FAQs Archive • GetTesting

Can you test domestic fire & smoke detectors?

Yes. Domestic fire detection is covered by a different British Standard than the commercial detection systems, BS5839-6:2019 (part 6, 2019 update). The service and maintenance part is quite vague, saying that they should be maintained in line with manufacturers recommendations. Each will vary slightly and you’ll be able to find Read more…

By Archie Wildsbull, 2 years ago

Does it matter what kind of control panel we have?

We’re familiar with all the major manufacturers and their equipment, such as Advanced, Kentec, C-Tec, Fike, Gent & more.

By Archie Wildsbull, 2 years ago

Does the power need to be off to perform an EICR?

Yes. The power would need to be turned off for approximately 30 minutes per circuit & the power turned off to the whole house or flat for about 15 minutes also, for a few final tests at the end.

By Archie Wildsbull, 2 years ago

What are the different colour codes on a fire extinguisher?

BSEN3 is the standard that dictates fire extinguishers should be 95% red with up to 5% of another colour to identify the type of extinguisher. The different colour codes are: Water = Red Dry Powder = Blue Foam = Cream CO2 = Black Wet Chemical = Yellow

By Archie Wildsbull, 2 years ago

Why are there different types of fire extinguisher?

Different types of fires have different characteristics. What they are fueled by significantly alters how they must be extinguished. The different extinguishers are then located in different areas of the building to ensure that the risks of that area are sufficiently covered.

By Archie Wildsbull, 2 years ago

Are any fire extinguishers all purpose?

None can ever be sold as ‘all purpose’ as some specialist materials will require specialist extinguishing equipment, however some extinguishers are ‘multi-purpose’ and can extinguish different types of fires.

By Archie Wildsbull, 2 years ago

What type of fire extinguishers can be used on what type of fires?

This handy graphic shows you exactly what type of fire each extinguisher can be used on. If you’re not sure or if you have specialist risks such as flammable metals, please get in touch for details of our risk assessment & fire extinguisher selection service.

By Archie Wildsbull, 2 years ago

How often should a fire extinguisher be serviced?

At least once per year, with annually being the most common frequency of servicing.

By Archie Wildsbull, 2 years ago

How do you dispose of a fire extinguisher?

Fire extinguishers must be disposed of by a competent person. If they are under pressure they are extremely dangerous and should never be placed in general waste. The contents must be disposed of in different ways depending on what they are. The bodies, once empty and unpressurised, are mostly metal Read more…

By Archie Wildsbull, 2 years ago

Can you refill extinguishers?

Mostly, yes, although it depends on the type. Refilling Dry Powder extinguishers is not straightforward as the valves require cleaning to make sure the power has not contaminated it on discharge. Aerosol-type extinguishers are sealed and cannot be serviced. For some types, it’s cheaper to buy new & recycle the Read more…

By Archie Wildsbull, 2 years ago