Stands and cabinets: A buyer’s guide

Ensuring fire extinguishers are properly stored and easily accessible is not only crucial for safety, it’s a requirement stipulated in the British Standards. But it’s not always easy to ascertain exactly what to put in place to protect fire extinguishers. 

Here, we break down the need-to-know information for care and maintenance of fire extinguishers regarding storage. From how to install fire extinguisher cabinets compliantly to choosing a fire extinguisher floor stand – and the regulations to follow – this guide will help keep vital fire safety equipment safe and secure. 

Why the correct storage of fire extinguishers matters

As stipulated within BS 5306, the correct storage of fire extinguishers cannot be overestimated. Keeping units in a designated location ensures they’re easily accessible if needed in an emergency. Compliant storage also protects fire extinguishers from accidental damage, corrosion, and vandalism. 

What are the legal fire extinguisher storage requirements?

On premises where fire extinguishers are stored outdoors (or within corrosive atmospheres), British Standards stipulate that steps must be taken to prevent fire extinguishers from becoming unsafe for use or inoperable in the event of an emergency. This can be done by protecting the fire extinguisher with a stand or cabinet, or by installing a low freeze additive fire extinguisher designed to withstand temperatures as low as -10°C.

Depending on the premises and environment, fire extinguishers may be at risk from accidental damage (industrial areas such as warehouses or construction sites), vandalism (schools), or corrosion (outdoor settings such as festivals or hospitality venues). But as British Standards points out, all fire extinguishers within public access are at risk of vandalism – even minor tampering can result in the units failing to operate properly when needed the most.

How are fire extinguishers stored and protected?

There are various ways fire extinguishers can be stored, making them easier to access in the event of a fire. From stands to cabinets, the type of storage required ultimately depends on the results of any fire risk assessment conducted, which will highlight the number of fire extinguishers needed in a premises, where they’re best located for easy access, and whether they’re exposed to any external risks. 

Fire extinguisher stands

Fire extinguisher floor stands

For settings in which wall mounting might not be appropriate or possible, fire extinguisher stands offer a practical solution. Our Commander single and double fire extinguisher stands can easily be installed without drilling or specialist tools, offering a fuss-free way to display and protect fire extinguishers. Built to deliver robust strength and durability with obvious and quick access, these stands are ideal for most fire extinguishers. Plus, each has a dedicated area for fire extinguisher ID sign application, explaining how to safely use each unit.

Mobile fire extinguisher stands

For industries where projects move location, a flat-pack fire extinguisher stand can be a huge time and energy saver. Our Flat-Pack Construction Fire Point Stand is ideal for settings such as construction sites, festivals and forecourts, has adequate space for up to four fire extinguishers, with robust nylon wheels to transport fire safety equipment exactly where needed. All that’s required to install is the Allen key the stand comes with, slotting it together in three simple steps.

Tubular fire extinguisher stands

Tubular fire extinguisher stands combine style with safety for a sleek aesthetic, with strong and lightweight designs that are easy to transport. Available in standard red, as well as Contempo colourways antique copper, stainless steel, and polished gold, our tubular single and double fire extinguisher stands provide an obvious fire point without compromising on aesthetics. Pair them with Contempo’s equally luxurious fire extinguishers and safety signage to complete the compliant and striking look.

Fire extinguisher cabinets

Sturdy fire extinguisher cabinets protect fire extinguishers from corrosion, vandalism, or accidental damage, while keeping fire extinguisher storage temperature stable when up against the elements. They’re perfect for situations where fire extinguishers need to be stored outdoors, or in high footfall areas such as schools or leisure centres, and are less likely to be tampered with, scuffed, knocked, or bumped than a fire extinguisher floor stand. 

Standard fire extinguisher cabinets

Our fire extinguisher cabinet range includes single and double cabinets (suitable for safely storing two fire extinguishers up to 9ltr/kg, with lockable versions available). We tested the strength of our cabinets by hitting them with a digger bucket and dropping them from higher than 10 feet – they don’t falter. Their polypropylene construction is also known for its resistance to chemicals and UV rays, meaning our fire extinguisher cabinets can be used in many extreme conditions.

Fire extinguisher vehicle cabinets

In situations where fire extinguishers need to be kept secure in vehicles, or given total weather protection when truck or trailer mounting, a fire extinguisher vehicle cabinet ensures safety and peace of mind. Our 6 kg Commander Vehicle Cabinet and 9-12 kg Commander Vehicle Cabinet are reinforced and non-deformable in structure, guaranteeing solidity, while their internal TPE seals protect against water and dust ingress.

Where should fire extinguisher storage be located?

Fire extinguishers are typically installed by fire exits and fire alarm call-points and mounting them on a stand or inside a cabinet adds an extra level of protection. British Standards stipulate a ’30-metre rule’, in that a person should be no more than 30 metres away from a fire extinguisher wherever they are in the building. The fire extinguishers and stands should be clearly visible and signposted with the appropriate fire extinguisher signage. 

What height should a fire extinguisher cabinet be mounted?

Extinguishers should be fixed to the wall or be held in a cabinet or stand to discourage people from moving them and protect against vandalism and accidental damage. It’s advised that cabinets should be mounted so that, in the event of a fire, the fire extinguisher is reachable by most people: around 3.5 to five feet above the ground.

Where to find the correct storage for fire extinguishers

Always buy fire extinguisher covers, cabinets, and stands from a reliable supplier. This way, you can be confident you’re buying durable storage solutions designed to withstand most external conditions: meeting all the corresponding legislation.

Our fire extinguisher storage range gives full peace of mind for all kinds of applications and industries. From double fire extinguisher stands to protective vehicle cabinets from Commander, browse our full storage range or explore our fire extinguisher stands to discover our innovative offering.