Dear all Could anyone tell me what is regarded as competent in order to install fire extinguishers I.e place them in the correct locations (new extinguishers) and periodic inspection I.e yearly inspections. I am asking this as a IOSH Chartered Memeber and someone who has completed the NEBOSH Fire Safety Risk Management course. I am asking views on this as I am currently in 'discussion' with a client safety advisor who believes I do not poses the correct qualifications and therefore I am not competent to carry out this task, granted I cannot discharge the fire extinguishers as I have never completed such training so I would require a specialist for this or have to complete the relevant training for this action but surely siting them and completing yearly checks would be acceptable in the realms of what is considered competent? I am finding this very frustrating!

Hi, On what basis would you decide what the right locations were? How would you know how many to fit? On what grounds would specify an extinguishing agent?

If I recall correctly BS5306 gives guidance aout extinguisher locations. SOund slike the old hairy chestnut - how much training is adequate to be competent. Ultimately there is no answer to this, save a Court Judgement for any particular circumstances, if it ever came to that

Some great feedback here, thanks guys! Sometimes working on contracts and being away from health and safety colleagues you feel very much isolated. I think I knew the answer on this one but this forum is great for self assurance :-). Very interesting briefing notes there Martinw, what was these slides released in relation to? All the best...........