Yes. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the ‘responsible person’ must ensure that fire-fighting equipment is:

• Easy to locate
• Clearly identified
• Accompanied by instructions for safe use

This is reinforced by guidance under BS 5306-8, the British Standard for the selection and positioning of portable fire extinguishers.

Failing to provide adequate signage could leave you non-compliant in a fire risk assessment or even legally liable in the event of an emergency.

What Should Fire Extinguisher Signs Include?

Every fire extinguisher in your premises should have a sign mounted directly above it (or as close as possible), which includes:

1. 🔤 The Type of Extinguisher

For example:

• Water
• Foam
• CO₂
• Dry Powder
• Wet Chemical

This helps users quickly identify the extinguisher—even if the equipment itself is moved or obscured.

2. 📋 The Classes of Fire It Can Be Used On

Most signs include icons or text showing which fire types are suitable, such as:

• Class A (solid materials like paper, wood)
• Class B (flammable liquids)
• Class C (flammable gases)
• Electrical fires
• Class F (cooking oils and fats)

This prevents the wrong extinguisher being used, which could make a fire worse.

3. ⚠️ Any Warnings or Restrictions

For example, “Do not use on live electrical equipment” for water extinguishers, or “Not for use in enclosed spaces” for powder extinguishers.

Where Should the Signs Be Placed?

Signs should be:

• Positioned directly above the extinguisher on a wall or partition
• Mounted at approximately 1.5m from floor level for good visibility
• Not blocked or obscured by furniture or equipment
• Consistent throughout the building

In larger buildings, it’s also helpful to install directional signage that shows where the nearest extinguishers are located (similar to fire exit signage).

Colour and Design Standards

Fire extinguisher signs in the UK typically follow ISO 7010 standards for safety symbols. They are usually:

• White symbols and text on a red background
• Made from durable plastic or photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) materials
• Clear, simple, and easy to understand at a glance

Some workplaces choose combined signs that include extinguisher ID and fire point details together for convenience.

Do You Need Signs for Extinguishers in Cabinets or Cupboards?

Yes. If an extinguisher is kept inside a cabinet, box, or cupboard, there must be external signage showing:

• That a fire extinguisher is inside
• What type it is
• Any relevant warnings

This ensures that users aren’t left searching for equipment in an emergency.

What About Holiday Lets or HMOs?

If you’re a landlord for an HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) or you run a holiday let, extinguisher signage is strongly recommended, even in small properties.

Even if not strictly required by law in every domestic setting, signage improves clarity for guests and residents—particularly if they’re unfamiliar with the building.

If fire-fighting equipment is provided, it must be clearly labelled and positioned properly—or it could do more harm than good.

Final Thoughts

So, what are the fire extinguisher signage requirements?

✅ Every extinguisher must have a clear, compliant sign
✅ Signs should show the extinguisher type, usage classes, and any warnings
✅ Placement should be at eye level, visible, and consistent
✅ Cabinets and cupboards must also be clearly labelled
✅ Compliance with BS 5306-8 and ISO 7010 is essential

At ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections, we help businesses, landlords, and property managers across Farnborough, Camberley, Reading, Guildford, and the wider Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire area stay fully compliant.

Need help checking your fire extinguisher signage—or want us to install the right ones for you?

📞 Contact ESI today for expert advice and fire safety support.

Looking for a full Fire Point signage pack for your site? Just ask—we’ll be happy to help!