HSE Guidance Note on fire extinguishers

The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) Guidance Note on fire extinguishers provides guidance on the selection, installation, and maintenance of fire extinguishers in the workplace. The purpose of the guidance is to help employers meet their legal duties under the Fire Precautions (Amendment) Regulations 1999 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

The guidance note outlines the requirements for different types of fire extinguishers, depending on the nature of the fire risk in the workplace. It provides advice on how many extinguishers are needed, where they should be located, and how they should be maintained.

The HSE guidance note applies to all workplaces, including offices, shops, factories, warehouses, and public buildings. It is aimed at employers, facilities managers, and others responsible for fire safety in the workplace.

The requirements for fire extinguishers in the workplace can vary depending on the size and nature of the workplace, the number of employees, and the type of activities carried out. The HSE guidance note provides a framework for assessing fire risks and selecting appropriate fire extinguishers, as well as advice on how to maintain and use them safely.

The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) Guidance Note on fire extinguishers requires employers to provide evidence to demonstrate compliance with fire safety regulations. This evidence must be provided to enforcing authorities, such as local fire and rescue services, upon request.

The evidence requirements of the HSE guidance note include:

1. Fire risk assessment: Employers must carry out a fire risk assessment to identify potential fire hazards and assess the level of risk. This assessment should be documented and include information on the location and type of fire extinguishers required.

2. Selection of fire extinguishers: The selection of fire extinguishers should be based on the results of the fire risk assessment. Employers must provide evidence to show that the chosen extinguishers are suitable for the specific types of fire risks identified.

3. Location of fire extinguishers: Fire extinguishers must be located in appropriate positions to ensure that they can be accessed quickly in the event of a fire. Employers must provide evidence to show that the location of the extinguishers is suitable and complies with the relevant regulations.

4. Maintenance of fire extinguishers: Fire extinguishers must be regularly maintained to ensure that they remain in good working order. Employers must provide evidence to show that the extinguishers have been serviced and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the relevant regulations.

5. Training: Employees who are expected to use fire extinguishers must be trained in their proper use. Employers must provide evidence to show that employees have received appropriate training.

The evidence provided to demonstrate compliance with the HSE guidance note may include documentation such as fire risk assessments, maintenance records, and training records. This evidence will be used by enforcing authorities to assess whether employers are meeting their legal duties under fire safety regulations.