Educational guidance on registers and logs — what each records, who maintains it, what it typically contains and how long it is generally kept. Informational only — template examples, not official documents or legal advice; a register documents activity, it does not by itself prove compliance, and employers remain responsible.
What an extinguisher service log is
A fire extinguisher service log records the routine visual checks and the periodic servicing of portable fire extinguishers — confirming each unit is present, in date, charged and undamaged.
This page is an educational overview with a simplified example of what such a log usually contains. It is not an official template, not jurisdiction-specific and not legal advice — servicing is usually carried out by a competent provider, and the employer decides what their records must cover.
Purpose
- Record routine checks and periodic servicing of each extinguisher.
- Confirm units are present, charged, in date and undamaged.
- Identify units needing service, recharge or replacement.
- Provide a record that extinguishers are maintained.
Who completes it
- Routine visual checks are often done by trained staff.
- Periodic servicing is usually done by a competent provider.
- A facilities lead or responsible person keeps the log.
- It is the employer’s responsibility to manage the arrangements.
When it is used
- At the routine check interval (often a quick regular visual check).
- At the periodic service interval by a competent provider.
- After use, damage or a low pressure reading.
- On a review cycle to confirm nothing is overdue.
Typical fields
- Extinguisher ID, type and location.
- Check or service date and who carried it out.
- Condition, pressure and seal status.
- Action taken: recharge, repair or replace.
- Next service due and sign-off.
- These are example fields only — adapt them to your premises and the applicable law.
Common mistakes
- Extinguishers moved, obstructed or missing without the log noting it.
- Routine visual checks skipped between services.
- Used or discharged units left in place.
- A log that does not match the extinguishers actually present.
Document workflow
An extinguisher service log feeds the fire equipment register that tracks all fire safety equipment, and works alongside the fire alarm and emergency lighting records. A failed or used unit should be recharged or replaced and the log updated.
See the related documents below for what is commonly used before, alongside and after an extinguisher service log.
Retention (high level)
Employers generally keep extinguisher service records for a period set by their obligations and risk management. Specific retention periods vary by jurisdiction and premises.
This page does not state a required period — confirm retention with the applicable law and the official authority.
Completing and sharing as a PDF
Extinguisher service logs and certificates are commonly stored and shared as PDFs for premises records and inspection. Exporting to PDF supports documentation; it does not make the log official or guarantee compliance.
Employer checklist
- Ensure routine visual checks and periodic servicing both happen.
- Use a competent provider for servicing and keep certificates.
- Replace or recharge used units and keep extinguishers accessible.
- Keep the log aligned with the fire equipment register.
Worker notes
- Know where the nearest extinguisher is and keep it accessible.
- Report a used, missing or damaged extinguisher.
- Only use an extinguisher if trained and safe to do so.
Country considerations
Extinguisher servicing expectations vary by country and premises, and the official authority differs. This page is high-level and general — it is not a statement of any country’s law and not a guarantee that a log is valid anywhere.
Always confirm the current requirements with the official authority for your country and a qualified professional.
Who is responsible
The employer or responsible person is responsible for ensuring extinguishers are suitable, maintained and serviced and that records are kept, and for compliance. This page is an educational overview with a template example; it does not determine what your log must contain, does not make a workplace compliant and does not transfer responsibility.
Export, edit and share documents
The documents, policies and templates this involves can be exported, edited, signed, stored and shared as PDFs with the HELPERG PDF Editor.
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