Whether you’ve had to use a fire extinguisher in a genuine emergency or it’s been discharged accidentally, one thing is clear: it’s no longer ready to protect you.
So, what should you do with it now?
In this blog, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do if you’ve discharged a fire extinguisher—whether in full or in part—and how to stay compliant with UK fire safety regulations.
Step 1: Take It Out of Service Immediately
The moment a fire extinguisher has been discharged—even if it was just a short blast for testing or training—it must be taken out of service.
This is for two main reasons:
- The pressure inside the extinguisher may now be below the safe operating level
- Even partial use could mean it won’t perform correctly in an emergency
Never put a used extinguisher back in its place assuming it’s still good to go.
Step 2: Isolate and Label It
Once removed from service, label the extinguisher as “Discharged – Do Not Use” or something similar. This avoids confusion and makes sure nobody accidentally relies on it.
If it was used in a real fire, you may also need to:
- Take photos for incident reporting
- Log the event in your fire safety logbook
- Inform your insurer or fire risk assessor
Step 3: Arrange for Recharging or Replacement
Depending on the type of extinguisher and how it was used, the next step is either:
- Refilling and re-pressurising (recharging)
- Or a full replacement
Rechargeable extinguishers
Water, foam, powder and CO₂ extinguishers can usually be refilled and recommissioned by a competent technician. This includes pressure testing, replacing any damaged parts, and updating the service label.
Non-refillable extinguishers
Some smaller or budget extinguishers are sealed, single-use types. These must be replaced completely after any use.
Not sure which you have? The service label or manufacturer’s markings will indicate whether it’s refillable or disposable.
Step 4: Have a Competent Person Recommission It
Only a qualified fire extinguisher technician should recharge and recommission an extinguisher.
Under BS 5306-3, this must be:
- Done to British Standard specifications
- Recorded in your fire safety logbook
- Carried out with the right tools, safety equipment and knowledge
Recharging it yourself or leaving it half-full is not only unsafe—it could also breach your legal duties under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
Step 5: Check for Collateral Impact
If a fire extinguisher has been used—even for a small fire—it’s a good idea to review the wider area:
- Was there any fire damage to equipment or wiring?
- Has the discharge created a slip hazard on the floor?
- Do you need to clean powder or foam residue from machinery or furniture?
Cleaning up quickly and properly can help avoid further damage or health risks, especially in kitchens or food-handling areas.
Can I Just Throw It Away?
No. Used or pressurised fire extinguishers should never be thrown in general waste. They:
- May still be pressurised and dangerous
- Can release chemicals or gases if punctured
- Could violate environmental disposal regulations
Always have them collected by a licensed fire extinguisher service company, or return them to the supplier for safe disposal or recycling.
At ESI, we take care of all this as part of our maintenance and servicing agreements.
What If It Was a False Alarm or Accidental Discharge?
Even if it wasn’t a real fire, the extinguisher must still be serviced or replaced. Also consider:
- Was the discharge caused by mishandling or poor mounting?
- Do you need staff training to prevent future misuse?
- Are all fire extinguishers correctly installed and visible?
If you’re unsure, a quick audit by a fire safety professional can help prevent repeat issues.
How ESI Can Help
At ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections, we support businesses and landlords across Farnborough, Camberley, Reading, Guildford, and the wider Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire areas with:
- Fire extinguisher servicing and refilling
- Safe collection and disposal of discharged or expired units
- New extinguisher supply and installation
- Ongoing compliance support
If you’ve discharged a fire extinguisher—don’t wait. Give us a call and we’ll sort it quickly, safely, and affordably. Keeping you protected is what we do best.
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