Fire extinguishers are one of the most recognisable pieces of fire safety equipment. They are placed throughout offices, shops, and public buildings in Durham, ready to be used in an emergency. However, a fire extinguisher is only useful if it works correctly. Without regular servicing, these vital safety tools can fail when they are needed most.
Why is servicing important for Durham offices?
Durham is home to a mix of modern business parks and historic office buildings. In both environments, fire extinguishers are a crucial part of workplace safety. Offices often have multiple risks, from electrical fires caused by computers to kitchen fires in staff areas. Serviced extinguishers provide reassurance that staff can act quickly and effectively in an emergency.
Regular servicing is not just about safety. It is also a legal requirement. The Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005 places responsibility on the employer or building owner to ensure fire safety equipment is maintained and ready for use at all times.
What does fire extinguisher servicing involve?
When you arrange a professional service, a qualified engineer will carry out several checks, including:
- Confirming the extinguisher is in the correct location and accessible.
- Checking for corrosion, dents, leaks, or signs of tampering.
- Ensuring the pressure gauge is at the correct level.
- Weighing the extinguisher to confirm no discharge has occurred.
- Replacing safety seals and pins if required.
- Ensuring clear operating instructions are displayed.
- Recording the service for compliance and audit purposes.
If any extinguisher is faulty or out of date, it will be replaced or refilled.
How often should extinguishers be serviced?
- Monthly checks should be carried out by a responsible person within your office to confirm extinguishers are undamaged and accessible.
- Annual professional servicing must be performed by a trained engineer.
- Extended servicing every five years is required for most types of extinguisher, including refilling and part replacement.
- Full replacement at ten years is standard for many units, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
What are the risks of neglecting servicing?
Neglecting extinguisher maintenance can have severe consequences for businesses in Durham:
- Non-compliance fines: Local inspections are strict, and failing to provide evidence of servicing can result in penalties.
- Insurance problems: Claims may be denied if equipment was found to be faulty or neglected.
- Danger in an emergency: An extinguisher that fails during a fire can put lives at risk and allow damage to spread.
- Reputation damage: Clients and employees expect a safe and responsible workplace.
Why it matters for Durham offices specifically
Durham combines heritage buildings with modern offices. In older structures, evacuation can be slower due to narrow staircases or complex layouts. This makes extinguishers an even more critical part of the first line of defence. In larger, open-plan offices, extinguishers are required at set intervals so that staff can always reach one quickly.
Multi-tenant offices in Durham also add complexity, as multiple businesses share safety responsibilities. In these cases, it is essential that extinguishers are properly maintained for the protection of everyone in the building.
Why choose Expert Fire Solutions in Durham?
We provide professional fire extinguisher servicing in Durham, ensuring businesses remain compliant and safe. Our BAFE-certified technicians carry out thorough inspections and servicing in line with British Standards. We also provide written reports for your fire safety records, giving you proof of compliance if you face an audit.
We work with businesses across Durham, from city centre offices to companies based on industrial estates and business parks. Our goal is to make fire safety straightforward and reliable.
Peace of mind through regular servicing
A serviced extinguisher is a reliable extinguisher. By arranging annual maintenance, you not only meet your legal obligations but also give your staff confidence that they are protected in an emergency.
Book your service today
Protect your staff, your office, and your future.
Contact Expert Fire Solutions today to arrange fire extinguisher servicing in Durham.
