Extinguishers left on floor

[Linda]

There is an on going problem within the company I work for where somebody is systematically removing a wall mounted fire extinguisher and leaving it on the floor, sometimes in a place where it becomes a trip hazard, apart from the obvious risks is this breaking any fire regulations?

[Tom Sutton]

It could be argued that they are in breach of article 23 (1) of The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 but whether the fire and rescue service would prosecute would be in debate. However the bluff and persuasion act might work produce a notice warning employees they are in breach of the RR(FS)O article 23 and if caught will be prosecuted.

[AnthonyB]

There is no explicit requirement to wall or stand mount extinguishers (hence why M&S have always had theirs on the floor), it just has to be easily accessible.

Why are they removing it? Perhaps to prop open a fire door while they move things through it?

 

[Tom Sutton]

Hi AB i do not think it is the siting of extinguisher that concerns Linda, it is the removing them from designated locations and not returning them, which could be a safety matter.

[AnthonyB]

If they are moved such they are not readily available then it would indeed be an issue, staff would naturally gravitate to the signed fire point & if the extinguisher isn't there it would not be good!

[Linda]

Yes my concern is that it is systematically being removed from its wall bracket and being left in random places in the area, this morning it was very close to the door where anyone going through the door would have walked into it if they were not looking down, door wedges are provided if there is a need to prop the door open but this is rare.