Fire extinguishers are one of the most recognised pieces of fire safety equipment in the workplace, but many businesses are unsure about how many they need—and where to place them. The answer isn’t always straightforward. It depends on your building layout, the nature of your business, and what fire risks are present.
UK fire safety legislation, specifically the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and guidance from British Standard BS 5306, provides a framework for determining the number and type of fire extinguishers a business must have. Here’s is a guide from Midland Fire Security Services on what employers and building managers need to know.
Legal Guidance on Fire Extinguisher Requirements
Generally, British Standards recommend that every business should have at least one fire extinguisher for every 200 square metres of floor space. Additionally, every floor in a building should have a minimum of two extinguishers—unless the floor area is less than 100 square metres.
To ensure accessibility, there should always be an extinguisher within 30 metres of any location within the premises. In some cases, where automatic suppression systems (like sprinklers) are installed, fewer extinguishers may be needed.
However, these are just guidelines. The actual requirement will depend on the findings of a fire risk assessment, which is a legal obligation for all non-domestic premises. This assessment takes into account the type of work being carried out, the materials on site, and the physical layout of the building.
Choosing the Right Type of Fire Extinguisher
Not all fire extinguishers are suitable for all types of fires. The UK fire classification system identifies different types of fires, and each class requires a specific type of extinguisher:
- Class A: Combustible solids such as wood, paper, and textiles.
- Class B: Flammable liquids like petrol, solvents, or paints.
- Class C: Flammable gases such as butane or propane.
- Class D: Combustible metals (e.g. magnesium).
- Class F: Cooking oils and fats—typically in kitchens.
- Electrical Fires: Fires caused by electrical equipment, requiring non-conductive extinguishers like CO₂ or dry powder.
Using the wrong extinguisher can make a fire worse, so it’s crucial to select the right one based on your business operations and identified fire risks.
Placement, Signage, and Staff Training
Proper placement of extinguishers is essential. They should be clearly visible, mounted at an appropriate height, and located near exits, alarm call points, and any identified fire risks. Clear signage should indicate what type of extinguisher is available and how it should be used.
Importantly, all staff should receive basic fire safety training, including how to operate an extinguisher and what to do in the event of a fire.
Maintenance and Servicing
Fire extinguishers must be regularly maintained to ensure they work when needed. This includes:
- Monthly checks to spot damage or low pressure.
- Annual servicing by a qualified technician.
- Extended servicing or replacements every 5–10 years depending on type.
A well-maintained fire extinguisher could be the difference between a small incident and a devastating fire.
In short, knowing how many fire extinguishers supply your business needs—and making sure they are the right type and properly maintained—is essential for protecting people, property, and livelihoods. A professional fire risk assessment is the best starting point for meeting your legal and safety obligations.