Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist
A free monthly fire extinguisher inspection checklist to BS 5306 — check pressure, seals, location, and signage, and record it in the fire log book.
Monthly (visual inspection); annual service by a competent technician
The responsible person or a competent member of staff (monthly); a competent technician (annual service)
BS 5306-3 / BS 5306-8
A fire extinguisher inspection is the routine visual check that confirms each portable extinguisher is in place, accessible, correctly pressurised, and ready to use. Under BS 5306-3, the responsible person carries out a monthly visual check, and a competent technician carries out an annual basic service. This checklist covers the monthly visual inspection — a quick but important check that catches discharged, tampered, or missing extinguishers before they're needed.
Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist: what to check
Location
Extinguisher is in its designated position and not obstructed
Pressure gauge
Needle reads in the green operating band (where fitted)
Safety pin & tamper seal
Both present and intact — no sign of discharge or tampering
Body condition
No dents, corrosion, or damage to the cylinder
Hose & horn
Undamaged and free of blockage
Service label
Present and the next service date is not overdue
Signage
Location sign present, correct, and visible
Type suitability
Extinguisher type is appropriate for the risk in the area
Mounting
Bracket or stand secure and at the correct height
Record
Monthly check recorded in the fire log book
Download printable checklist templates from the templates library, or build a custom one with the checklist generator.
Common inspection failures
- Extinguisher moved from its designated location or blocked by furniture
- Pressure gauge reading low or in the red (discharged or leaking)
- Missing safety pin or broken tamper seal
- Service overdue because the annual visit was missed
- Wrong extinguisher type for the risk (e.g. water near electrical equipment)
- Location signage missing or obscured
Related inspection checklists
Frequently asked questions
Keep inspection records searchable
Once inspections are running, the records pile up. PM Assist makes your inspection records, O&M manuals, and certificates instantly searchable — so you can produce evidence on demand.