How Often Should Fire Extinguishers Be Inspected? Your Guide for Shropshire
Fire extinguishers are a critical line of defence in any fire safety strategy. Whether in a commercial warehouse, a school in Shrewsbury, or a residential rental in Church Stretton, having functional extinguishers is not just common sense; it's a legal requirement. But how often should you inspect them to stay compliant and safe?
At AMG Fire Solutions Ltd, we specialise in fire extinguisher installation and servicing throughout Shropshire. This guide explains inspection frequencies, responsibilities, and why regular checks are essential for your peace of mind and legal compliance.
Why Fire Extinguisher Inspections Are So Important
A fire extinguisher might sit unused for years, but in an emergency, it must work instantly. Regular inspections help ensure:
The extinguisher will function in an emergency
The equipment remains compliant with UK fire regulations
Potential issues (like damage, pressure loss or corrosion) are caught early
Failing to carry out proper inspections can lead to:
Legal penalties under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
Insurance claims being rejected
Risk to life and property
In short: inspections aren't optional. They're a vital part of your fire safety duties as a responsible person.
Legal Framework & British Standards
In the UK, fire extinguisher maintenance is governed by:
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
This law requires all fire safety equipment to be maintained in an efficient state and working order. If you're a business owner, landlord or property manager, you're legally responsible for this.
BS 5306-3:2017
This is the British Standard for the commissioning and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers. It provides detailed guidance on:
Inspection intervals
What checks must be performed
Who should carry out the work
AMG Fire Solutions adheres strictly to this standard, with all inspections conducted by BAFE-certified engineers.
How Often Should Fire Extinguishers Be Inspected?
Monthly Visual Checks (By the Responsible Person)
These should be carried out by the business owner, manager or another designated responsible person. They don't require specialist tools or training.
What to check:
Is the extinguisher in its designated location?
Is it clearly visible and accessible?
Are the pressure gauges in the green?
Is the pin and tamper seal intact?
Are there signs of damage, leakage, or corrosion?
Are instructions on the label legible?
For businesses in active environments like hospitality venues in Ludlow or manufacturing sites in Telford, more frequent checks may be advisable.
Annual Basic Service (By a Competent Technician)
Once a year, every extinguisher must be inspected by a trained engineer. This includes:
Full mechanical and visual inspection
Weighing and pressure checks
Checking for corrosion or discharge
Replacing tamper seals and updating service labels
At AMG Fire Solutions, we perform annual servicing for clients across Shropshire, from Oswestry to Bridgnorth.
Extended Service / Overhaul (Every 5 or 10 Years)
Depending on the extinguisher type:
Water, foam, powder, wet chemical: Every 5 years
CO₂ extinguishers: Every 10 years, including pressure testing
This process involves a full discharge, internal inspection and recharging.
We advise our Shropshire clients well in advance to avoid downtime or non-compliance.
Special Circumstances Requiring Immediate Inspection
In addition to regular inspections, extinguishers should be checked immediately if:
They've been used, even partially
They've been dropped or damaged
There's a change in property layout or usage (e.g., opening a commercial kitchen)
The extinguisher has been exposed to extreme temperatures or moisture
Our team provides reactive call-outs across the county to handle these ad-hoc servicing needs.
Record-Keeping & Compliance
Maintaining accurate records is a key part of fire safety compliance.
We recommend:
Keeping a fire safety logbook on-site
Recording all inspections (monthly & annual)
Retaining service labels with technician signatures
AMG Fire Solutions provides digital and paper service reports after each visit, making compliance audits stress-free.
Why Choose AMG Fire Solutions Ltd in Shropshire?
BAFE-Certified Engineers: All inspections are carried out by fully qualified personnel
Trusted Locally: Over 20 years of experience and 5-star rated service
Full Coverage: Serving Shrewsbury, Telford, Oswestry, Bridgnorth, Ludlow, and surrounding areas
Commercial & Residential: We work with landlords, offices, schools, warehouses and more
Fully Insured & Accredited
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does fire extinguisher servicing cost?
Prices vary based on the number and type of extinguishers, but we offer competitive rates and free quotes for Shropshire clients.
Can I inspect my own fire extinguishers?
Yes, but only monthly visual checks. Annual services and overhauls must be done by a qualified technician.
Do extinguishers need replacing?
Eventually, yes. We typically recommend replacing units older than 10 years, especially if servicing costs exceed replacement costs.
Protect Your Property with Regular Inspections
If you're a business owner or property manager in Shrewsbury or anywhere across Shropshire, ensuring your fire extinguishers are properly inspected isn't just a box to tick; it's a crucial safety measure that protects lives, assets, and your legal standing.
At AMG Fire Solutions Ltd, we provide professional fire extinguisher servicing with reliability, compliance and local care. Whether you're due for an annual check or need an urgent inspection, we're here to help.
Call us on 01743 612007 or email brendanalton@amg-firesolutions.co.uk to book your service today.