Can I Install My Own Fire Extinguisher?
Fire extinguishers play a fundamental role in commercial fire safety, and it’s essential that every business has fire extinguisher units that have been properly installed.
It’s also a legal requirement, according to The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, for every business to have ‘appropriate fire-fighting equipment’ onsite, with this almost always taking the form of fire extinguishers.
If you’re wondering how to install a fire extinguisher or whether you can do so yourself, Millennium Fire Protection is here to help.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at all of the considerations when installing fire extinguishers.
Can I install my own fire extinguisher?
Yes, you can install your own fire extinguishers, but it is not recommended.
Unless you work for a professional fire company yourself, you should not install your own extinguishers as there are a variety of things that need to be considered.
The process involves so much more than simply putting the extinguisher in the areas they’re needed and only a professional company can be trusted to do so safely.
Why shouldn’t I install my own fire extinguisher?
Fire extinguishers play an extremely important role in fire safety. Even the smallest mistake or incorrect installation could have devastating consequences if a fire does occur, so it’s important the installation process is conducted professionally.
Furthermore, before fire extinguishers are installed, a few checks need to take place to ensure they’re in good working order. This process is known as ‘commissioning’ and can only be done by a professional company.
How to install a fire extinguisher
Installing a fire extinguisher, or commissioning as it is officially known, involves conducting several tests and checks.
These include:
Make sure the extinguisher hasn’t been activated
Sometimes, a fire extinguisher can accidentally activate during transportation. So the first thing we’ll do is check that the safety clip remains intact and there are no visible signs of damage that may indicate activation has occurred.
Check the pressure gauge
For a fire extinguisher to be safe to use, the internal pressure must be at a certain level. Most units have a green area on the gauge that indicates they are safe, and we’ll check the pressure to ensure this is the case.
Test the safety pin
We’ll test the safety pin to ensure the unit is safe. This involves gently removing the pin and checking that handles and levers are working properly.
Weigh the extinguisher
A fire extinguisher must be a certain weight as this helps to determine the correct extinguishant inside. If the weight is 10% lighter than expected, it will need to be replaced.
Check instructions are clear
If an extinguisher is needed, instructions must be clear and legible so the user knows what to do.
Check seals are in place for valves, hoses, horns and nozzles
All of these things are integral to the overall safety of a unit, so we’ll ensure all seals are in good working order.
Check the removable operating mechanism
These do not feature on all units, but if yours has one we will remove, clean and lubricate it.
Complete the maintenance label
All maintenance that is carried out on a fire extinguisher must be recorded, so we’ll make sure the maintenance label is in place, and fill out the commissioning record.
As you can see, there is a lot that goes into the installation of fire extinguishers. With this in mind, using a professional fire safety company like Millennium Fire Protection is the best way to make sure your fire extinguishers are installed safely. Working across Watford, Harrow, Ealing and beyond, contact Millennium Fire Protection today to learn more.