Fire Extinguisher Types and Where They Go in UK Workplaces

Choosing the right fire extinguishers for your commercial premises is a fundamental part of UK fire safety compliance: The standard choice for electrical fires** and Class B liquid fires. They displace oxygen and smother the flames without leaving a residue, making them ideal for office. They are often recommended for workshops-RRO 2005, and that the tamper seals remain intact.

The Role of the fire risk assessment

Determining exactly which extinguishers you need and where they should go is a core outcome of your workplace fire risk assessment. The assessment must evaluate the specific combustible materials and ignition sources present in your building to dictate the precise provision of firefighting equipment.

If you are unsure whether your current setup meets the requirements of UK law, HawkSwift Ltd can help. Our NEBOSH-qualified assessors provide thorough, practical evaluations of your premises, delivering detailed reports within 48 hours. With fire risk assessments starting from just £199 + VAT, we make compliance straightforward. To ensure your workplace is fully protected, book a [fire risk assessment](/book) with our team today.

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Your duties under the RRO 2005

• Carry out a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment and keep it current (Art. 9, RRO 2005).
• Identify people at risk, including those who need assistance to evacuate.
• Put general fire precautions in place — detection, warning, escape routes, fighting equipment (Art. 11).
• Maintain those measures in efficient working order (Art. 17).
• Provide staff with fire-safety instruction and training (Art. 21).

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a written fire risk assessment? Yes, if you employ 5+ people, are a licensable or higher-risk premises, or the building is not a private home (Art. 9). How often should I review it? At least annually and immediately after any significant change. Can I do my own? Only if you are competent; many use a qualified NEBOSH-assessed assessor for a court-defensible report. Where do I start? Book a HawkSwift assessment — general guidance, not formal legal advice.

*General guidance, not formal legal advice — book a HawkSwift assessment for your premises.*

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What a competent fire risk assessment covers

A suitable and sufficient FRA follows the PAS 79-1 methodology:

• Stage 1 — Preliminary: gather premises info, identify responsible person and previous assessments.
• Stage 2 — Identify hazards: sources of ignition, fuel and oxygen across all areas.
• Stage 3 — People at risk: occupants, visitors, contractors and anyone needing assistance.
• Stage 4 — Evaluate & protect: whether risks are eliminated or reduced, and whether fire precautions are adequate.
• Stage 5 — Record & plan: write it down, set an action plan with owners and dates, and set the review date.

HawkSwift delivers this as a written, court-defensible report — general guidance, not formal legal advice.