Introduction
Ensuring the safety of employees and the protection of office property is of paramount importance for businesses. One of the critical aspects of safety is having the right fire extinguishers on hand to tackle potential fires. In this context, the legal requirements for workplace fire safety in the UK must be strictly followed to guard against the devastating impact of fire-related incidents.
Understanding Fire Extinguisher Classes and Types
When determining which fire extinguishers are needed for an office, it is crucial to understand the various classes of fires and the extinguishing agents that are most effective against them. There are five main fire classes:
- Class A: Fires involving solid materials such as wood, paper, and textiles.
- Class B: Fires involving flammable liquids like petrol, diesel, or oils.
- Class C: Fires involving gases.
- Class D: Fires involving metals.
- Class F: Fires involving cooking oils and fats.
In tandem, five principal types of fire extinguishers are available:
- Water Extinguishers: Effective on Class A fires.
- Foam Extinguishers: Used for both Class A and B fires.
- Dry Powder Extinguishers: Versatile against Class A, B, and C fires but not recommended for offices.
- CO2 Extinguishers: Ideal for electrical fires and also Class B fires.
- Wet Chemical Extinguishers: Tailored for Class F fires, sometimes effective on Class A.
Choosing the correct type of extinguisher is critical based on the fire risks present in the office environment.
Selecting the Right Fire Extinguisher for an Office
Offices typically contain a variety of fire risks, most commonly from solid combustibles like paper and wood (furniture) and electrical equipment such as computers and servers. Because powdered extinguishers can cause harm to electronics and visibility issues, they are not suitable for indoor office environments.
The most recommended types of fire extinguishers for offices are:
- Water extinguishers for general fire risks like paper, wood, and textiles.
- CO2 extinguishers for electrical fires, offering a non-damaging solution to electronic equipment.
- Foam extinguishers can also be used for paper and wood as well as flammable liquids, though they are less common in typical offices.
- Wet chemical extinguishers may be needed if the office contains a kitchen area where cooking oils are present.
When selecting the right extinguishers, factors such as the office layout, the presence of potential fire hazards, and accessibility should be considered.
Number and Placement of Fire Extinguishers in an Office
The UK law outlines specific requirements regarding the number and placement of fire extinguishers in commercial buildings. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires a minimum level of fire protection for office premises.
- Fire extinguishers should be placed at strategic points like exits and locations that are easily accessible.
- It is recommended that employees should be within a 30-meter travel distance of the appropriate extinguisher.
- Additional considerations include placing fire extinguishers in high-risk areas such as server rooms, storage areas with a large amount of combustible material, and office kitchens.
Maintenance and Servicing of Fire Extinguishers
Regular servicing and maintenance of fire extinguishers are not only a legal requirement but also essential for ensuring they will work when needed. The British Standards recommend that fire extinguishers should be inspected by a competent person annually.
- Frequent visual checks should also be made to ensure extinguishers are not blocked, damaged, or discharged.
- Failure to maintain fire extinguishers properly can lead to them failing to operate in an emergency, potentially leading to severe consequences.
Additional Fire Safety Measures in an Office
Beyond fire extinguishers, there are several other fire safety measures that should be implemented:
- Fire blankets in office kitchens to deal with small cooking fires.
- Clear and visible fire safety signage and instructions throughout the office space.
- Employee training so that staff know how to use fire extinguishers correctly and safely.
Conclusion
The presence and maintenance of the right fire extinguishers in an office are critical for ensuring employee safety and asset protection. Companies should conduct a thorough fire risk assessment and consult with fire safety professionals to determine the precise needs of their office spaces. For more advice and assistance in choosing and maintaining the appropriate fire extinguishers for an office in the UK, businesses should reach out to certified fire safety experts.
At D2 Integrated Systems we provide all types of fire extinguishers for all business sectors across the UK. We also offer comprehensive servicing packages and can take over maintenance of existing systems. Use the button below to get in touch or call us on.