What Qualifications Do I Need to Service Fire Extinguishers?

It’s one of the most common questions from people looking to break into the fire safety industry, or from business owners wondering if they can have someone in-house handle their own fire extinguisher servicing:

“What qualifications do I need to service fire extinguishers?”

The short answer?

You need to be a competent person—and that means more than just confidence.

In the eyes of the law, competence involves having the right training, knowledge, and experience to carry out the work safely and effectively.

Let’s break down what this really means in practice—and what training is recognised across the UK.

Why Competence Matters

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all fire safety equipment—including fire extinguishers—must be:

“…maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.”

But here’s the key part:

This maintenance must be carried out by a competent person.

So what is a “competent person” under UK fire law?

In simple terms, a competent person is someone who has:

• The right training and qualifications
• Practical experience in servicing fire extinguishers
• An understanding of the relevant British Standards (namely BS 5306)

This is essential because poor maintenance—or incorrect servicing—can mean your fire extinguishers don’t work when they’re needed most. That can lead to serious consequences, from failed inspections to invalid insurance or even prosecution in the event of an incident.

Which Qualifications Are Recognised?

To be considered competent to service portable fire extinguishers in the UK, you should complete a formal training course provided by a recognised trade body or awarding organisation.

The most widely accepted qualifications and courses come from:

🔴 BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment)

BAFE is the leading third-party certification body for fire protection services in the UK.

• They don’t provide training directly but set the standard for companies and individuals who wish to be third-party certified for fire extinguisher maintenance.
• If you want your business to be BAFE SP101 certified, your technicians will need approved qualifications and evidence of competence.

🔴 FIA (Fire Industry Association)

The FIA is one of the largest fire safety trade associations in the UK. Their training is well respected throughout the industry.

• FIA Level 3 Award in Portable Fire Extinguisher Maintenance is a recognised qualification.
• The course covers the theory and practical skills required to inspect, service, and maintain extinguishers in line with BS 5306-3 and BS 5306-8.
• It’s suitable for both new entrants and those looking to update or formalise their skills.

🔴 IFEDA (Independent Fire Engineering and Distributors Association)

IFEDA also offers comprehensive extinguisher servicing training courses.

• Their training is tailored for those working in the industry, with an emphasis on practical, real-world skills.
• Courses align with British Standards and industry expectations, and are widely accepted by insurers, clients, and certification bodies.

🔴 Other Recognised Training Providers

There are a number of other reputable organisations and colleges offering extinguisher servicing qualifications, often based on BS 5306. Just make sure the course:

• Is based on current UK standards
• Has clear learning outcomes and assessments
• Is accepted by insurers, fire authorities, or relevant third-party certification schemes

What About In-House Staff?

We’re sometimes asked if an employee can be trained to service extinguishers in-house. The answer is: yes, but only if they are properly trained and competent.

However, unless they’ve taken one of the recognised industry qualifications and have hands-on experience, they are unlikely to meet the legal standard of “competence.”

It’s also worth noting that:

• DIY servicing without proper training can invalidate insurance
• Many insurers, landlords, and public bodies require servicing to be done by third-party certified providers
• Using an unqualified person may leave you legally exposed if something goes wrong

How ESI Ensures Competence

At ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections, all of our fire extinguisher servicing is carried out by fully trained, qualified, and insured technicians who understand the legal and practical responsibilities involved.

We service extinguishers for landlords, commercial premises, offices, retail shops, and more across Farnborough, Camberley, Reading, Guildford, and the wider Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire area.

Whether it’s a basic annual service or guidance on replacements and installation, we follow best practices and current standards—so you can be confident in your compliance.

Final Thoughts

If you want to service fire extinguishers legally and safely, you need more than a toolkit—you need the right qualifications and training.

✅ British Standards (like BS 5306-3) are clear about what’s required
✅ Competence is the legal benchmark
✅ Courses from the FIA, IFEDA, and other recognised providers meet industry standards
✅ Businesses should always use trained professionals to avoid risk and liability

Need your extinguishers serviced by qualified, competent professionals?

📞 Contact ESI today—we’ll make sure your fire safety equipment is compliant, properly maintained, and fully documented.