Fire Extinguisher Maintenance: How Often Should It Be Done?

Fire extinguishers are vital safety tools in any workplace or public setting. But having them installed isn’t enough—they must be properly maintained to ensure they work in an emergency. One simple oversight could result in major consequences.

Let’s break down how often you should carry out fire extinguisher maintenance, what’s involved, and who is responsible for keeping your premises compliant.

Why Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Matters

Even the best fire extinguisher won’t be effective if it hasn’t been maintained. Like any safety equipment, extinguishers are prone to wear and tear, pressure loss, corrosion, or damage.

Failing to maintain them not only puts people and property at risk but also breaches UK fire safety regulations—potentially leading to legal penalties.

What Are the Legal Requirements in the UK?

UK fire safety laws are clear when it comes to fire extinguisher maintenance. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all businesses must ensure that fire safety equipment is “subject to a suitable system of maintenance and maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.”

This means regular fire extinguisher inspections, servicing, and record-keeping are not optional—they’re a legal obligation.

How Often Should Fire Extinguishers Be Serviced?

Understanding the correct maintenance schedule can prevent confusion and ensure compliance.

Weekly Checks (Visual Inspections)

Every week, a responsible person should carry out a basic visual check of each fire extinguisher. This involves:

• Ensuring the extinguisher is in its designated place.

• Checking the pressure gauge is in the green zone.

• Looking for signs of damage, corrosion, or leakage.

• Making sure the pin and tamper seal are intact.

• Confirming that operating instructions are clear and readable.

These checks should be logged in a fire safety maintenance logbook.

Annual Servicing by a Competent Person

Once every 12 months, all fire extinguishers must be serviced by a qualified technician in line with BS 5306-3:2017 (the British Standard for maintenance of portable fire extinguishers). This is more thorough than a visual check and includes:

• Checking the weight and pressure of the extinguisher.

• Inspecting internal components.

• Verifying that the hose and nozzle are clear.

• Replacing tamper seals and O-rings as necessary.

• Confirming compliance with manufacturer guidelines.

A maintenance label should be updated with the date of service and next due check.

Extended Servicing or Overhaul

Depending on the extinguisher type, more comprehensive maintenance is required every 5 or 10 years.

Every 5 Years: Water, Foam, and Powder Extinguishers

These units should undergo an extended service, which includes:

• Discharging the extinguisher.

• Checking internal lining for corrosion.

• Refilling and repressurising.

• Replacing parts such as valves or hoses if needed.

Every 10 Years: CO₂ Extinguishers

CO₂ extinguishers require hydraulic testing and refurbishment every decade to ensure the cylinder can withstand pressure safely.

Who Is Responsible for Maintenance?

Fire extinguisher maintenance must be arranged by the ‘responsible person’—typically the business owner, employer, building manager, or landlord.

While weekly checks can be handled internally, annual and extended servicing should always be performed by a competent service technician, usually from a BAFE-certified company.

What Does a Fire Extinguisher Service Include?

Professional servicing covers more than just a quick look. A proper service includes:

Physical Inspection

The technician will inspect for any signs of tampering, vandalism, corrosion, dents, or nozzle blockages.

Pressure Check

Using a pressure gauge or weight measurement, they’ll confirm whether the extinguisher is adequately pressurised.

Label Verification

They will check if the manufacturer’s label is legible and contains all the required safety information.

Recharging and Sealing

If the extinguisher has been used or discharged, even partially, it must be refilled. After servicing, new tamper seals and safety pins are installed.

Record-Keeping

A service label or tag is updated, and a full report is provided to the responsible person for fire safety records.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Schedule Summary

Here’s a quick reference guide to how often you should maintain your fire extinguishers:

Maintenance Task	Frequency	Performed By
Visual inspection	Weekly	Responsible person
Basic annual servicing	Every 12 months	Competent technician
Extended servicing (water/foam)	Every 5 years	Certified technician
Hydraulic testing (CO₂)	Every 10 years	Specialist service provider

Signs Your Fire Extinguishers May Need Immediate Attention

Even between scheduled servicing, keep an eye out for the following issues:

• Pressure gauge in red zone (too low or too high)

• Damaged or missing safety pin

• Corrosion, dents, or leaks

• Loose parts or broken handles

• Discharge or leakage signs

If you notice any of these, contact a fire safety service provider right away for inspection or replacement.

Can Fire Extinguishers Expire?

Yes, fire extinguishers have a shelf life—typically between 10 to 15 years. After this point, even if unused, they may not be reliable. It’s essential to:

• Check the manufacturer’s date.

• Follow extended service or replacement schedules.

• Dispose of expired extinguishers properly (never in general waste).

What Happens If You Don’t Service Your Fire Extinguishers?

Neglecting fire extinguisher maintenance can have serious repercussions:

Legal Consequences

Failure to maintain extinguishers breaches the Fire Safety Order and could lead to enforcement notices, fines, or prosecution by the local fire authority.

Insurance Complications

If a fire occurs and extinguishers were found to be faulty or not maintained, insurance claims could be denied.

Safety Risk

Worst of all, an unmaintained extinguisher may fail during an emergency—putting lives and assets at risk.

How to Choose a Fire Safety Maintenance Provider

Not all fire safety companies are equal. When choosing a provider, look for:

• BAFE registration – Indicates certified competency in fire extinguisher servicing.

• Experience with your extinguisher types – CO₂, foam, dry powder, water mist, etc.

• Full reporting and documentation – To support compliance.

• Responsive support – For urgent servicing or replacements.

Global Compliance UK meets all these criteria and more. We provide dependable fire extinguisher services tailored to your needs, backed by industry qualifications and years of experience.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance for Different Premises

Different settings have varying fire risks—and therefore different extinguisher needs and maintenance considerations.

Offices and Commercial Buildings

Typically require a combination of water, foam, or CO₂ extinguishers. Routine servicing is straightforward but must still be documented and scheduled annually.

Factories and Warehouses

Often have specialist extinguishers like dry powder or foam. These environments may involve heavier wear and tear, making visual inspections even more critical.

Schools and Public Buildings

High foot traffic can lead to accidental damage or tampering. Regular inspections are key to ensuring equipment is accessible and intact.

Hospitality and Retail

Fire risks include kitchens (Class F fires) and electrical equipment. Maintenance must consider extinguisher placement and accessibility.

How to Keep Track of Fire Extinguisher Maintenance

It can be easy to forget maintenance dates unless there’s a system in place.

Try these tips:

• Log all checks and services in a dedicated fire safety logbook.

• Label each extinguisher with the next due service date.

• Schedule digital reminders for inspections and services.

• Use a professional company like Global Compliance UK who can manage your service schedule for you.

Conclusion

Maintaining your fire extinguishers isn’t just a legal box-tick—it’s a vital step in protecting your people, property, and peace of mind.

At Global Compliance UK, we offer comprehensive fire extinguisher servicing across the UK, tailored to your site’s unique needs. Whether you’re managing an office, factory, school, or commercial premises, we’ll ensure your extinguishers are safe, compliant, and ready for use when you need them most. 

Call us at 0330 100 5341 or email us at info@global-compliance.co.uk. We’re here to help you stay compliant and protected, every step of the way.