FIRE EXTINGUISHERS - 20.10.2010

Fire extinguishers are valuable

The red thing by the door. In recent years, fire extinguishers have received a bad press. In fact, some have suggested that they serve little purpose and should be removed. However, a recent survey completed by the Fire Industry Association (FIA) indicates that they aren’t as useless as the claims suggest. In fact, quite the opposite.

The survey says. It identified that, rather than being consigned to the past, extinguishers have a vital role to play as a first aid response to fire. Instead of being an ornament that’s used to keep doors open, when put to its proper use, an extinguisher is effective on 88% of the fires tackled. This number represents a significant increase from what was identified during a similar survey completed in 2003. The success rate then was only 80%.

What has led to the increase? There are a number of reasons for this result, including better and more regular checking and servicing. In the past, many people purchased extinguishers, almost forgot they had them and then were surprised that they didn’t work when they were needed. Another reason is training. Since the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 came into effect, employers have been required to ensure that staff have basic fire safety training - which includes how to use extinguishers. This means that when set off, they are used properly.

Tip 1. Run through the basics with all staff, including how to hold an extinguisher, what types of fire a particular extinguisher can be used for - for example, water on non-electrical fires - when to use it and how to aim it (see The next step).

Tip 2. Make sure that staff regularly check your extinguishers are in the correct place and in proper working order (see The next step).

For a free fire extinguisher safety briefing (HS 09.04.01A) and a fire extinguisher check record sheet (HS 09.04.01B), visit http://healthandsafety.indicator.co.uk.