I see no reason for extinguisher signs as the usage information is given on the extinguisher, plus fire safety training training should cover any shortfalls. In my opinion the extinguisher signage is a money making scheme from the extinguisher maintenance companies.

SBH

Agree with DJ and SBH

For fire extinguishers that are easily visible, there is no need for additional signage.

It is written in one of the guidance books, somewhere, but I can't remember right now. Also been told this a number of times by various fire officers.

As per SBH, additional signs are a money making scheme by fire extinguisher suppliers/service engineers.

http://www.westyorksfire...956a259e40f3281e259.docx

Additional signage is not required, according to West Yorkshire Fire Service.

If the link doesn't work, then search the site with the term 'fire extinghuishers' -its about the 3rd or 4th document that shows up.

I have some sympathy with companies who succumb to the fire extinguisher maintenance guys selling techniques. Extinguishers, hose-reels, signs and other equipment requirements such as fire doors should be covered in a legally required fire risk assessment - by a competent person.

The key is using someone competent and independent rather than a company that sells the kit too! I constantly come across premises where they have double or treble the amount of extinguishers they need on-site because some guy (on a pyramid-style sales bonus) told a caretaker or secretary that they need one to cover each microwave, or each photocopier, or each store cupboard, or PC etc.

Worse still, they are often located in areas that narrow corridors and or inhibit exits if the sale cannot be made without such compromise. The bonus is paid out as the supply company will then charge EVERY year for maintenance and ultimately replacement. I am not against having a few extra extinguishers in a large plant, but anyone who wants to save a few pounds EACH year should consider asking someone independent what they need - including signage - and get a sensible control in place.

The Fire Safety Order is clear on this issue: Article 13 states (my CAPITALS)

13.—(1) WHERE NECESSARY (whether due to the features of the premises, the activity carried on there, any hazard present or any other relevant circumstances) in order to safeguard the safety of relevant persons, the responsible person must ensure that—

(a)the premises are, to the extent that it is appropriate, equipped with appropriate fire-fighting equipment and with fire detectors and alarms; and

(b)any non-automatic fire-fighting equipment so provided is easily accessible, simple to use and indicated by signs.

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So it is simple. If it is necessary (as the firefighting equipment is hidden behind a curtain, bar or in a box) then a sign is required. If it is hanging unobstructed and clearly visible, then signs are not required.

There are many 'where necessary's in the FSO. it is vital they are taken into account when reading the Article, as if you read the signs passage and discount the 'where necessary' phrase, it appears that signs are mandatory. This is how extinguisher sales folk sell so many!

I actually think these signs are a good idea. But at £1.50 to £15 each, plus installation/labour fees, we have decided not to install them with our 3,500+ pieces of FFE at the moment. We would rather spend the money on extinguisher training

Going back to my original questions though whats everyones interpretation/opinion on the statement below?

2.1.1 of the signs and signals regs states "Permanent signboards must be used for signs relating to prohibitions, warnings and mandatory requirements and the location and identification of emergency escape routes and first-aid facilities.

Signboards and/or a safety colour must be used to mark permanently the location and identification of fire-fighting equipment".