The Importance of Fire Extinguisher Commissioning

Monday 2nd September 2024

What is fire extinguisher commissioning?

Fire extinguisher commissioning is the initial inspection of new fire extinguishers by a qualified fire extinguisher engineer. This inspection involves looking for visible faults, or signs of damage to the extinguisher which may have occurred during transit. It is essential that these inspections are done on-site where the extinguisher will be installed, as a damaged extinguisher may not be effective in an emergency. Depending on the type of damage it could even cause harm to the user if deployed.

Enquire about our On-site Commissioning & Installation service today

two engineers in a warehouse, wearing hi-vis jackets checking the quality of two extinguishers — On-site Commissioning & Installation

Do my fire extinguishers need to be commissioned?

British Standard BS5306-3:2009 specifically requests on-site commissioning to be completed after transportation. Suppliers will deliver new extinguishers containing the required fire fighting medium, meaning that they are technically ready for use. However, fire extinguishers must never be used, or installed, until a qualified engineer has commissioned the unit. This is because no matter how strong the supplier’s quality checks are, there can be no guarantee that the unit is safe for use, as it may have been damaged in transit.

To ensure that new fire extinguishers are fit for purpose, they should always be purchased through a reputable supplier which has third party certification. This includes BAFE accreditation, which can only be obtained by organisations that have demonstrated that the services and products they provide conform to recognised standards. This provides peace of mind about quality and compliance.

Our On-site Commissioning & Installation service is available for all fire extinguishers. Contact our friendly servicing team today on 0800 612 4827 for more information.

BAFE accreditation Logo

Can I buy pre-commissioned extinguisher

No reputable fire safety company will supply pre-commissioned fire extinguishers. While this option may appear convenient, in practice, it could mean that the extinguisher will not work if a fire breaks out. The extinguisher may have been deemed safe for use at the suppliers warehouse, there is no way to guarantee that the unit has not been compromised on its way to the end user. Some issues may be obvious, and could be picked up by a member of staff on arrival. However, some damage may be more subtle, and can only be identified by a qualified engineer.

On-site fire extinguisher commissioning is therefore a requirement which protects the user. While providing organisations with peace of mind that their extinguishers will be fit for use in the event of a fire. The practise of pre-commissioning puts the customer both at the risk of injury and exposes them to substantial legal liabilities.

Risks of pre-commissioned extinguishers

Cylinders may be dented, which may impact the medium they contain
Tubing can become detached or damaged, meaning the medium cannot be expelled effectively, or at all
Handles and safety pins can get bent to a degree that they cannot be used in an emergency. This often happens when low quality fire extinguishers rest on their heads in transit
Extinguishers containing CO2 can leak during transit. This type of extinguisher does not have a pressure valve, and so only a careful weight test during commissioning (removing the horn and measuring with precision scales) will reveal any loss in pressure and weight
End users require a certificate by an engineer to state that their premises are covered in accordance to the British Standard. A pre filled in servicing label on the extinguisher does not certify that the extinguisher is installed in the correct position, or that it is in fact the right extinguisher for the risks present at the location

Fire extinguisher commissioning vs servicing

Fire extinguisher commissioning must be done by a trained engineer upon installation, to ensure that it is fit for purpose. This includes ensuring that it is the right type of extinguisher for the risks present in the area, and that it is not damaged or otherwise compromised. Commissioning must be done before the extinguisher is used, as it may not be safe to discharge, even in the event of a fire.

Fire extinguisher servicing often involves similar checks by a trained engineer, but is not required upon installation. Depending on the type of extinguisher and its age, this can sometimes involve disassembly and refilling. To comply with British Standards, steel fire extinguishers need to be serviced annually. Failure to do so puts lives at risk, and there could be legal action if the servicing has not been completed. Especially, if an extinguisher fails to discharge, or causes harm to the user in the event of a fire. Servicing also ensures that the Responsible Person is made aware when their extinguishers are nearing their end of life, so that replacements can be sourced in good time.

Service-free extinguishers do not need to be serviced annually by an engineer. However, they must still be commissioned on site upon installation, and visually checked by a trained member of staff annually.

Servicing and Commissioning Options

Always ensure that fire extinguishers are supplied by a reputable company with third party accreditation, and commissioned upon installation by a qualified engineer. This ensures that the extinguisher is fit for purpose, and ready for use in the event of a fire. Commissioning and annual servicing in line with British Standards also protects organisations from legal action in the event of a fire, particularly if an extinguisher is damaged or faulty when required.

For more information about fulfilling your extinguisher installation and maintenance requirements, contact Safelincs on 0800 612 4827 or email support@safelincs.co.uk.

How is a Trauma Kit different from a First Aid Kit?

Thursday 1st August 2024

Trauma kits are used when specialist equipment is required to help stop severe bleeding. Typically, in a trauma kit you will find specialist items such as haemostatic gauze which is a type of bandage that helps the blood start to clot quicker. A tourniquet is a device that is tied, then tightened, around a limb to slow down or even cut off the blood supply. Preventing an injured person from losing too much blood until the emergency services arrive and can take over. Chest seals are another type of bandage that has been developed for deep puncture wounds to the chest, neck and abdomen. A chest seal does not stop a wound from bleeding. Rather, it works to close off the wound to prevent air from entering the chest cavity. Many versions also have a vent mechanism to allow any air that’s already trapped in the chest to leave.

What is a catastrophic bleed?

This is an increasingly common ‘umbrella’ term for a life-threatening bleeds, arterial bleeds and non-compressible bleeds i.e. not controllable by ordinary means. A catastrophic bleed is when the bleeding is so severe that it is not possible to stop it with direct pressure. It usually occurs due to a damaged artery and someone can bleed to death in a matter of minutes. When dealing with a catastrophic bleed, stopping the bleeding takes priority over everything else – including CPR.

Trauma kits have been created in conjunction with medical professionals, counter terrorism officers and military experts. They contain specific products to help stop major bleeding allowing the first responder to treat major blood loss.

Martyn’s Law

After the Manchester arena bombing, Figen Murray the mother of Martyn Hett who tragically lost his life along with 21 others, has been campaigning to have better protection against terrorist attacks in public places. It is estimated that on that evening around 800 people were hurt, and 112 were hospitalised for their injuries. The legislation that is due to become law, requires that public venues are better equipped to deal with mass casualties. Part of the requirements will be to have trauma kits to help stop catastrophic bleeds. In the case of a terror attack, there tends to be a lot of casualties that can often overwhelm the emergency services. By having trauma kits on hand that can be used by anyone the hope is that more people will survive.

High risk work places

Trauma kits are also invaluable for certain high-risk industries such as agriculture, forestry, construction, wood working, and glass cutting. It is possible use some of the equipment yourself which would be especially good for lone workers. Our range of trauma kits come in different sizes depending on your requirements.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning When Camping or Caravanning

Thursday 25th April 2024

Each year when camping or caravanning there are serious illnesses or even death from the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning. Most of these could have been prevented if the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) had been more widely known and some simple preventative steps taken. In the UK around 50 people die and 200 people are hospitalised, while not all of these people will have been camping, the risks are significantly higher. As the gas is odourless and colourless there is no way to detect if the gas is present. The gas makes you drowsy and can make you unable to respond to other warning signs such as headaches and nausea.

Because tents and caravans are a confined space, the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning is greater. Therefore, having an audible CO alarm is an essential item to put on your packing list.

The Kidde 7DCO CO Alarm for caravans and motorhomes

Sources of carbon monoxide poisoning when camping or caravanning

Gas or coal fired cooking appliances, such as BBQ’s, are sometimes bought inside tents or caravan awnings to provide warmth or to cook. Which can fill the space up quickly with carbon monoxide gas, a by-product when burning a fossil fuel. The gas then renders the occupants unconscious and death can occur as a result.

Carbon monoxide gas can be produced due to faulty, poorly maintained or improper installation of gas appliances in caravans. It is important to ensure fuel burning appliances fitted by a qualified installer. Solid fuel appliances must be maintained and serviced annually by a reputable, registered engineer.

Carbon monoxide detectors for camping and caravanning

If you have already fitted a CO detector, ensure that you carry out your pre-holiday safety checks. This should include checking or replacing the batteries and testing smoke, heat and CO alarms. It is also advisable to check when your alarms need replacing. Sensors in these types of alarms become less effective over time and will need to be replaced after 10 years.

Not all carbon monoxide alarms are suitable for use in caravans or motorhomes. Choosing a suitable alarm is important because if the CO alarm you have isn’t recommended for use in camping environments, you may not be alerted to dangerous levels of CO gas. Choose an alarm that is:

Kitemarked to British Standard BS EN50291-2
Certified for use in caravans
Suitable for wall mounting
Battery operated
CE marked

Concerns over fire safety for e-bikes and e-scooters

Thursday 4th April 2024

In recent years there has been an increase in the number of electric powered bikes and scooters being purchased. Along with the number of publicly available e-bikes and e-scooters this has created concerns over fire safety. The reports of fires starting has increased, usually when the battery is being charged, raising a number of concerns of the quality of some of the bikes and scooters available to buy.

While in general the benefits are clear; speed of travel (compared to walking), convenience, reduced environmental impact compared to other modes (such as cars) and reduced transport costs. It is likely that in time, privately owned e-scooters would be legal to use on public highways and play a role in future urban transport. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the bike or scooter that you are buying is of good quality.

Things to consider before making a purchase

Do your research, look online or in store to see which e-bikes and e-scooters have had good reviews and the ones that haven’t so you can make an informed choice on the best one to buy within your budget.
Buy from a reputable retailer for all the components, including battery pack and charger.
When purchasing replacements parts, ensure these are purchased from the same manufacturer.
Register the product with the manufacturer – to be notified quickly of any safety issues or recalls.
Be cautious if buying second-hand, refurbished or converted bikes. It can be hard to establish reliability, whether it is counterfeit or genuine, and whether they meet proper UK standards. Look for CE or UKCA marking.

Tips for safer charging of batteries

Do not store or charge batteries in communal areas, especially if they form part of the escape route.
If the battery is hot after use, allow it to cool before putting on charge.
Do not overcharge the battery – check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not cover chargers or battery packs when charging as this could lead to overheating and possibly fire.
Keep batteries out of direct sunlight.
Do not overload sockets or extension leads – ensure the extension lead is suitably rated for what you are using it for.
Do not charge batteries overnight or while you are away from home. If a fire should start you will be alert and aware.
Regularly check your batteries and chargers, and do not use them if there are any signs of damage; replace them immediately.
If you regularly recharge batteries, or have several on charge at once, consider installing a Lithium-Ion Battery Containment Safe, or ask your landlord for one.

Warning signs of danger to look out for

Heat – it is normal for batteries to generate some heat when charging or in use. If it feels extremely hot to the touch, stop charging straight away.
Bulging or leaks – a common sign of a battery failing is bulging or swelling. If you see this you should stop using it immediately.
Noise – failing lithium batteries can sometimes make hissing or cracking sounds.
Smell – a strong or unusual smell from the battery could be a sign that it is failing.

Holiday Home Owners Must Now Record Fire Risk Assessments

Friday 10th November 2023

From the 1st October 2023, new legislation came into effect that states it is now a legal requirement for all businesses, including holiday home owners, to record a fire risk assessment.

Does my holiday home need a fire risk assessment?

Protect your guests by having a Fire Risk Assessment

If you have a small let property (that is not let as a principal residence), then the law applies to you. You need to ensure that a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is carried out. Plus, you must also keep records of the FRA so that these can be checked.

You can complete one yourself, but you should read through the guidance notes carefully and understand the implications. If you do not feel confident to complete one then you can employ the services of a fire risk assessor. They will go through the potential risks and findings with you so you know what actions you need to take.

How do I carry out a fire risk assessment?

You will need to look at your property and identify all the things that could be a fire risk. Look at how to reduce those risks and quickly alert the occupants of danger. The fire escape routes should be maintained to allow guests to safely evacuate.

Providing a safe escape route is essential

The main areas of risk that will need to be looked at are:

Electrical installations and equipment
Smoking
Arson
Heating
Cooking
Housekeeping
Furniture and Furnishings
Contractors
Dangerous Substances

It is also important to think about the type of guests you will have in your property. The very young and old or people with a physical, visual or auditory impairment may need additional equipment to alert them of danger.

What fire safety equipment does my holiday home need?

Recent guidance from the UK Government outlines recommendations to protect guests from the risk of fire in your holiday accommodation. Some of the changes/improvements that have been identified may require the services of a third party. Qualified contractors may be needed to carry out work on, for example, fire detection and alarm systems, fire-resisting doors, and fire protection systems.

It is important that you ensure that contractors are competent to carry out the work, as the ultimate responsibility for compliance of their work with fire safety legislation rests with you.

Remember, as holiday home owners, taking the time to carry out and act on your fire risk assessment protects you, your guests, your premises and your business.

How often do I have to check for fire risks?

It is good practice that between lets you check the property and go through each of the main areas to ensure there is no damage to electrical appliances. Also, check if any fire safety equipment has been removed or damaged as you will need to replace these before you can let out the property again.

Gas boilers should be checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. If you have open fires or log burners these should be swept annually especially before their first use as the weather turns cooler.

A fire risk assessment should be carried out annually. However, if there has been substantial building work or if there has been a fire then it will be necessary to do this before letting out the property again.

Read our guide ‘Fire safety for Holiday Lets‘ for more information about keeping your guests safe.