Annual maintenance of portable fire extinguishers is mainly seen as a cost that organisations would like to avoid, especially when they are struggling to emerge from the long-term problems we have had in the economy.
However, the implications of not having a trained Technician visiting business premises, on an annual basis as a minimum, should be considered, as should the additional benefits gained from the technician during their visit.
Provided the process of selection of the maintenance contractor is guided by the correct criteria:carrying all the right insurances and accreditation.
Obviously the Technician’s first duty is to carry out the work they are employed for, primarily the service of the portable extinguishers, to the current British Standard 5306 part 3. Whilst on the way around the building, other elements are considered, In most instances, this Technician may be just contracted to service the portable fire equipment but the reality is, an organisation can get considerably more from the Technician., as things change inside the workplace. This could include relocating and fitting any equipment that has been moved around. New machinery, changes in processes, new products being used or manufactured, an added kitchen or temporary Portakabin, these areas need evaluation to consider whether, the Fire Risk level has changed, increased or even decreased. Departments also move inside buildings and the change in fire risk is often not even considered.
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In all premises just ensuring fire equipment is located correctly, not obstructed and that there are no signs of tampering or discharge can justify a regular visit alone.
The Fire extinguisher Technician is fully trained to recognise all of these areas and will advise on the movement of equipment or, change of equipment if required, using BS 5306 as the reference document or indeed their bible.
The Technician will also inform the staff on the type of portable equipment, and give instruction on how to safely use the extinguishers and what to use them on.
Cobra fire protection Ltd now train their Technicians in the recognition and installation of escape and warning signs, therefore whilst the Technician is on the premises, they will make sure that all the firefighting equipment, doors, alarms and extinguishers etc. are identified to meet the required standard. Evacuation from the building in the event of a problem is crucial and the means of escape has to be clearly signed. The engineer only using signs that conform to the correct standards, detailing non-compliant signs and offering the correct solution will ensure that the means of escape is clear and visible for the site.
An instruction on how to use the portable equipment is not classed as training, however the engineer will check to see if a more in depth training package is required and can advise on this with the responsible person on site.
Once the engineer has completed the service, there are a couple of things left for him to do. He will fill in the log book and issue Certificate of Conformity ensuring that the business has documentation, if needed to show the enforcing authorities as proof, and that maintenance regimes are in place for fire protection equipment.
The Engineer may also be able to arrange for a Risk Assessor to attend site to carry out a full Risk Assessment in accordance with the requirements of the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005. This will ensure businesses are complying with the legislation.
The portable fire extinguisher Technician is trained and keeps up to date with all the current codes of practice therefore delivering a more detailed, clear and in depth service than just maintenance of fire extinguishers.
The lack of periodical visits may not affect some well-managed premises but most premises would benefit with the regular visit from somebody looking at the fire safety systems and procedures in place.
