What are fire extinguisher signs?
Fire extinguisher signs, also known as fire extinguisher labels, provide vital information regarding the fire extinguisher they are placed on. They are essential because there are several classes of fire, which can only be safely put out using certain types of fire extinguishers.
What is a Fire Extinguisher Sign?
Fire extinguisher signs are important Fire Safety Signs, as they indicate a location and intended use for the fire extinguisher, a vital piece of fire fighting equipment. Fire extinguisher signs, also referred to as Extinguisher ID signs, or extinguisher labels, provide vital information relating to the fire extinguisher, the types of fire this equipment is designed for and how to use the extinguisher.
Where should fire extinguisher signs be located?
Fire extinguisher signs should be located on the fire extinguisher they refer to, ensuring clear distinction between different types of units.
For example, if your business has an area that is at risk of both Class A fires (combustible materials, such as wood and paper) and electrical fires, you would need to keep both a water and CO2 fire extinguisher. However, if your fire extinguisher labels were located next to the units, it might be unclear which is the correct extinguisher to use on electrical fires.
Given that water is conductive, and would be severely dangerous if used to extinguish a fire where there is a live electrical current, it is essential that fire extinguisher labels are kept on the fire extinguisher.
To learn more about the different classes of fire, read our in-depth guide to the different types of fire extinguishers.
Are fire extinguisher signs required by law?
Yes. Fire extinguisher signs are referenced and required by the British Standards, the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 (HSR) and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety Order) 2005 (RRFSO). The frequency and thoroughness of their inclusion highlights the importance of fire extinguisher signs for your business. The responsibility for installing and maintaining fire extinguisher signs is stipulated in the RRFSO, which requires businesses to appoint a ‘responsible person’ to carry out a fire risk assessment and ensure any required actions are carried out and recorded.
Learn more about fire extinguisher signs
We are experts in fire safety signs so that you don’t have to be. This is why our customer service team is always on hand to help with any queries regarding safety signage. In addition, with our resource hub, you can learn more about fire safety signs and regulations.