Fire Extinguishers – Know The Laws of Your Province

Understanding the laws governing fire extinguishers in the workplace is crucial for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace. Employers are required to adhere to specific regulations that outline the types of fire extinguishers needed, their proper placement, routine maintenance, and the training of employees in their use. These laws not only aim to protect employees and visitors from the dangers of fire but also ensure that businesses meet legal obligations and avoid potential liabilities.

Employers in Alberta must adhere to Fire Extinguisher safety regulations under the Fire Code Interpretation Article (2.1.5.1, 3.3.2.10, 6.2.1.1., 2.2.3.2., 2.1.2.7., 2.2.4.2), which pertains to Portable Fire Extinguishers.

Fire Extinguishers – Section 2.2.3.2.
All portable fire extinguishers in Alberta must be subject to the following:

1) Inspection. Fire extinguishers shall be inspected monthly by the owner, by an employee designated by the owner, or by a designated representative (i.e. commercial company).
2) Maintenance. All fire extinguishers shall be maintained at intervals no more than one year apart or when an inspection indicates a fire extinguisher is in need of maintenance.
3) Recharging. Every 6 years, stored pressure fire extinguishers that require a 12-year hydrostatic test shall be emptied and subjected to the applicable internal examination procedures as detailed in the manufacturer’s service manual.
4) Hydrostatic Testing. Any extinguishers that show evidence of corrosion or mechanical damage shall be hydrostatically tested. However, non-refillable disposable containers and pump tanks do not require hydrostatic tests.
5) Refurbishing. The only companies allowed to refurbish portable fire extinguishers are those who have specific permission to do so from Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) and the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).
6) Placement of Fire Extinguisher
The NFC(AE) does not regulate the installation of portable fire extinguishers on vehicles unless these vehicles are:

a. tank vehicles,
b. a motor vehicle operating in an outdoor storage area, as defined by the NFC(AE), or
c. a vehicle utilized for the compliance of Variances at remote/unmanned facilities.

7) Listed and Labelled
All portable fire extinguishers for sale, use, and servicing in Alberta will comply with ALL of the following:

a. Labels will have metric measures and may have imperial equivalents.
b. Labels will be bilingual in English/French and may represent additional languages.
c. Labels will indicate which CAN/ULC Standard the portable extinguisher is in conformance with (e.g. CAN/ULC S504).
d. Extinguishers will exhibit the mark of a Certification Body as being in conformance with one of the referenced National Standards (CAN/ULC). This mark will most typically be that of ULC.

For More Information see:

  •  Selection and Installation Section 2.1.5.1
  • Portable Extinguishers Section 2.2.4.2
  • Fire Protection Equipment Section 2.1.2.7
  • Inspection, Testing, Maintenance Section 6.2.1.1
  • Records Section 6.1.1.5

Further details on regulations under the Fire Code Interpretation can be found at Alberta.ca.

British Columbia Fire Code Mandates

  1. Portable fire extinguishers be provided and installed in accordance with the BC Fire Code.
  2. Fire extinguishers must be installed in all buildings except dwelling units.
  3. Fire extinguishers must be installed per NFPA 10.
  4. Fire extinguishers must be located so that the maximum travel distance shall not exceed 75 ft.
  5. The intention of the portable extinguishers is to assist in evacuation. As such, in the context of The Fire Code, the portions of the building that form the evacuation route from the dwelling units are the public corridors that lead to the exits. Therefore, the public corridors are the only portion of the building on typical residential floors that need to be provided with portable fire extinguishers and the 75 ft travel distance to the nearest fire extinguisher can be measured from the residential suite entry door.

Employers in British Columbia have specific responsibilities regarding fire extinguishers, which are part of workplace safety requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (OHSR). Section 23.10 pertains to Fire Extinguishers and Section 2.1 of Part 2 — Building and Occupant Fire Safety.

Fire Extinguishers

1. Non-freezing fire extinguishers, other firefighting equipment, and firefighting personnel must be provided as required by subsections (2), (3), and (4) and Table 23-1.

2. The minimum requirements for a twin agent unit are:

(a) 1 100 litres (250 imp gal) pre-mixed ATC foam solution at 6%,
(b) 680 kg (1 500 lbs) potassium bicarbonate dry chemical system,
(c) 30 m (100 ft) discharge hose, and
(d) two firefighting personnel.

3. The minimum requirements for a continuous foam unit are:

(a) 475 litres (100 imp gal) ATC foam concentrate,
(b) 680 kg (1,500 lbs) potassium bicarbonate dry chemical system,
(c) 1 900 litres (400 imp gal) per minute centrifugal certified fire pump with one 65 mm (2.5 in) discharge port, two 38 mm (1.5 in) discharge ports, and one 125 mm (5 in) suction port, and
(d) two firefighting personnel.

4. Firefighting equipment must meet the requirements of NFPA 10, Portable Fire Extinguishers, 1990 Edition. Section 23.10

For more information, see:

  • Portable Extinguishers Section 2.1.5.
  • Selection and Installation Section 2.1.5.1.

Further details on the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation can be found at boaBC.org and BClaws.gov.bc.ca.

In Manitoba, local municipal councils are responsible for following guidelines as they relate to fire extinguisher programs.

Location

  1. Portable extinguishers shall be located in or adjacent to corridors or aisles that provide access to exits.
  2. Portable extinguishers in proximity to a fire hazard shall be located so as to be accessible without exposing the operator to undue risk.
  3. Portable fire extinguishers shall be available in all community vehicles.
  4. Portable fire extinguishers must be available at all job sites.
  5. Signs should be posted advising of the fire extinguisher location

Sale Of Certain Fire Extinguishers Prohibited

No person shall sell, offer for sale, purchase, use, or have in his possession in the province any portable fire extinguishers, unless the design and construction thereof has been approved as prescribed in the regulations and it is marked or identified as prescribed in the regulations.

Employers in Manitoba have specific obligations regarding fire extinguishers under workplace safety regulations, outlined by the Manitoba Fire Code and Section 2.15.1.6. – 6.2.1.2.

Fire Extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers must be installed in each floor area and shall comply with 2.1.5.1.(2) to (6).

Certification of Servicing Agencies and Personnel

1) Service agencies servicing, recharging, or carrying out repair or overhaul of portable fire extinguishers for fee or commercial gain must be certified:

a) in conformance with CAN/ULC – S532, “Standard for the Regulation of the Servicing of Portable Fire Extinguishers” by a testing agency accredited by the Standards Council of Canada, and

b) by the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Directorate, Transport Canada, where high pressure hydrostatic testing is necessary.

2) Service personnel who perform maintenance, service, or testing of portable fire extinguishers shall be trained and certified in accordance with NFPA 10:

a) by a service agency or manufacturer of portable fire extinguishers; or

b) by successfully completing any other training, program, or course accepted by the Fire Commissioner. Section 6.2.1.2.

Further details on the Manitoba Fire Code, M.R. 155/2011 can be found at web2.gov.MB.ca.

Employers have obligations regarding fire extinguishers in the workplace to ensure the safety of their employees and comply with local and national regulations.

  1. Provision of Fire Extinguishers: Employers must ensure that an adequate number of appropriate fire extinguishers are provided and readily accessible in the workplace.
  2. Proper Maintenance: Fire extinguishers must be regularly inspected, maintained, and tested according to the manufacturer’s instructions and local fire codes.
  3. Training for Employees: Employers are responsible for providing training to employees on the proper use of fire extinguishers.
  4. Clear Signage and Accessibility: Fire extinguishers must be clearly marked with appropriate signage and must be easily accessible. Employers must ensure that fire extinguishers are not obstructed or blocked by any objects.
  5. Compliance with Local Fire Codes: Employers must comply with the New Brunswick Fire Prevention Act and related regulations.
  6. Regular Inspections: Employers must ensure that fire extinguishers undergo regular inspections, typically on a monthly and annual basis.
  7. Replacement and Servicing: Any fire extinguishers that are found to be damaged, expired, or otherwise non-functional must be promptly replaced or serviced by a qualified professional.
  8. An employer shall ensure that suitable fire extinguishers are accessible at all times in a laboratory where flammable substances are used or stored.

Employers in New Brunswick have specific responsibilities regarding fire extinguishers under the NEW BRUNSWICK REGULATION 82-239 under the Fire Prevention Act Sections 3(2) to 4(2), which pertain to Fire Extinguisher Servicing Regulations.

These regulations refer to a person:

(a) who manufactures portable fire extinguishers or automatic fire-extinguishing systems and who fills or charges those extinguishers prior to a sale, or

(b) who is employed by a fire department and who is qualified to service the portable fire extinguishers owned by that fire department is exempt from the requirements of subsection (1) to procure a license while servicing portable fire extinguishers or automatic fire-extinguishing systems under the circumstances described in paragraph (a) or (b). Section 3(2).

Subject to subsections (2) and (3) and sections 5 and 6, the fire marshal may issue or re-new a fire extinguisher servicing license. Section 4(1).

No person may be a candidate for a fire extinguisher servicing license unless they

(a) has completed and filed with the fire marshal an application on the form provided for this purpose;

(b) has successfully completed an oral or written examination which has been compiled by the Department of Justice and Public Safety;

(c) proves to the satisfaction of the fire marshal that he has practical experience in the servicing of portable fire extinguishers or automatic fire extinguishing systems and has adequate knowledge of the standards;

(d) proves to the satisfaction of the fire marshal that the facilities to be used for servicing portable fire extinguishers and automatic fire extinguishing systems are adequate; and

(e) has paid the prescribed fee. Section 4(2).

Further details on the NEW BRUNSWICK REGULATION 82-239 can be found at Laws.GNB.ca.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, employers have obligations concerning fire extinguishers to ensure workplace safety and compliance with local regulations.

  1. Provision and Placement of Fire Extinguishers: Employers must provide an adequate number of fire extinguishers appropriate to the specific fire hazards present in the workplace.
  2. Maintenance and Inspection: Fire extinguishers must be maintained in good working order. Inspections are typically required on a monthly and annual basis.
  3. Employee Training: Employers are responsible for training employees. Training should cover how to identify the correct type of extinguisher for different types of fires, as well as how to operate the extinguisher safely.
  4. Clear Signage and Accessibility: Fire extinguishers must be clearly marked with proper signage indicating their location. Employers must ensure that extinguishers are easily accessible and not obstructed by any objects.
  5. Compliance with Fire Safety Codes: Employers must adhere to the fire safety codes as outlined in the Newfoundland and Labrador Fire Prevention Act and related regulations.
  6. Record Keeping: Employers must keep detailed records of all inspections, maintenance, and training.
  7. Replacement and Servicing: Fire extinguishers that are found to be defective, expired, or otherwise not in working order must be replaced or serviced immediately.
  8. Emergency Preparedness: Employers should integrate the use of fire extinguishers into their overall emergency preparedness plan, ensuring that all employees know the procedures to follow in case of a fire, including the use of extinguishers.

Employers in Newfoundland and Labrador have specific responsibilities regarding fire extinguishers under the Fire Protection Services Act. Section 9. (1) to 11. (4) pertain to PART III FIRE EXTINGUISHERS AND FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS.

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS AND FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS

Fire extinguishers

(1) A person shall not sell, use, or install a portable fire extinguisher within the province unless and until it has been listed and labelled for use in Canada.

(2) A person shall not sell, use, or install an obsolete fire extinguisher, including a fire extinguisher which has been noted as obsolete by NFPA 10, Portable Fire Extinguishers, as published by the National Fire Protection Association. Section 9(1)(2).

Plans to be approved

A plan for the installation of a fire extinguishing system and system components shall be approved by the fire commissioner before that system is installed.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1), where a fire extinguishing system required for commercial cooking according to NFPA 96, Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Cooking Operations is installed, plan approval by the fire commissioner is not required. Section 10(1)(2).

For more information, see:

  • Installation or Service of Unit or System Section11(a)(b)(c)(d).

Further details on the NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR REGULATION 45/12 can be found at Assembly.NL.ca.

In Nova Scotia, employers have requirements related to fire extinguishers to ensure the safety of their employees and compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.

  1. Provision of Fire Extinguishers

Employers must provide an adequate number of fire extinguishers that are appropriate for the types of fire hazards.

Fire extinguishers must be located so employees can reach them quickly in the event of a fire.

  1. Types and Placement

Selection: The type of fire extinguishers provided should be suitable for the specific fire risks in the workplace, such as Class A, B, C, D, or K extinguishers, depending on the materials present.

Distribution: Fire extinguishers must be distributed according to the fire hazard classification, with specific requirements for distance and coverage. For example, they should be placed at intervals that allow access within a reasonable distance, usually not more than 23 meters (75 feet).

  1. Maintenance and Inspection

Employers are required to ensure that fire extinguishers are inspected regularly, typically monthly, to check for proper placement, accessibility, and maintenance. Fire extinguishers must undergo annual maintenance checks by a qualified technician, and records of these inspections must be kept. Some types of fire extinguishers require hydrostatic to ensure they are in working condition.

  1. Employee Training

Training Requirement: Employers must ensure that employees are trained on the proper use of fire extinguishers.

Regular fire drills should be conducted to familiarize employees with the location of fire extinguishers.

  1. Signage and Marking

Fire extinguishers must be clearly marked with signs indicating their location. Extinguishers should also be labeled with the appropriate classifications and instructions for use.

  1. Compliance with Codes

Building and Fire Codes: Employers must comply with the Nova Scotia Building Code and Fire Safety Code.

Compliance with the Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act is mandatory, which includes provisions related to fire prevention and emergency preparedness.

  1. Documentation

Employers are required to keep records of all inspections, maintenance, training, and drills related to fire extinguishers as part of their safety management system.

Employers in Nova Scotia have specific responsibilities regarding fire extinguishers under the Nova Scotia Fire Safety Act. Sections 19 to 24 pertain to Portable Fire Extinguishers.

Prohibitions

No person may sell or distribute or have in their possession for the purpose of sale or distribution a portable fire extinguisher unless it meets the requirements of the Fire Code. Section 21.

No person may service or engage in the business of servicing a portable fire extinguisher unless they hold a valid license. Section 22.

For more information, see:

  • Interpretation Section 19.
  • Exemptions Section 20.
  • Prohibitions Section 21, 22.
  • Issue of License Section 23.
  • Suspension or Revocation of License Section 24.

Further details on the Fire Safety Act can be found at NovaScotia.ca.

In Ontario, employers are required to meet specific responsibilities and obligations regarding fire extinguishers under the Ontario Fire Protection And Prevention Act. Sections 6.2.2 to 6.2.7.9. (2) which pertain to PART 6 FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT.

Classification – Subsection 6.2.2.

Rating of Portable Extinguishers

Portable extinguishers shall be rated and identified in conformance with CAN/ULC-S508, “Standard for the Rating and Fire Testing of Fire Extinguishers”. Section 6.2.2.1.

Selection Requirements – Subsection 6.2.3.

Multiple Ratings

Where portable extinguishers have been tested and are rated as being acceptable for fighting more than one class of fire, each class of fire for which they are acceptable shall be designated on each extinguisher. Section 6.2.3.1.

Installation Requirements – Subsection 6.2.4.

Where Required

(1) Portable extinguishers shall be provided to protect every building, each hazardous occupancy inside the building, and each hazardous process or operation located outside. Section 6.2.4.1.

Operating Instructions

The operating instructions of portable extinguishers shall face outward when the extinguishers are located in cabinets, in wall recesses, or on shelves. Section 6.2.4.4.

Grading of Hazards – Subsection 6.2.5.

Light Hazard Occupancy

Where the quantity of combustible material present is such that fires of small size may be expected, such as in offices, schoolrooms, churches, assembly halls, and telephone exchanges, the occupancy shall be graded as light hazard. Section 6.2.5.1.

Ordinary Hazard Occupancy

Where the quantity of combustible material present is such that fires of moderate size may be expected, such as in mercantile occupancies, display rooms, auto showrooms, parking garages, light manufacturing, warehouses not classified as extra hazard, and school shop areas, the occupancy shall be graded as ordinary hazard. Section 6.2.5.2.

Extra Hazard Occupancy

Where the quantity of combustible material present is such that fires of severe magnitude may be expected, such as in woodworking, auto repair, aircraft servicing, mercantile storage areas, warehouses with high-piled combustibles and processes incorporating flammable liquids or combustible liquids, the occupancy shall be graded as extra hazard. Section 6.2.5.3.

Distribution – Subsection 6.2.6.

(1) Portable extinguishers required in Article 6.2.4.1. shall be located in conformance with this Subsection. Section 6.2.6.1.

(2) Despite Sentence (1), in an unoccupied warehouse equipped with a fixed fire protection system, provisions shall be made for portable extinguishers to be available for use by responding personnel.

(3) The location and number of portable extinguishers required under Sentence (2) shall be approved.

Inspection, Testing and Maintenance – Subsection 6.2.7.

(1) Maintenance and testing of portable extinguishers shall be in conformance with NFPA 10, “Portable Fire Extinguishers”. Section 6.2.7.1.

(2) Portable extinguishers that are inspected in conformance with NFPA 10, “Portable Fire Extinguishers”, are deemed to satisfy the inspection requirements of this Subsection.

For more information, see:

  • Supplementary Protection Section 6.2.6.11.
  • Extinguishers for Commercial Cooking Section 6.2.6.12.
  • Extinguishers For Flammable And Combustible Liquids Section 6.2.6.9.
  • Maintenance Records Section 6.2.7.5.
  • Test Labels Section 6.2.7.9(1)(2).

Further details on the ONTARIO REGULATION 213/07 made under the FIRE PROTECTION AND PREVENTION ACT can be found at: Ontario.ca.

In Prince Edward Island (PEI), employers are required to comply with specific obligations and requirements related to fire extinguishers.

1. Provision of Fire Extinguishers
Availability: Employers must ensure that an adequate number of fire extinguishers are provided, appropriate to the specific fire hazards present in the workplace, and placed in locations where they can be easily accessed in an emergency.
2. Types
Selection: Employers must provide fire extinguishers that are suitable for the types of fires that could occur. This includes ensuring that extinguishers are rated for the specific classes of fires (e.g., Class A, B, C, etc.).
3. Maintenance and Inspection
Regular Inspections: Employers are required to conduct monthly visual inspections of fire extinguishers.
Annual Maintenance: Fire extinguishers must undergo an annual maintenance check by a qualified technician.
Hydrostatic Testing: Specific fire extinguishers require hydrostatic testing at prescribed intervals, as per the manufacturer’s instructions or regulatory requirements, to verify the integrity of the extinguisher’s cylinder.
4. Employee Training
Training Requirements: This training should cover how to select the appropriate extinguisher for different types of fires and the correct operation using the PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep). Conducting fire drills is recommended.
5. Signage and Marking
Signage: Fire extinguishers must be clearly marked with visible signs, to comply with PEI’s fire safety regulations.
6. Compliance with Codes
Fire Safety Code: Employers must comply with the PEI Fire Safety Code.
Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA): The PEI OHSA mandates that employers implement fire safety measures, including the provision and maintenance of fire extinguishers.
7. Documentation
Record Keeping: Employers must keep detailed records of all inspections, maintenance activities, and training.
8. Risk Assessment
Fire Risk Assessment: Employers should perform a fire risk assessment to identify fire hazards in the workplace.
Employers in Prince Edward Island must adhere to Fire extinguisher safety regulations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act General Regulations. Sections 7.4, 25.1 to 25.4, 37.8, and 41.13 pertain to Fire Extinguishers.
Fire extinguishers
An approved fire extinguisher of adequate size shall be readily available at the location of every temporary heating device. Section 7.4
Requirements of Fire Extinguisher Use
Fire extinguishers shall be:
(a) protected from mechanical injury;
(b) located for easy access at suitably marked stations; and
(c) maintained in good operating condition. Section 25.4.
Fire extinguishing equipment
The employer shall ensure that adequate fire extinguishing equipment in good working order is readily available where any welding, soldering or flame-cutting or heating operations or any other process which uses heat application are performed. Section 37.8.
For more information, see:
• Multipurpose extinguisher Section 25.1.
• Chemical Extinguisher Section 25.2.
• Fire Extinguisher (fire season) Section 41.13.

Further details on regulations under the Fire Prevention Act Extinguisher Service Agencies can be found at PrinceEdwardIsland.ca.

Employers have specific obligations and requirements related to fire extinguishers to ensure workplace safety.

  1. Provision of Fire Extinguishers

Employers must ensure that extinguishers must correspond to the risks associated with the activities and materials used in the workplace. Fire extinguishers must be located near exits, in corridors, and in areas with identified fire risks.

  1. Types and Placement

Employers must select fire extinguishers suitable for the types of fire hazards present. Fire extinguishers should be distributed according to the size and layout of the workplace, ensuring that employees can reach an extinguisher within a reasonable distance, typically within 23 meters (75 feet) from any point in the workplace.

  1. Maintenance and Inspection

Regular Inspections: Employers are required to conduct monthly visual inspections of fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers must undergo annual maintenance by a qualified technician. Certain types of fire extinguishers require hydrostatic testing at intervals specified by the manufacturer or as required by regulatory standards, to ensure the cylinder’s integrity.

  1. Employee Training

Employers must provide training that includes how to identify the appropriate type of extinguisher for different fires and how to operate them using the PASS technique (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).

Fire Drills: Regular fire drills should be conducted to ensure employees are familiar with the location of fire extinguishers.

  1. Signage and Marking

Clear Signage: Fire extinguishers must be marked with visible signs indicating their location. Extinguishers must have clear and legible labels showing their classification, usage instructions, and any applicable maintenance or inspection dates.

  1. Compliance with Codes

Quebec Fire Safety Code: Employers must comply with the Québec Fire Safety Code and the Act Respecting Occupational Health and Safety (AROHS).

  1. Documentation

Record Keeping: Employers must maintain detailed records of all inspections, maintenance activities, and employee training.

  1. Risk Assessment

Fire Risk Assessment: Employers are encouraged to conduct a fire risk assessment to identify potential fire hazards.

Employers must adhere to Fire extinguisher safety regulations under the Act Respecting Occupational Health and Safety. Sections 36 and 37 pertain to Fire Extinguishers.

Portable Fire Extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in all buildings so that action may be taken in the early stages of a fire.

The choice, installation, utilization, and maintenance of these portable fire extinguishers shall comply with the NFPA-10 Portable Fire Extinguishers standard. Section 36.

Operating Conditions

Portable fire extinguishers shall:

(1) be approved by Underwriters’ Laboratories of Canada (ULC);

(2) provide protection according to the nature of the hazard;

(3) be filled after use;

(4) bear the name of the person entrusted therewith and the date of the last inspection. Section 37.

Further details on the Act Respecting Occupational Health and Safety can be found at Legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca.

Employers in Saskatchewan must adhere to Fire extinguisher safety regulations under the Health and Safety Standard/Fire Extinguishers. Section 4 to 4.6 and The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations sections 361(1) and 463 pertain to Fire Extinguishers.

GENERAL

Portable fire extinguishers are installed throughout SaskPower facilities and on vehicles as a first line of defense to escape from and to suppress fires.

Requirements for fire extinguishers for motor vehicles are outlined in the Motor Vehicle Safety Standard. Section 4.1.

SELECTION

The following factors should be considered when selecting the appropriate fire extinguisher for the class(es) of fire hazard:

  • Type (nature of materials that may be ignited) and size of fire to most likely to occur;
  • Hazards in the area where the fire is most likely to occur;
  • Level of occupancy;
  • Energized electrical equipment in the vicinity of the fire; and
  • Room capacity (e.g., confined space). Section 4.2.

An employer, contractor, or owner shall ensure that portable fire extinguishers are selected, located, inspected, maintained, and tested so that the health and safety of workers at the place of employment is protected.

(2) An employer, contractor, or owner shall ensure that portable fire extinguishers are placed not more than nine metres away from:

(a) each industrial open-flame portable heating device, tar pot or asphalt kettle that is in use; and

(b) each welding or cutting operation that is in progress. Section 36(1).

An employer or contractor shall ensure that a fire extinguisher approved for Class C fires is readily available to workers working on or near energized high voltage electrical equipment. Section 463.

For more information, see:

  • Provisioning Section 4.3.
  • Placement and Installation Section 4.4.
  • Monthly Inspections Section 4.5.1.
  • Inspection Elements Section 4.5.1.1.
  • General Maintenance Requirements Section 4.5.2.1.
  • Extinguisher Recharging Section 4.5.2.4.
  • Training Section 4.5.

Further details on regulations under the Health and Safety Standard/Fire Extinguishers can be found at Saskpower.com.

Fire Prevention Act and Natural Fire Code of Canada have additional requirements for fire extinguisher operations.

  1. National Fire Code of Canada (NFC)
  • Fire extinguishers must be appropriately selected based on the class of fire risk present in the area (Class A, B, C, etc.).
  • They must be installed in accessible locations, usually along normal paths of egress, and mounted at a height where they are easily reachable.
  • Regular inspections are required to ensure that fire extinguishers are in working order. This includes checking the pressure, the condition of the hose, and ensuring that the extinguishers are not obstructed.
  1. Maintenance and Inspection
  • Fire extinguishers must be inspected monthly by the property owner or a designated person to ensure they are in proper condition.
  • An annual maintenance check by a certified technician is required to verify that the extinguisher is fully operational.
  • Every six years, fire extinguishers should undergo a more comprehensive examination, and every 12 years, certain types may need hydrostatic testing to ensure the integrity of the cylinder.
  1. Training
  • Employers are responsible for ensuring that employees are trained in the use of fire extinguishers. This training should cover the different types of extinguishers, how to select the right one for the type of fire, and the proper technique for using it (PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).
  1. Location and Signage
  • Fire extinguishers must be placed in locations that are easily visible and accessible. Clear signage indicating the location of fire extinguishers is also required.
  1. Special Regulations
  • Specific industries or types of buildings may have additional requirements for fire extinguishers, depending on the nature of the fire hazards present.

Employers in Northwest Territories and Nunavut must adhere to Fire extinguisher safety regulations under the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. Sections 395.(1) and 458 pertain to Fire Extinguishers.

Fire Extinguishers

(1) An employer shall ensure that portable fire extinguishers are selected, located, inspected, maintained, and tested so that the health and safety of workers at the work site are protected.

(2) An employer shall ensure that portable fire extinguishers are placed not more than 9 m from:

(a) an industrial open-flame portable heating device, tar pot, or asphalt kettle that is in use; and

(b) a welding or cutting operation that is in progress. Section 395(1)(2).

An employer shall ensure that a fire extinguisher approved for Class C fires is readily available to workers working on or near energized high voltage electrical equipment. Section 458.

Further details on the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations can be found at Justice.gov.NT.ca.

In Yukon, employers have obligations and responsibilities regarding fire extinguishers to ensure workplace safety.

  1. Provision of Fire Extinguishers:
  • Employers must ensure that appropriate fire extinguishers are available in the workplace. The selection of fire extinguishers must be based on the types of fire hazards present (Class A, B, C, etc.).
  • Fire extinguishers should be distributed throughout the workplace in accordance with the hazards.
  1. Installation and Placement:
  • Fire extinguishers must be installed in easily accessible locations along normal paths of egress.
  • They should be mounted at a proper height where employees can reach them easily.
  1. Maintenance and Inspections:
  • Employers are responsible for ensuring that fire extinguishers undergo regular inspections and maintenance.
  • Annual maintenance checks must be performed by a certified technician.
  • Periodic hydrostatic testing is required for certain types of extinguishers to ensure the integrity of the cylinder.
  1. Training:
  • Employers must provide training that includes understanding the types of fires that can occur, how to select the correct extinguisher, and the correct usage technique (PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).
  1. Record Keeping:
  • Employers are responsible for maintaining records of all inspections, maintenance, and training.
  1. Compliance with Regulations:
  • Employers must comply with all applicable fire safety regulations.

Employers in Yukon must adhere to Fire Extinguishers safety regulations under the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. Section 1.70(1) pertains to Fire Protection.

Fire extinguishers – Provisions

(1) Portable fire extinguishers of an appropriate type, size and quantity shall be provided and maintained:

(a) in every workshop,

(b) at any place used for the storage or handling of combustible material, flammable liquid, or explosives,

(c) in places where welding, cutting, or similar operations are being carried out,

(d) where temporary oil, gas, or electric heaters are in operation,

(e) when operating a tar or asphalt kettle, and

(f) near the exit of each storey of a building under construction.

Training

(2) A reasonable number of workers, as determined through a hazard assessment of the workplace, shall be trained in the use, limitations, types, and location of the fire extinguishers provided at the workplace.

Inspection of Extinguishers

(3) Fire extinguishers provided at the workplace shall:

(a) contain an appropriate extinguishing agent,

(b) be refilled or replaced immediately after every use,

(c) be inspected at least annually and maintained in an operating condition, and

(d) bear the inspection cards with the name of the inspector and the date of the inspection. Section 1.70(1)

Further details on regulations under the Fire Prevention Act can be found at Laws.Yukon.ca.