Portable Fire Extinguisher Readiness and Access
An Extinguisher Cannot Help From Behind an Obstruction
A portable fire extinguisher is an emergency control, not wall decoration. It must be the right type for the anticipated fire, remain in its designated place and be immediately reachable without moving boxes, tools or equipment. A unit that is missing, discharged, damaged or hidden behind stored materials may fail the team at the exact moment it is needed. Keep access clear, check visible condition and follow the site emergency plan—only trained and authorised people should attempt to control an incipient-stage fire, and everyone must preserve a safe escape route.
Controls to confirm
- Keep every extinguisher mounted, identified and readily accessible. Maintain a clear approach and visibility; never park equipment, stack materials or route temporary work in front of it.
- Complete the required visual inspection at the specified interval and before relying on the unit for changed work conditions. Confirm it is in its designated place, appears fully charged and operable, and has no obvious damage, leakage, missing pin, broken seal or obstructed hose.
- Match extinguisher selection and placement to the anticipated fire hazards, and make sure workers understand the site emergency plan—including who is authorised to use extinguishers, when to raise the alarm and evacuate, and the need to keep an escape route behind them.
Today’s action
Walk to the extinguisher nearest today's work. Confirm its route is clear, it is visible and in its designated place, and its condition shows no obvious defect; report and correct any issue through the site's fire-safety process.
Source guidance
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