Frequently
Asked
Questions

We offer a comprehensive range of fire safety services, including fire extinguisher servicing & sales, fire risk assessments, fire alarm and emergency lighting maintenance, training and fire hydrant servicing.

We are based in Tameside, Greater Manchester, and provide services across the North West.

No, you don’t need a contract to access our services. We offer both one-off services and regular maintenance options, giving you flexibility based on your business needs.

Fire extinguishers should be serviced annually by a qualified technician to ensure they comply with British Standards (BS 5306-3). All our fire extinguishers are qualified, having successfully undertaken the BAFE exam and training.

Yes, we supply high-quality fire extinguishers that meet UK regulations. We can also provide installation and commissioning.

Yes, different types of extinguishers are designed for different fire classes (e.g., water for Class A fires, CO2 for electrical fires). We can advise you on the correct extinguishers during a free no-obligation site survey.

Fire extinguishers are classified based on the types of fires they can extinguish. Here’s a breakdown: Class A: For fires involving combustible materials such as wood, paper, and textiles. (Extinguisher type: Water, Foam, Dry Powder) Class B: For fires involving flammable liquids such as petrol, oils, and solvents. (Extinguisher type: Foam, CO₂, Dry Powder) Class C: For fires involving flammable gases such as propane, butane, and methane. (Extinguisher type: Dry Powder) Class D: For fires involving combustible metals such as magnesium and aluminium. (Extinguisher type: Specialist Powder) Class F: For fires involving cooking oils and fats, commonly found in commercial kitchens. (Extinguisher type: Wet Chemical) Electrical Fires: Not officially a class but important to note. CO₂ and Dry Powder extinguishers are commonly used for fires involving live electrical equipment. Important Note About Dry Powder Extinguishers: While dry powder extinguishers are highly effective on Class A, B, C, and electrical fires, they are generally not recommended for indoor use in enclosed spaces. This is because the powder can reduce visibility, cause breathing issues, and leave significant residue, making cleanup challenging. They are best suited for ventilated areas or larger industrial spaces where safety risks can be managed. Using the correct extinguisher for the specific type of fire is crucial for safety. If you're unsure about the types of extinguishers your premises need, we can conduct a site assessment to provide expert advice and ensure you're equipped with the most suitable fire protection.

Recent changes in fire safety regulations have introduced stricter guidelines for the use of foam fire extinguishers due to environmental concerns. The key points include: PFAS Restrictions: Many traditional foam extinguishers contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which are harmful to the environment. New regulations aim to phase out extinguishers with these substances. Eco-Friendly Alternatives: Modern foam extinguishers now use fluorine-free formulations that are safer for the environment while still being effective against Class A and B fires. Disposal and Replacement: Businesses must ensure old foam extinguishers containing PFAS are disposed of safely and replaced with compliant alternatives by the recommended deadlines. At Abbott Fire Protection, we supply and service foam extinguishers that meet the latest environmental and regulatory standards. We can also advise on the replacement of outdated extinguishers to help you stay compliant.

Fire alarm systems require a weekly user test and a full service by a competent technician every six months, as per BS 5839.

Our emergency lighting maintenance service includes visual inspections, functional tests, battery checks, and repairs to ensure compliance with BS 5266.

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all businesses must have a fire risk assessment to identify hazards and ensure that fire safety measures are in place.

Fire risk assessments should be reviewed annually or when there are significant changes to your premises, processes, or staff.

We offer a range of services to help you maintain compliance, from annual servicing and inspections to expert advice on fire safety procedures.

Yes, after every service or risk assessment, you will receive the necessary documentation and certificates to demonstrate compliance with fire safety regulations.

Yes, for some of our contracted service agreements we provide emergency call-out services for urgent fire safety issues, such as faulty fire alarms, extinguishers, or emergency lighting.

Our response times depend on location, but we aim to be on-site as quickly as possible, particularly for critical issues.