Fire Extinguisher Supplier Skipton: Your Quick Guide
Running a business comes with plenty of responsibilities, and fire safety is one you can’t afford to ignore. UK law requires workplaces to provide and maintain the right fire extinguishers, but beyond compliance, they’re a simple way to protect people and property.
Here’s what every business owner needs to know.
1. Know the Law
- The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to all workplaces in England and Wales (similar rules cover Scotland and Northern Ireland).
- A “responsible person” (usually the employer or manager) must ensure fire extinguishers are provided, maintained, and staff are trained to use them.
2. Understand the Different Types
Each extinguisher tackles a different kind of fire:
- Water (Red label) – For paper, wood, and textiles.
- Foam (Cream label) – For solids and flammable liquids.
- CO₂ (Black label) – For electrical fires, ideal in offices.
- Dry Powder (Blue label) – Covers multiple risks but messy indoors.
- Wet Chemical (Yellow label) – Essential for kitchens and cooking oils.
3. How Many Do You Need?
- At least two extinguishers per floor.
- Specialist extinguishers in high-risk areas (e.g., server rooms or kitchens).
- No one should ever be more than 30 metres from an extinguisher.
4. Correct Placement
- Mount extinguishers on walls or stands.
- Position them near exits and along escape routes.
- Keep them clear of obstructions.
- Use signs so they’re easy to spot in an emergency.
5. Train Your Team
Staff should know:
- Where extinguishers are.
- Which one to use for different fires.
- How to operate them (using the PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).
- When to evacuate instead of fighting a fire.
6. Keep Them Maintained
- Check monthly for damage or missing safety pins.
- Service annually with a qualified fire safety engineer.
- Replace/refill after any use or if damaged.
Final Word
Fire Extinguisher Supplier Skipton: Fire extinguishers are a legal requirement, but they’re also a smart investment in safety. The right equipment, in the right place, used by trained staff, can stop a small fire from becoming a catastrophe.
Take the time now to review your fire extinguisher setup—you’ll protect your team, your business, and your peace of mind.
