Office Fire Extinguishers

Every workplace needs proper fire protection, and your office is no exception. Whether you're running a small business from a converted flat or managing a sprawling corporate headquarters, having the proper fire extinguishers can mean the difference between a minor incident and a devastating blaze. It’s also a legal requirement! Office environments present unique fire risks. You've got electrical equipment humming away all day, paper documents stacked high, and often a kitchen area where staff grab their morning coffee. Each of these creates different fire hazards that need specific types of extinguishers to tackle them effectively.

Read more about office fire extinguishers...

Different types of fire extinguishers for offices

Most offices are best protected with water mist extinguishers, as they can tackle both common Class A fires (such as paper, wood, and fabrics) and electrical fires, covering the main risks found in office environments. While many workplaces still use a combination of CO2 and water extinguishers, CO2 is really only necessary where there are large volumes of valuable electrical equipment, such as in server rooms.

For office kitchens or canteens, the right protection depends on the cooking equipment in use. A wet chemical extinguisher is only required if there is a deep fat fryer or hob, as it is specifically designed to deal with cooking oil fires. In most other cases, a water mist extinguisher combined with a fire blanket will provide sufficient coverage for typical kitchen risks.

How many fire extinguishers does an office need?

The number depends on the size and layout of your office. As a general rule, you need enough coverage so that no one has to travel more than 30 metres to reach an extinguisher. For most small offices, two or three strategically placed fire extinguishers will suffice. Larger offices may require one per floor, plus additional units near high-risk areas such as server rooms or kitchens.

Where should office fire extinguishers be placed?

Position extinguishers near exit routes so people can grab them on their way out, not on their way in. Mount them at a height where everyone can easily reach them. Keep them visible and accessible, never tucked away behind furniture or in storage cupboards.

CO2 fire extinguishers are ideally located near server rooms and areas with a large volume of electrical equipment. Place water-based extinguishers in general office areas where paper and furniture fires are likely to start. If you have a kitchen with a deep fat fryer or hob, place a wet chemical extinguisher right where cooking occurs.

What size fire extinguisher is best suited for an office?

For most office applications, 6ltr water mist extinguishers are usually sufficient for all office risks. They're powerful enough to tackle typical office fires but light enough for most people to handle confidently.

Do offices need special fire extinguisher servicing?

Yes, all steel fire extinguishers need annual servicing to ensure they'll work when you need them most. This isn't just good practice, it's a legal requirement for most workplaces. During annual servicing, technicians check the pressure, inspect the extinguisher body for damage, and ensure all components are working correctly.

However, P50 Service-Free extinguishers are an exception. They don’t require annual professional servicing, only simple visual checks, making them a lower-maintenance and more cost-effective option.

Keep records of all servicing and inspections. Many insurance companies require proof of proper maintenance, and fire safety officers will want to see these records during inspections.

Don't leave your office fire safety to chance. Browse our comprehensive range of office-suitable fire extinguishers and get the protection your workplace deserves. Our experts can help you select the ideal combination of extinguishers tailored to your specific office layout and risks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can modern office fire extinguishers replace both water and CO2 types?

Yes, newer water mist extinguishers can tackle both Class A fires and electrical equipment up to 1000V when used from a distance of more than 1 metre. This means you can often replace your traditional water and CO2 combination with a single extinguisher type, simplifying your office fire safety setup.

What makes service-free fire extinguishers different for offices?

Service-free extinguishers, such as the P50 Extinguisher models, don't require annual professional servicing, making them ideal for smaller offices or businesses that want to reduce ongoing maintenance costs. They're designed with extended-life technology that maintains reliability without regular professional checks.

Are refurbished fire extinguishers suitable for use in an office?

Refurbished CO2 extinguishers offer an economical solution for offices. These are high-quality UK reworked units that meet safety standards, but cost significantly less than new models, making them ideal for budget-conscious businesses that still require proper fire protection.

Why do server rooms need specific fire extinguisher types?

Server rooms and high-voltage areas need CO2 extinguishers because they don't conduct electricity and won't damage sensitive electronic equipment. The 2kg CO2 models are particularly popular as they're lightweight and easy to manoeuvre in cramped server room spaces. Understanding fire extinguisher types for live electrical equipment is crucial for making the right choice.

Can water mist extinguishers be used on office electrical equipment?

Yes, water mist extinguishers using microscopic water particles are safe for use on live electrical equipment up to 1000V, provided a distance of more than 1 metre is maintained. This makes them incredibly versatile for modern offices filled with computers, printers, and other electrical devices. Browse our complete range of fire extinguishers for electrical equipment to find the perfect solution for your workspace.

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6ltr Water Fire Extinguisher - UltraFire

This 6 litre water fire extinguisher is ideal for fighting class A fires without using any other chemicals.

Extinguisher rating: 13A
35,000 Volt dielectric conductvity test: PASSED
5 year warranty
CE marked, Kitemarked to BS EN3

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Now: £37.19 inc VAT

£30.99 ex VAT

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9ltr Water Fire Extinguisher - UltraFire

The most common extinguisher on the market, the 9 litre water is an extinguisher that is ideal for fighting class A fires without using any chemicals.

Extinguisher Rating 21A
5 Year Warranty
Kitemarked to BS EN3
CE marked and MED approved

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Now: £48.95 inc VAT

£40.79 ex VAT

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Free Delivery

P50 Service-Free 6ltr Water Mist Fire Extinguisher

Replace your standard water and CO2 combination fire points with a single unit, suitable for all common fires.

Extinguisher Rating: 13A
Safe for use on live electrical equipment up to 1000V
Kitemarked by BSI to BS EN3
Manufactured in the UK
Price includes site survey, install and commissioning

From: £181.82 inc VAT

£151.52 ex VAT

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Refurbished 2kg CO2 Fire Extinguisher

Offering economical CO2 fire extinguisher solutions, these refurbished extinguishers are good quality, UK reworked units.

Refurbished to high standards
Rating 34B and electrical
1 Year Warranty
Available with or without hose and horn

From: £28.26 inc VAT

£23.55 ex VAT

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2kg CO2 Fire Extinguisher - UltraFire

Perfect for installation in server rooms & areas with high voltage, 2kg CO2's are light & easy to move & commonly partnered up with a foam or water extinguisher.

Extinguisher Rating: 34B and electrical
10 Year Warranty
Kitemarked to BS EN3 and CE marked

From: £42.74 inc VAT

£35.62 ex VAT

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Polished Aluminium 2kg CO2 Fire Extinguisher

Highly polished aluminium, these CO2 fire extinguishers suit hotel lobbies, entrance halls and function rooms.

Polished Aluminium 2kg CO2 Extinguisher
Rating 34B and electrical
Lloyd's registered
CE marked

From: £86.86 inc VAT

£72.38 ex VAT

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Stainless Steel 6ltr Water Fire Extinguisher - Contempo

The Contempo Stainless Steel 6ltr Water Fire Extinguisher features a 13A fire rating and is perfect for restaurants, hotels and other prestigious venues where a more premium finish is desired.

Extinguisher Rating: 13A
5 Year Warranty
Highly polished and ideal for modern interiors
CE Marked with a corrosion resistant finish

£84.95 inc VAT

£70.79 ex VAT

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P50 Service-Free 2ltr Water Mist Fire Extinguisher

Capable of tackling all common fires, these extinguishers are suitable for all domestic premises and most businesses.

Extinguisher Rating: 8A, 5F
Kitemarked by BSI to BS EN3
Safe for use on live electrical equipment up to 1000V
Manufactured in the UK
Optional install and commissioning

From: £64.97 inc VAT

£54.14 ex VAT

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3ltr Water Mist Fire Extinguisher - UltraFire

Utilising the latest in water mist technology, the 3l water mist is suitable for private homes as well as business environments.

Effective on A, B, C, and F type fires
Safe on live electrical equipment up to 1000V
100% non-harmful and 100% clean agent
Kitemarked and CE marked

£69.23 inc VAT

£57.69 ex VAT

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6ltr Water Mist Fire Extinguisher - UltraFire

An innovation in fire fighting equipment, this water mist extinguisher fights a multitude of fires whilst maintaining the user's safety using microscopic water mist particles.

Effective on A, B, and C type fires
Safe on live electrical equipment up to 1000V
100% non-harmful and 100% clean agent
Kitemarked and CE marked

£82.79 inc VAT

£68.99 ex VAT

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9ltr Water Extinguisher, 2kg CO2 Fire Extinguisher & Double Stand - UltraFire Special Offer

With two high quality fire extinguishers plus double stand, this convenient bundle is popular in offices, shops, schools, warehouses, and more.

FREE next working day delivery
Water rating 21A, CO2 rating 34B + Electrically safe
Sturdy & bright double red floor stand
For fires on solid materials (class A) and flammable liquids (class B)

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Now: £122.03 inc VAT

£101.69 ex VAT

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6ltr Water Mist Fire Extinguisher - Act Fire

Tackle all common fires with the 6ltr water mist extinguisher from Act Fire. Suitable for use on live electrical equipment up to 1000V, and Class A fire types.

Extinguisher Rating: 21A, Dielectric
Warranty: Exclusive Safelincs 5 year warranty
Certified to BS EN3, CE marked, UKCA marked, and MED approved
Powerful fire fighting capabilities with zero harmful chemical additives

£56.15 inc VAT

£46.79 ex VAT

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9ltr Water Fire Extinguisher - Britannia

Designed to fight fires fuelled by wood, paper, furniture etc. and usually paired with a CO2 fire extinguisher to cover office spaces and foyers etc.

Extinguisher rating: 21A
10 year warranty - Exclusive to Safelincs
Kitemarked to BS EN 3: 1996 and CE marked
UK Manufactured

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Stainless Steel 9ltr Water Fire Extinguisher

A popular extinguisher in hotels and esteemed buildings, this 9 lite water extinguisher provides fire fighting whilst being sympathetic to décor.

Highly polished surface finish & corrosion resistant
Rating 21A
Lloyd's Registered
CE marked

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Home Working Fire Safety Kit - Safelincs

Fire blanket included for emergency escape
Supplied with a portable powder extinguisher and emergency light
St John Ambulance first aid kit provides the essentials for minor injuries
Also supplied with an optical smoke alarm and CO alarm
Protect your home office / home working environment

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6ltr Foam & 2kg CO2 Fire Extinguisher Special Offer

One of the most popular extinguisher combinations, foam and CO2 fire extinguishers are often seen paired in offices, schools, shops, etc. Suitable for Class A & Class B (Foam) and Class B & Electrical (CO2) fires.

FREE next working day delivery
Foam extinguisher rating: 21A, 144B, Dielectrical
CO2 extinguisher rating: 34B
Ideal for offices, schools, shops, etc.