk to us if you want to arrange fire extinguisher service & supply in Middlesbrough.
Every floor
The first thing to remember about fire extinguisher siting is you need them on every floor of the property. Crucially, they must be Class A extinguishers, typically water, powder, or foam, able to extinguish fires involving paper, fabric, wood, and plastics.
The exact number of Class A extinguishers you need will depend on the size of the space. In most cases, you will need at least two. However, one may be sufficient if it is a small space and there is a risk of impeding evacuation.
In terms of siting, generally you should have a Class A extinguisher near each exit and call-point. However, the legislation appreciates there may be situations where there are more exits and call points on floors than extinguishers. In this case, there is a 30m rule. It says people should be within 30m of an extinguisher wherever they are on a floor. It can help to decide zones for large floors and then ensure you have the extinguishers in accessible locations.
Other types of extinguisher
The siting rules are different for other types of extinguishers. We can work with clients if you need fire extinguisher service & supply in Middlesbrough. We’ll ensure you have the correct ones in the right locations in properties.
Most notably, the legislation says you should have a specialist extinguisher close to any specific fire hazard. For example, in a commercial kitchen, you should have a Class K chemical extinguisher near appliances like fryers. They are the only suitable type you can use because others could make a fire worse or cause it to spread.
There is also legislation for Class B carbon dioxide fire extinguishers. They are specifically for fighting electrical fires. Almost every commercial property will have some form of electrical equipment, so generally you’ll need to have them on every floor. In fact, most people will site them with Class A extinguishers.
Signposts
Finally, ensure you make it clear to inhabitants where extinguishers are sited. If you are using the 30m rule, you may need signposts to tell people where to find them. Adding ID signs to the walls next to them or on a stand is wise too. Do this with specialist extinguishers too. The goal should be to ensure people can identify each extinguisher and know how to use it.
Talk to us about fire extinguisher service & supply in Middlesbrough
ABC Fire Safety and Security is the perfect business if you want to protect properties and the lives of inhabitants. We can provide a full range of services, including fire risk assessments, fire extinguisher solutions, alarms, and more. We’re a competent team with fantastic credentials so you can have complete confidence.
So, speak to us if you want fire extinguisher service & supply in Middlesbrough or other services. We can help all kinds of clients, including landlords with commercial lettings or HMOs.
