Who Is Responsible for Using a Fire Extinguisher?
When a fire breaks out, every second matters. While alarms, evacuation plans and fire doors play their part, it’s often a portable fire extinguisher that can prevent a small incident from becoming a major emergency. But when those crucial moments arrive, who is responsible for using it? Understanding this isn’t just best practice – it’s a key part of workplace safety and compliance.
Fire Extinguisher Use: Who Should Operate One in the Workplace?
In the UK, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 places responsibility for fire safety on the ‘responsible person’. This is typically the employer, building owner or occupier.
The law requires:
· Sufficient fire-fighting equipment is provided
· Appropriate people are trained in its safe use
· Employees understand when and how to respond
This means portable fire extinguishers are not intended for general use by everyone. Only those with appropriate training should attempt to operate one.
What Fire Marshals Learn: PASS for a Fire Extinguisher and More
In most workplaces, designated fire marshals or fire wardens are responsible for extinguisher use. They’re trained to assess situations quickly and apply the PASS method:
· Pull the pin
· Aim at the base of the fire
· Squeeze the handle
· Sweep side to side
Their training also includes understanding the different type of extinguishers, such as foam, water, CO₂ and dry powder – and knowing which to use for which class of fire.
Water Fire Extinguisher Used for Class A Fires – Not Electrical Hazards
A water extinguisher is used for Class A fires involving solid combustibles like wood, paper or cloth. It is never suitable for electrical fires or fires involving flammable liquids.
Knowing the class of fire and extinguisher is crucial. Using a water extinguisher on a live electrical source can cause serious injury.
Foam Fire Extinguisher Use and Fire Extinguisher for Flammable Liquids
A foam extinguisher is effective for both Class A and Class B fires. Class B includes flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel or oil. The foam forms a barrier on the liquid surface, helping prevent re-ignition.
In areas where fuel, solvents or chemicals are present, a fire extinguisher for flammable liquids must always be readily available and operable by trained staff only.
Understanding CO2 Fire Extinguisher Use for Electrical Fires
A CO₂ fire extinguisher is the go-to choice for electrical fires and some Class B flammable liquid fires. It displaces oxygen, smothering the fire without leaving any residue on delicate equipment.
This makes CO2 fire extinguisher use ideal in server rooms, switchgear areas and environments with computers or control panels.
Class AB and C Fire Extinguisher Applications in Commercial Settings
Not all extinguishers are created equal. A Class AB and C fire extinguisher typically refers to dry powder variants that cover a wide range of risks:
· Class A: Solid materials
· Class B: Flammable liquids
· Class C: Flammable gases
These are common in industrial and high-risk environments where multiple fuel sources exist.
Why Untrained Staff Should Not Use Extinguishers for Flammable Liquids
Even with the best intentions, using the wrong extinguisher on a flammable liquid fire can lead to disaster. Training helps identify:
· The correct extinguisher based on fire class
· Whether it’s safe to attempt fire suppression
· The limits of extinguishers and when to evacuate
Water extinguishers used for Class B fires can spread the flames, worsening the situation.
Fire Blanket Usage and Alternative First Response Measures
Not all fire situations require an extinguisher. Fire blanket usage is particularly effective for small kitchen fires, clothing fires or chip pan incidents. They’re quick to deploy, require no aiming and can safely smother flames.
Training ensures staff understand when to choose a blanket over a canister – and how to deploy both correctly.
Fire Extinguisher Training for Businesses: What to Cover
To ensure safe use, fire extinguisher training should cover:
· Recognising the class of fire and extinguisher
· The PASS for a fire extinguisher method
· Risks of using a fire extinguisher for flammable liquids incorrectly
· Maintenance checks and when to report faults
· Safe use of CO2, foam and water fire extinguishers
Even if extinguishers are not used, familiarity increases confidence and improves emergency response – and helps clarify who is responsible for using a fire extinguisher in the first place.
How Marlowe Fire & Security Supports Fire Safety Compliance
We help businesses of all sizes meet their legal and moral responsibilities with:
· Fire extinguisher training and warden support
· Fire risk assessments tailored to your environment
· Installation and servicing of extinguishers for all fire classes
· Compliance checks for extinguishers, signage and emergency plans
We don’t just supply equipment – we make sure your team knows how and when to use it.
Stay Prepared, Stay Safe
The best response to fire is prevention – and when prevention fails, it’s preparation that saves lives. If you’re unsure whether your team is ready, or whether your current safety provision meets UK standards, we’re here to help.