The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 covers general fire safety for England and Wales. It says that it is the responsibility of a Responsible Person to appoint competent persons and ensure employees get adequate training and development. This includes elements of the fire triangle, types of fires, fire protection and prevention awareness and effectively using fire extinguishing equipment. Read our RV Fire Systems article to find out more on who is responsible for using fire extinguishers…
Who is Responsible for Using Fire Extinguishers
Anyone can use a fire extinguisher for escape purposes, for instance if an exit route is blocked by fire. They can use a fire extinguisher to subdue, control or extinguish a fire in order to safely exit the building.
For staff members who investigate and confirm fires, such as fire marshalls, as they will use an extinguisher as a firefighting appliance they need appropriate training.
When should you use a fire extinguisher?
- You have the right extinguisher for the fire type
- You over one metre from the fire
- The room is not full of smoke
- The fire is in its early stages, and it is small, contained, and only needs one fire extinguisher
- The fire is not on or near live electrical equipment, unless the extinguisher has the electrical lightning bolt symbol on its label
- The Emergency services have been called
- After the fire alarm has been sounded and the building evacuation has commenced
When should you not use a fire extinguisher?
- There are high levels of smoke
- The fire is too big or would need more than one fire extinguisher
- The area is too hot
- Fires involving escaping gases or high voltage electrics
RV Fire Systems
For guidance on fire safety compliance and expert advice on using a fire extinguisher, call the professionally certified fire alarms company and FSA accredited fire alarm specialists RV Fire Systems on:-
Clitheroe Fire Extinguishers:- 01200 439333
Blackburn Fire Extinguishers:- 01254 367611
Blackpool Fire Extinguishers:- 01253 804199
Preston Fire Extinguishers:- 01772 970411
Manchester Fire Extinguishers:- 0161 8260480
