Walk into some modern offices, high-end retail shops, or interior-designed spaces, and you might spot a chrome or stainless-steel fire extinguisher. They’re sleek, stylish, and blend in with designer interiors. But the big question is: are they legal under UK fire safety regulations?
The answer? Yes – but only in certain circumstances. Here’s what you need to know.
The Standard for Fire Extinguisher Colours
In the UK, all portable fire extinguishers intended for commercial, workplace, or public use must comply with BS EN 3-5, which is the British/European standard governing:
- Construction
- Labelling
- Colour coding
- Safety features
According to BS EN 3:
- The body of the extinguisher must be red (RAL 3000) for at least 95% of its surface
- A small section (up to 5%) may carry a colour code to identify the extinguishing agent (e.g. blue for powder, cream for foam, etc.)
This red casing is not just for visibility—it ensures uniformity and quick recognition in an emergency. That’s why, in most buildings, chrome extinguishers are not considered compliant for primary protection.
So When Is a Chrome Extinguisher Legal?
Chrome or stainless steel extinguishers can be legally sold and used in the UK, but with important limitations:
- They do not meet BS EN 3, so they are not suitable for use in commercial premises where compliance is mandatory
- They may be used in domestic settings, or where aesthetics are prioritised alongside compliant extinguishers
- In some listed buildings or heritage sites, chrome extinguishers may be allowed with the agreement of the fire authority or conservation officer
In short, they’re legal to sell and own, but not legal as a like-for-like replacement for a red BS EN 3-certified extinguisher in most commercial environments.
Are Chrome Extinguishers Certified?
Some manufacturers offer chrome or stainless-steel extinguishers that:
- Are manufactured to the same safety standard as red extinguishers
- Carry CE or UKCA markings
- Have full functionality and reliability
However, the absence of BS EN 3-compliant red colouring means they are not technically compliant for mandatory installations under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO).
This means using them could:
- Lead to non-compliance during a fire risk assessment
- Invalidate your insurance
- Put you at risk in the event of a fire authority inspection
What About Fire Safety Signage?
Another consideration with chrome extinguishers is visibility and signage. Under BS 5306-8, extinguishers must be:
- Clearly visible
- Marked with appropriate fire extinguisher signage
- Easy to identify at a distance or through smoke
Chrome finishes can reflect surroundings, making them harder to spot, especially in dim light or busy environments. This is another reason they’re not recommended for commercial spaces.
The Safer Option: Designer-Friendly Compliance
If you’re managing a space where appearance matters—like a boutique, hotel, or high-end office—there are alternative solutions that maintain compliance:
- Decorative covers or cabinets that match the interior
- Discreet mounting and signage
- Colour-coordinated floor stands that look smart without compromising visibility
At ESI, we regularly help clients balance aesthetics with legal requirements—and we’ll never compromise your fire safety in the process.
How ESI Can Help
At ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections, we work with businesses and landlords across Farnborough, Camberley, Reading, Guildford, and throughout Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire.
We can:
- Review your existing fire extinguisher setup
- Advise on compliance with BS EN 3 and BS 5306-8
- Supply stylish but compliant fire protection options
- Carry out installation and annual servicing
Thinking of switching to chrome extinguishers? Talk to us first. We’ll make sure your fire protection looks good—but also keeps you safe, legal, and fully insured.
