Fire Protection for Business
May 27, 2025
Common Causes of Workplace Fires
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Fire extinguishers are one of the simplest and most effective tools for tackling a fire in its early stages. But like any piece of safety equipment, they don’t last forever. If you run a business, it’s important to understand how long fire extinguishers last, when they need replacing, and what the law requires from you.
Yes, fire extinguishers do expire. Most units are designed to last between 5 and 15 years, depending on the type and manufacturer. Even if an extinguisher looks fine on the outside, over time the internal pressure can drop, seals can fail, and the contents may become less effective.
A fire extinguisher past its usable life may not discharge correctly when you need it most, which could put lives and property at risk.
Disposable fire extinguishers (the kind you can’t refill) usually last around 5–6 years.
Rechargeable fire extinguishers (the type you can service and refill) can last 10–15 years if properly maintained.
In both cases, annual servicing is required to make sure they are still safe and effective.
Even before it reaches its expiry date, you should replace or service a fire extinguisher if you notice:
A broken seal or missing safety pin
Visible damage such as dents, rust, or cracks
A pressure gauge in the red zone (too high or too low)
Leaks around the nozzle or hose
Labels that are faded or unreadable
If any of these issues are found, the extinguisher should be taken out of service immediately.
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all businesses must have appropriate fire safety measures in place, including working fire extinguishers.
UK law requires:
A minimum of two Class A fire extinguishers per floor in most workplaces.
Annual servicing by a qualified fire extinguisher technician.
A full extended service (discharge test and refill) typically every 5 years, depending on the extinguisher type.
Failure to comply can result in fines, enforcement notices, or even prosecution if inadequate fire safety leads to harm.
A fire extinguisher is only useful if it works when needed. An expired or faulty extinguisher can:
Fail to discharge in an emergency
Leave staff unprotected
Increase the damage caused by fire
Breach your legal responsibilities as an employer or business owner
It’s a simple check that can make all the difference in an emergency.
Fire extinguishers are not “fit and forget” items. They need regular checks, professional servicing, and timely replacement to remain effective. Knowing the lifespan of your extinguishers and spotting the warning signs of wear can help keep your workplace safe and compliant.
Next step:
Book a professional fire extinguisher service today to ensure your workplace equipment is up to date and fully compliant.
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