Do fire extinguishers expire?

Can a fire extinguisher expire? The short answer is yes, there comes a time when every fire extinguisher expires. Most fire extinguishers are even marked with an expiration date. But there are several variables that can affect how long a fire extinguisher performs compliantly, from the type of extinguishing agent used in a unit to environmental conditions.

To spot the signs of a damaged or expired fire extinguisher, risk assessments are vital. Here, we explain the importance of properly assessing a unit’s effectiveness, how to do it, and what to do when it’s fire extinguisher replacement time.

How long before fire extinguishers expire?

With proper care, annual servicing, and regular maintenance, most fire extinguishers perform compliantly in the event of a fire for up to five years. A CO2 fire extinguisher replacement time is double that – requiring an extended service every 10 years.

What to do when a fire extinguisher replacement is needed

As mentioned, most fire extinguishers require an extended service every five years. When that time comes, it’s important that the unit is serviced by a qualified engineer, who’ll conduct a detailed inspection of the fire extinguishers, including a full discharge. From here, depending on the findings of the extended service, the engineer will dictate whether the fire extinguisher is to be refilled or replaced. For whatever reason fire extinguishers reach the end of life, all can be recycled.

How to figure out a fire extinguisher’s replacement time

Between service dates, knowing how to read an expiration date on fire extinguisher units can also help make sure an annual service hasn’t been overlooked. Look for dates stamped onto the cylinder body, printed on the unit’s label, or on the unit itself.

Can fire extinguishers expire before the expiration date?

There are various factors that can lead to the degradation of a fire extinguisher. Units may be at risk from accidental damage (common in industrial areas), corrosion (in outdoor settings such as petrol stations or festivals), or changes in pressure. While locations such as schools are particularly at risk of vandalised fire extinguishers, British Standards points out that all units within public access are at risk – even minor tampering can result in the equipment failing to perform properly in an emergency. It’s important to visually inspect all fire extinguishers at least once a month to ensure units are visible, intact, and functioning properly.

Are expired fire extinguishers dangerous?

Every second is vital in the event of a fire, and expired fire extinguishers can deter the protection of people and property. For this reason, BS 5306-3 requires a responsible person to be absolutely certain that units work as they should if a fire breaks out. Without complete certainty, lives could be lost. To avoid legal repercussions, reputational harm, and even jail time (if found to be non-compliant with fire extinguisher inspection regulations following a fire), compliance is crucial.

How to protect fire extinguishers

While inspection of fire extinguishers is an important legal obligation, British Standards also state that every measure is taken to store units properly, protecting them from corrosion and vandalism. It’s the duty of all responsible person(s) to ensure measures are taken to reduce the possibility of fire extinguishers being vandalised, stolen, or subject to wear and tear. Regulations state steps should be taken to either:

A) Protect the unit with a fire extinguisher cabinet, stand, or other storage.

B) Specify and install an alternative fire extinguisher designed to withstand certain environments (for example, a low-freeze additive fire extinguisher).

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