Hi all. We have been approached by a supplier regarding the P50 maintenance free fire extinguishers. The spiel is that they last 10 years (foam) as opposed to the normal 5 and do not need servicing. This goes against my IFE training where extinguishers need to be serviced by BAFE trained service engineers (for which I am also trained and service in-house) Another selling point is that the foam also covers electrical contact which eliminates the need for all our Co2 Extinguishers (office environment) On the basis that we look after over 550 premises, this is something that my company is looking at as there is a cost saving. They have asked me for my opinion and before I respond, I would like to know if anyone else has come across these and what did you make of them? I would certainly be apprehensive to remove the 1000's of Foams and Co2's from our premises on the basis of a 'new product' that may or may not still be available in 5 - 10 years time, let alone the cost of removing/replacing all the old brackets/signage (re-decorating) as well as updating all our fire Policies, Training and Emergency Fire Plans. I'm on the road tomorrow so will look back in on Friday for your opinions. Many thanks

Thanks Alan. This is obviously a new product hence not many replies. I would be a lot more comfortable knowing these were available from other manufacturers as opposed to exclusively 1.

Indeed - as are the hydra spray units (water extinguishers with an additive). They are tested against 'accidental' release on electrical installations up to 35,000 volts I believe. Again - it is all down to emphasis.