Type “buy fire extinguisher” into Google, and you’ll have a pick of online retailers to purchase from. So, just place your order, and the job’s a good ‘un. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple.
If you buy a brand-new fire extinguisher from a dealer or online, it won’t come out of the box ready for use. Fire extinguishers have to be set up before use, and under British Standard BS 5306-3:2009, “The commissioning of an extinguisher should be carried out by a competent person.”
You will disregard fire regulations and risk prosecution if your fire equipment isn’t correctly commissioned. Also, your insurance cover may be invalidated, and your facilities and employees may be at risk.
So, if you’re buying new fire extinguishers, it pays to use a professional to commission and install them. The benefits you’ll enjoy include:
Expertise
Professionals have the necessary knowledge and expertise to determine the appropriate type and placement of fire extinguishers based on the space’s specific requirements. They’re familiar with local fire codes and regulations, ensuring the installation complies with safety standards.
Safety compliance
Fire extinguishers must be correctly installed to ensure they’re easily accessible in an emergency. Professionals can ensure your extinguishers are mounted securely and are easily identifiable, making them readily available for immediate use.
Proper maintenance
Professionals can offer guidance on maintaining and regularly inspecting your fire extinguishers. They can help you set up routine checks and maintenance schedules to ensure the extinguishers remain in proper working condition. Regular servicing is crucial for the safety of your occupants and the protection of your property.
Liability and insurance
Using a professional for your fire extinguisher installation may help reduce your liability and insurance risks. In case of an incident, having a professional installation can demonstrate that all necessary precautions were taken, potentially reducing the risk of liability issues.
Assurance of quality
Professionals typically provide quality assurance for their services. They can offer you warranties for the work done, giving you peace of mind that the installation is done correctly and meets all necessary safety standards.
Overall, relying on a professional for fire extinguisher installation helps prioritise the safety of your premises and its occupants, reducing the risk of potential hazards and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
When seeking a professional to commission your new fire extinguishers, check the technician has a BAFE-recognised examination certificate endorsed by BAFE.
We’re BAFE accredited, and our engineers follow the relevant British Codes of Practice (BS5306) when carrying out extinguisher services. If you’d like a quote for installing and commissioning new fire extinguishers, please get in touch.