BS 5306-9:2015

BSI Standards Publication

Fire extinguishing
installations and equipment
on premises –
Part 9: Recharging of portable fire
extinguishers – Code of practice
BS 5306-9:2015 BRITISH STANDARD

Publishing and copyright information

The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the document
was last issued.
© The British Standards Institution 2015
Published by BSI Standards Limited 2015
ISBN 978 0 580 85526 9
ICS 13.220.10
The following BSI references relate to the work on this document:
Committee reference FSH/2
Draft for comment 14/30295810 DC

Publication history
First published February 2015

Amendments issued since publication

Date Text affected
BRITISH STANDARD BS 5306-9:2015

Contents
Foreword ii
1 Scope 1
2 Normative references 1
3 Terms and definitions 1
4 Recharging of extinguishers 2
5 Evaluation of fitness for further service of extinguishers and actions to
be taken 5
6 Labelling and documentation 10
Annexes
Annex A (normative) Precautions for charging powder extinguishers 12
Bibliography 13
List of tables
Table 1 – Filling tolerances 3
Table 2 – Sequence of actions for recharge service procedures for
extinguishers 5
Table 3 – Recharge service actions – Initial operations 5

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i to iv,
pages 1 to 14, an inside back cover and a back cover.

© The British Standards Institution 2015 • i

BS 5306-9:2015 BRITISH STANDARD

Foreword
Publishing information
This part of BS 5306 is published by BSI Standards Limited, under licence from
The British Standards Institution, and came into effect on 31 March 2015.
It was prepared by Technical Committee FSH/2, Fire extinguishers. A list of
organizations represented on this committee can be obtained on request to its
secretary.

Supersession
This part of BS 5306 supersedes BS 6643-1:1985 and BS 6643-2:1985, which are
withdrawn.

Relationship with other publications

BS 5306 is published in the following parts:
• Part 0: Guide for selection of installed systems and other fire extinguishing
equipment;
• Part 1: Hose reels and foam inlets;
• Part 3: Commissioning and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers –
Code of practice;
• Part 4: Specification for carbon dioxide systems;
• Part 5: Halon systems:
• Section 5.1: Specification for halon 1301 total flooding systems;
• Section 5.2: Halon 1211 total flooding systems;
• Part 8: Selection and positioning of portable fire extinguishers – Code of
practice;
• Part 9: Recharging of portable fire extinguishers – Code of practice.

Information about this document

This standard is an amalgamation of BS 6643-1:1985 and BS 6643-2:1985. It is a
full revision of the standards, and introduces the following principal changes:
• introduction of verified alternatives;
• clarification of where new components should be used;
• recognition of changes in BS 5306-3;
• guidance on the procedures to be followed during the maintenance process
of recharging an extinguisher;
• recognition of changes in relevant legislation.

Hazard warnings
WARNING. This British Standard calls for the use of substances and/or
procedures that can be injurious to health if adequate precautions are not
taken. It refers only to technical suitability and does not absolve the user
from legal obligations relating to health and safety at any stage.

ii • © The British Standards Institution 2015

BRITISH STANDARD BS 5306-9:2015

Use of this document

As a code of practice, this part of BS 5306 takes the form of guidance and
recommendations. It should not be quoted as if it were a specification and
particular care should be taken to ensure that claims of compliance are not
misleading.

Presentational conventions
The provisions in this standard are presented in roman (i.e. upright) type.
Its recommendations are expressed in sentences in which the principal auxiliary
verb is “should”.
Commentary, explanation and general informative material is presented in
smaller italic type, and does not constitute a normative element.
Where words have alternative spellings, the preferred spelling of the Shorter
Oxford English Dictionary is used (e.g. “organization” rather than
“organisation”).

Contractual and legal considerations

This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from legal
obligations.
In particular, attention is drawn to the following statutory regulations and their
associated Guidance Notes:
• Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 [1] and associated
Guidance Notes;
• Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006 [2] and associated Guidance Notes;
• Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2001 [3] and
associated Guidance Notes;
• Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 [4];
• Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010 [5];
• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 [6];
• Controls on Ozone-Depleting Substances Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 2011 [7];
• Chemical (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply)
Regulations 2002 [8];
• Environmental Protection (Controls on Ozone-Depleting Substances)
(Amendment) Regulations 2011 [9];
• Environmental Protection (Controls on Ozone-Depleting Substances)
(Northern Ireland) Regulations 2003 [10];
• Health and Safety at Work Act, etc. 1974 [11];
• Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 [12];
• Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 1996 [13];
• Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 [14];
• Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 2000 [15];
• Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 [16];

© The British Standards Institution 2015 • iii

BS 5306-9:2015 BRITISH STANDARD

• Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004 [17];

• Transportable Pressure Vessels Regulations 2001 [18];
• Transportable Pressure Vessels Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 [19];
• EC Regulation 1907/2006 [20];
• EC Regulation 1272/2008 [21].
Attention is also drawn to environmental legislation, especially where this
concerns the disposal of media that have been replaced during the course of the
recharging procedures given in this part of BS 5306.

iv • © The British Standards Institution 2015

BRITISH STANDARD BS 5306-9:2015

1 Scope
This part of BS 5306 gives recommendations for the recharging of portable fire
extinguishers.
This part of BS 5306 also gives recommendations for components, gas cartridges,
propellants and refill extinguishing media for extinguishers.
NOTE Disposable extinguishers are not intended to be recharged and are therefore
outside the scope of this part of BS 5306.

2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this
document and are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only
the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
BS 5306-3, Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises –
Part 3: Commissioning and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers –
Code of practice 1)
BS 7863, Recommendations for colour coding to indicate the extinguishing
media contained in portable fire extinguishers
BS EN 3 (all parts), Portable fire extinguishers
BS EN ISO 5923, Equipment for fire protection and fire fighting –
Fire extinguishing media – Carbon dioxide

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this part of BS 5306, the terms and definitions given
in BS 5306-3 and the following apply.

3.1 declaration of conformity

statement by the manufacturer and/or supplier of a component or medium that
a verified alternative (3.3) is fit for the purpose for which it is to be used and
that it ensures the continued safety, reliability and performance of the
extinguisher

3.2 recharging
maintenance procedure carried out after complete or partial discharge of an
extinguisher, or as part of a scheduled maintenance procedure, to restore the
extinguisher to its operational condition

3.3 verified alternative

component or medium, not specified by the original manufacturer of the fire
extinguisher, for which assurance has been provided in the form of a declaration
of conformity (3.1)
NOTE 1 The reliability of a portable fire extinguisher to perform its functions on
demand is, to a significant degree, governed by the reliability of individual
components. In general, it is advisable that all components, such as body, valve
assembly and extinguishing medium, conform to the applicable part(s) of the
BS EN 3 series. Users of this part of BS 5306 are advised to consider the desirability
of using verified alternatives that are supported by an accredited third-party
certification body.

1)
This part of BS 5306 also gives an informative reference to BS 5306-3:2009.

© The British Standards Institution 2015 • 1

BS 5306-9:2015 BRITISH STANDARD

NOTE 2 Where a verified alternative is used, the maintenance supplier is

responsible for the extinguisher and for its subsequent performance as a
consequence of the use of the verified alternative.

4 Recharging of extinguishers
4.1 General
Before recharging, water-based extinguishers (including foam extinguishers)
should be thoroughly washed out with clean water, but on no account should
this procedure be applied to powder, clean agent or carbon dioxide
extinguishers, which have to be kept dry.
NOTE Under EC Regulation No. 2037/2000 [22] the use of halons as extinguishing
media is restricted to a limited number of “critical uses” (see BS 5306-3:2009,
Annex G).
When an extinguisher has been recharged for any reason, the date should be
recorded on the extinguisher’s maintenance label attached to the extinguisher
(see Clause 6).

4.2 Components and media

4.2.1 General
Components and extinguishing media supplied or specified by the manufacturer
of the extinguisher, or verified alternatives, should be used to replace those
found to be unsuitable for continued service. Any medium/component used
should ensure the continued safety, reliability and performance of the
extinguisher.

CAUTION. The recharging of an extinguisher, or the replacement of any of its

components in a manner not specified by the original manufacturer (e.g. by
using a verified alternative), can be detrimental to the performance of the
extinguisher if not carried out correctly.

Where media are found to be below the mass or volume specified, further
media should not be added to that contained in the extinguisher (i.e. topping
up of media is not allowed).
The nominal mass/volume of the refill should be equal to the nominal
mass/volume as stated in the front label of the extinguisher.
Tolerances on the nominal charge should be in accordance with Table 1.

4.2.2 Components
4.2.2.1 General
All components used in the service procedures of BS 5306-3 and the present part
of BS 5306 (i.e. BS 5306-9) should be such as to bring the extinguisher back into
an operational condition. If replacement parts are required (e.g. if the current
part is defective or missing), the procedures in 4.2.2.2 and 4.2.2.3 should be
followed.

4.2.2.2 Pressure-retaining components that require replacement

Pressure-retaining components should be new and either:
a) as specified by the original extinguisher manufacturer; or
b) a verified alternative.

2 • © The British Standards Institution 2015

BRITISH STANDARD BS 5306-9:2015

Table 1 Filling tolerances

Extinguishing medium Relative tolerance Minimum Maximum mass

mass
% kg kg

Powder (kg)
1 ±5 MT + 0.950 MT + 1.050
2 ±3 MT + 1.940 MT + 2.060
3 ±2 MT + 2.940 MT + 3.060
4 ±2 MT + 3.920 MT + 4.080
6 ±2 MT + 5.880 MT + 6.120
9 ±2 MT + 8.820 MT + 9.180
12 ±2 MT + 11.760 MT + 12.240
All other media (kg or L)
2 0 MT + 1.900 MT + 2.000
5

3 0 MT + 1.850 MT + 3.000
5

4 0 MT + 3.800 MT + 4.000
5

5 0 MT + 4.750 MT + 5.000
5

6 0 MT + 5.700 MT + 6.000
5

9 0 MT + 8.550 MT + 9.000
5

NOTE 1 The figures in this table are taken from BS EN 3-7:2009.

NOTE 2 The mass of the empty body (MT) includes all valves, hose and fittings
except CO2 where the empty mass is measured without discharge horn/hose assembly.

4.2.2.3 Non-pressure-retaining components that require replacement

Non-pressure-retaining components should be either:
a) as specified by the original extinguisher manufacturer, including the reuse
of a component from an identical model; or
b) a verified alternative.

4.3 Gas cartridges

Replacement gas cartridges for water, water-based (including foam) and powder
extinguishers should conform to the appropriate part of BS EN 3, and should be
of the correct type (coating, thread and shape) and size (capacity, propellant
and dimensions).

WARNING. Use of incorrect gas cartridges can be detrimental to the correct

functioning of the extinguisher, and in extreme circumstances could cause the
extinguisher to rupture.

CAUTION. It is inadvisable to use gas cartridges that have been retested or

re-stamped. Use of retested or re-stamped gas cartridges can be detrimental
to the correct functioning of the extinguisher. Stamping of the hexagon can
cause distortion and affect the seal of the cartridge

Gas cartridges should be removed from service if more than 10 years have
elapsed since the date of manufacture.

© The British Standards Institution 2015 • 3

BS 5306-9:2015 BRITISH STANDARD

4.4 Media
4.4.1 Water and water-based extinguishers (including water plus
additive, foam and wet chemical)
4.4.1.1 Water extinguishers
Tap water or similar potable water should be used for refilling water
extinguishers.
Where an extinguisher was originally charged with de-ionized water, the
extinguisher should be recharged with de-ionized water.

4.4.1.2 Water-based extinguishers (including water plus additive, foam and

wet chemical)
In addition to any additives, tap water or similar potable water should be used
for refilling water-based extinguishers.
If the water-based extinguisher has an additive for purposes such as corrosion
inhibition, freezing point depression, penetration, enhanced wetting, film
formation, etc., the extinguisher manufacturer’s specified additive or a verified
alternative should be used.

4.4.2 Powder
Powder refill charges should be either:
a) as originally, previously or currently specified by the extinguisher
manufacturer; or
b) a verified alternative.
When charging powder extinguishers, precautions should be taken in
accordance with Annex A.

4.4.3 Carbon dioxide

Carbon dioxide used to refill extinguishers should conform to BS EN ISO 5923.

4.4.4 Clean agents

The extinguishers should be refilled with the same clean agent as originally
used, where this is permitted by legislation.

4.5 Propellants
In general, the propellant used for recharging should be:
a) chemically the same as that used in the original manufacture, with or
without tracer gas; or
b) chemically the same as that used in the original manufacture but with a
different tracer gas to facilitate leak detection.
Exceptions are as follows:
1) where air was used in the original manufacture, nitrogen or air may be
used;
2) for water-based extinguishers only, where nitrogen was used in the original
manufacture, nitrogen or air may be used;
3) for powder extinguishers only, the moisture content of nitrogen, air or
other gas used for recharging should not exceed 31 ppm by mass.
NOTE Air with a moisture content of 31 ppm or less cannot be obtained from
normal factory compressed air systems.

4 • © The British Standards Institution 2015

BRITISH STANDARD BS 5306-9:2015

The mass of propellant used should be such as to give the correct working
pressure at 20 °C. Stored pressure extinguishers are usually charged with
propellant to a measured working pressure, and allowance should be made for
any temperature difference which might vary the working pressure.
Carbon dioxide used for recharging should conform to BS EN ISO 5923.

5 Evaluation of fitness for further service of

extinguishers and actions to be taken
The recharging procedures listed in Table 2 should be carried out for the
appropriate type of extinguisher, in accordance with the detailed actions
described in Table 3.
NOTE Table 2 shows a numbered sequence, from left to right, of actions necessary
to perform a recharge service on the main types of extinguisher. Each action is
composed of one or more operations or inspections, the details of which are
described in Table 3. It is not necessary, or possible, to perform every action on every
type of extinguisher.

Table 2 Sequence of actions for recharge service procedures for extinguishers

Extinguisher type Sequence of actions A)

Stored pressure
Water and water-based (including 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 28, 29
foam)
Powder 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 16, 17, 19, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 28, 29
Primary sealed powder 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 22, 25, 27, 28, 29
Carbon dioxide 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 10, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29

Cartridge-operated
Water and water-based (including 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 18, 20, 21, 22, 25, 27, 28, 29
foam)
Powder 1,2,3,6,7,8,9,13,16,17,19,20,21,22,25,27,28,29
A)
The numbers refer to actions detailed in Table 3.

Table 3 Recharge service actions – Initial operations

Action Component and/or Procedure

no. action

1 Safety clip and Check the safety clip and indicating devices to determine whether the
indicating devices extinguisher might have been operated.
CAUTION. Make safe by replacing the safety pin as necessary.
2 External examination Examine the exterior for corrosion, dents, gouges or damage that
could impair the safe operation of the extinguisher, paying particular
attention to any plastics headcap for signs of degradation.
3 Operating Check the operating instructions, which should be in English, for
instructions accuracy and legibility

© The British Standards Institution 2015 • 5

BS 5306-9:2015 BRITISH STANDARD

Table 3 Recharge service actions – Initial operations

Action Component and/or Procedure

no. action

4 Removable operating Carry out this procedure where the extinguisher is designed to have
mechanism (e.g. gas the operating mechanism removed without the discharge of contents
cartridge strike or loss of pressure.
knob): water and CAUTION. Check for signs that the extinguisher has been used, as the
water-based
head and hose assembly might be pressurized. To check this, squeeze
(including foam)
the lever of the discharge control (also known as the pistol), whilst
ensuring that any content is discharged where no damage can be
caused. If this check reveals that the extinguisher has been actuated,
and is pressurized, then the extinguisher should be discharged in
accordance with action 9.
Where the extinguisher is not pressurized, remove and check the
operating mechanism and discharge control (where fitted) for free
movement. Clean and lubricate the operating mechanism, rectify any
problems, or replace with a new operating mechanism as necessary.
Reassemble and refit any removable operating mechanism.
5 Removable operating Carry out this procedure where the extinguisher is designed to have
mechanism (e.g. the operating mechanism removed without the discharge of contents
stored pressure strike or loss of pressure.
knob): primary CAUTION. Check for signs that the extinguisher has been used, as the
sealed powder head and hose assembly might be pressurized. To check this, squeeze
the lever of the discharge control (also known as the pistol), whilst
ensuring that any content is discharged where no damage can be
caused. If this check reveals that the extinguisher has been actuated,
and is pressurized, then it should be taken out of service and returned
for refilling in accordance with action 11. Under no circumstances
attempt to remove the head and hose assembly of a pressurized
extinguisher.
Where the extinguisher is not pressurized, remove and check the
operating mechanism and discharge control (where fitted) for free
movement. Clean and lubricate the operating mechanism, rectify any
problems, or replace with a new operating mechanism as necessary.
Reassemble and refit any removable operating mechanism.
6 Operating Clean if necessary and pass air through the air passages.
mechanism and air
Check the operating mechanism and discharge control (where fitted)
passages
for free movement. Rectify any problems or replace with a new
operating mechanism or discharge control as necessary. Protect moving
parts and threads against corrosion with a lubricant as recommended
by the extinguisher manufacturer.
Reassemble and refit any operating mechanism and discharge control.
7 Seals for the The seals for the discharge horn, the hose, the nozzle and the valve
discharge horn, hose, body should be replaced with new seals when these components are
nozzle, valve body removed from the extinguisher. If the hose is fitted with a diaphragm,
and hose diaphragm this should always be replaced with a new diaphragm. Check the
condition and fitness for use of the discharge nozzle, horn and hose,
and ensure that the nozzle, horn and hose, if fitted, are not
obstructed, cracked, worn, or damaged. Replace with a new nozzle,
horn and/or hose if necessary.
Reassemble and refit any hose or horn.

6 • © The British Standards Institution 2015

BRITISH STANDARD BS 5306-9:2015

Table 3 Recharge service actions – Initial operations

Action Component and/or Procedure

no. action

8 Safety pin Remove the safety pin and check that the operating lever is
undamaged and its movement is unobstructed.
9 Discharge of Ensure that all assemblies and components checked for safety use are
contents: water and reassembled or replaced prior to discharge.
water-based The impact of the discharge of the extinguishing medium on the
(including foam)
environment should be taken into account before discharging the
charges, powder
extinguisher contents.
Discharge the extinguisher (it should only be discharged in an
environmentally acceptable manner).
10 Discharge of Ensure that all assemblies and components checked for safety use are
contents: carbon reassembled or replaced prior to discharge.
dioxide
The impact of the discharge of the extinguishing medium on the
environment should be taken into account before discharging the
extinguisher contents.
WARNING. Because of the high vapour pressure of carbon dioxide;
actuation of an extinguisher without a hose and horn assembly or a
swivel horn assembly fitted is extremely hazardous. Always ensure that
the hose and horn assembly or swivel horn assembly is fitted correctly
on reassembly and before discharge. Do not discharge in a confined
area.
Discharge the extinguisher (it should only be discharged in an
environmentally acceptable manner).
11 Recharge of Primary sealed powder extinguishers require specialist filling
contents: primary equipment. Extinguishers should be returned to the
sealed powder manufacturer/supplier or to a competent person/company with the
correct refill equipment, training and spare parts.
12 Opening a stored Extreme caution should be used when opening any extinguisher.
pressure extinguisher Care should be taken to ensure that all residual pressure has been
released, and that a pressurized extinguisher is not opened.
Using the manufacturer’s recommended tool/spanner, unscrew the
head assembly slowly to allow any residual pressure to vent from the
extinguisher through the venting slots. This should be done outside
the premises or in a position where no damage can be caused.
Once all residual pressure has been released, completely unscrew and
remove the head assembly.
13 Opening a gas Extreme caution should be used when opening any extinguisher.
cartridge Care should be taken to ensure that any residual pressure is released,
extinguisher and that a pressurized extinguisher is not opened.
Make sure that there is no residual pressure in the extinguisher as
follows. Using the manufacturer’s recommended tool/spanner, unscrew
the head assembly slowly to allow any residual pressure to vent from
the extinguisher through the venting slots. This should be done
outside the premises or in a position where no damage can be caused.
Once all residual pressure has been released, completely unscrew the
head assembly. Remove the head assembly.
Remove the gas cartridge.
14 Water, water-based, Rinse out the body of the extinguisher with clean water and discard
and foam charges water prior to refilling.

© The British Standards Institution 2015 • 7

BS 5306-9:2015 BRITISH STANDARD

Table 3 Recharge service actions – Initial operations

Action Component and/or Procedure

no. action

15 Body: water, Examine the interior with the aid of an inspection light. Check for
water-based and corrosion, especially around the thread or neck, evidence of corrosion
foam under the lining, lining splits, bubbles, loss of adhesion (particularly
around the thread neck) or general deterioration of lining.
16 Powder charges Empty out any residual powder and discard prior to refilling.
17 Body: powder Examine the interior with the aid of an inspection light. Check for
corrosion and deterioration of lining, if fitted.
18 Refilling: water, Refill the extinguisher in accordance with either:
water-based, and
• the extinguisher manufacturer’s instructions; or
foam charges
• the medium supplier’s instructions.
Particular attention should be paid to the medium type, concentration
and quantity. Where the additive is in a separate container, remove
this container and replace in accordance with the extinguisher
manufacturer’s instructions.
CAUTION. It is essential that the appropriate refilling instructions are
followed. When refilling, the instructions should never be mixed
between the extinguisher manufacturer’s instructions and the medium
supplier’s instructions as this could result in a non-performing
extinguisher.
19 Refilling: powder Refill the extinguisher in accordance with either:
charges
• the extinguisher manufacturer’s instructions; or
• the medium supplier’s instructions.
Particular attention should be paid to the medium type (e.g. ABC, BC),
active ingredient (e.g. ABC30, ABC70), brand/manufacturer and
quantity.
The use of sieves or machines to remove foreign bodies or caked or
lumpy material is not recommended (see Annex A).
20 Operating Clean if necessary and pass air through the air passages, paying
mechanism and air particular attention to the vent holes (or other venting device) in the
passages headcap. Check that the strainer (where fitted), internal discharge
tube and breather valve (where fitted) are unobstructed. Rectify any
problems or replace with a new tube or valve if necessary. Renew
gas-band, where fitted. Check the operating mechanism and discharge
control (where fitted) for free movement. Rectify any problems or
replace with a new operating mechanism or discharge control as
necessary. Protect moving parts and threads against corrosion with a
lubricant as recommended by the extinguisher manufacturer.
21 Gas cartridge Replace with a new gas cartridge of the propellant type, content, size
and coating appropriate to the extinguishing medium as stated by the
extinguisher manufacturer.

8 • © The British Standards Institution 2015

BRITISH STANDARD BS 5306-9:2015

Table 3 Recharge service actions – Initial operations

Action Component and/or Procedure

no. action

22 Reassembling a Reassemble the extinguisher in accordance with the extinguisher

stored pressure or manufacturer’s instructions.
gas cartridge
Ensure that all renewed o-seals are clean and properly seated.
extinguisher
When reassembling the headcap assembly onto the extinguisher,
ensure that the hose outlet is positioned so that the nozzle can be
located in/onto the nozzle clip, where fitted.
Using the manufacturer’s recommended tool/spanner, tighten the head
assembly to ensure that it is tightly affixed and will retain pressure.
Install a new indicating device designed to show whether the
extinguisher might have been operated.
23 Stored pressure Re-pressurize the extinguisher in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions. When the extinguisher is fully pressurized, the pressure
indicator should be in the green zone.
24 Carbon dioxide Before refilling the extinguisher, ensure that it is still within
the 10 year date range as indicated by the manufacturer’s date stamp.
Refill the extinguisher in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
Carbon dioxide used to refill extinguishers should conform to
BS EN ISO 5923.
25 Weight check Weigh the extinguisher according to the extinguisher manufacturer’s
instructions (in the case of a CO2 extinguisher, weigh before
reassembly of the discharge horn/hose assembly). Record this on the
maintenance label (see Table 1).
26 Reassembling a Reassemble the extinguisher in accordance with the extinguisher
carbon dioxide manufacturer’s instructions.
extinguisher Ensure that all renewed o-seals are clean and properly seated.
Refit the swivel horn, or hose and horn, ensuring that it is seated
correctly in the valve housing. Tighten the hexagonal retaining nut
with the manufacturer’s recommended tool/spanner. For swivel horn
type, tighten the hexagonal retaining nut sufficiently that the swivel
horn remains in operating position (i.e. at approximately 45°) without
external support, then reposition the horn down to the vertical (if the
hexagonal retaining nut has a grub screw, refit it). For hose and horn
type, tighten the hexagonal retaining nut; then stow the horn in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
27 Maintenance label Complete the details on the maintenance label.
Where a medium/additive has been used which is a verified alternative
then a label should be affixed as recommended in 6.1.3.
28 Mounting Check any mounting bracket or stand if accessible and rectify any
bracket/stand problems.
29 Report Write an inspection report advising the responsible person of the state
of maintenance of the extinguisher (see 6.2).

© The British Standards Institution 2015 • 9

BS 5306-9:2015 BRITISH STANDARD

6 Labelling and documentation

6.1 Labelling
6.1.1 General
Any labelling that is applied to the extinguisher should not contain prominent
colours that conflict with BS 7863.

6.1.2 Maintenance label

A maintenance label, conforming to BS 5306-3, should be completed upon the
conclusion of the recharge, indicating that the extinguisher has been recharged
in accordance with this standard.

6.1.3 Verified alternative – Identification of medium

Where verified alternatives have been used these should be identified.
Where a medium/additive has been used which is not the original
manufacturer’s then a label should be affixed to the extinguisher giving the
following information:
a) name and contact details of the recharging organization;
b) name of manufacturer/supplier of the refill;
c) unique product name/code of the refill medium.
NOTE This information is required for health and safety purposes and to identify
the appropriate material safety data sheets (MSDS).
The following words should also be included on the recharge label:
“The performance of this extinguisher may vary in relation to its
original marking.”

6.2 Documentation
NOTE The information recommended in 6.2.1 and 6.2.2 may be amalgamated to
form one document.

6.2.1 Provision of a written report

The competent person should advise the responsible person in a written report
of any extinguisher that has been condemned and the reason.

6.2.2 Maintenance documentation

The documentation supplied by the recharging company to the client should
include the following information:
a) the date of maintenance/recharging;
b) identification of the maintenance technician and/or their signature;
c) the signature of the customer, which should be obtained upon completion
of the service visit and prior to the service technician leaving the premises,
or a record of the reason why this is not possible (e.g. unmanned sites);
d) all the appropriate MSDS/COSHH data sheets in respect of the substances
used in the recharge, including information on where to obtain
MSDS/COSHH data;

10 • © The British Standards Institution 2015

BRITISH STANDARD BS 5306-9:2015

e) if applicable, notification that verified alternatives have been used.

NOTE Guidance is available at http://www.hse.gov.uk/coshh/basics/datasheets.htm 2).

2)
Last accessed 18 March 2015.

© The British Standards Institution 2015 • 11

BS 5306-9:2015 BRITISH STANDARD

Annex A Precautions for charging powder extinguishers

(normative)
Before any powder extinguisher is opened it should be ascertained that, during
inspection and maintenance, the precautions described in this Annex can be and
will be observed.
Only extinguishers containing the same type of powder should be opened and
examined at any one time.
Mixing or cross-contamination of different types of powder should be avoided.

WARNING. Some mixtures can react, sometimes after a long delay, producing
water and carbon dioxide with consequent caking of the powder and, in
closed containers, a pressure rise. This rise in pressure could cause the
extinguisher to explode.

Powder extinguishers should be opened only in dry conditions, and for the
minimum time necessary for examination, to minimize the effect of atmospheric
moisture on the powder.

CAUTION. Powder can absorb moisture if exposed to air of high relative

humidity, or if the powder is colder than the ambient air, which could render
the extinguisher inoperable.

Powder refills should only be opened immediately before use, and bulk refills
should be resealed immediately after use, to reduce the possibility of
contamination or absorption of moisture from the atmosphere.
In the absence of specialist closed powder recovery/filling equipment, reusing
powder should be avoided, as reused powder can eventually become lumpy and
interrupt the flow of powder when the extinguisher is operated.
Where closed powder recovery/filling equipment is used, each piece of
equipment should be dedicated for use with only one type of powder.

12 • © The British Standards Institution 2015

BRITISH STANDARD BS 5306-9:2015

Bibliography
Standards publications
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the
latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
BS 5306-0, Fire protection installations and equipment on premises –
Part 0: Guide for selection of installed systems and other fire equipment
BS 5306-1, Code of practice for fire extinguishing installations and equipment on
premises – Part 1: Hose reels and foam inlets
BS 5306-4, Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises –
Part 4: Specification for carbon dioxide systems
BS 5306-5.1, Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises –
Part 5: Halon systems – Section 5.1: Specification for halon 1301 total flooding
systems
BS 5306-5.2, Code of practice for fire extinguishing installations and equipment
on premises – Part 5: Halon systems – Section 5.2: Halon 1211 total flooding
systems
BS 5306-8, Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises –
Part 8: Selection and positioning of portable fire extinguishers – Code of practice

Other publications
[1] GREAT BRITAIN. Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
London: The Stationery Office.
[2] SCOTLAND. Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006.
London: The Stationery Office.
[3] GREAT BRITAIN. Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations (Northern
Ireland) 2001. London: The Stationery Office.
[4] SCOTLAND. Fire (Scotland) Act 2005. Edinburgh: The Stationery Office.
[5] NORTHERN IRELAND. Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010.
Belfast: The Stationery Office.
[6] GREAT BRITAIN. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
Regulations 2002. London: The Stationery Office.
[7] GREAT BRITAIN. Controls on Ozone-Depleting Substances Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 2011. London: The Stationery Office.
[8] GREAT BRITAIN. Chemical (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply)
Regulations 2002. London: The Stationery Office.
[9] GREAT BRITAIN. Environmental Protection (Controls on Ozone-Depleting
Substances) (Amendment) Regulations 2011. London: The Stationery Office.
[10] GREAT BRITAIN. Environmental Protection (Controls on Ozone-Depleting
Substances) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2003.
London: The Stationery Office.
[11] GREAT BRITAIN. Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974.
London: The Stationery Office.
[12] GREAT BRITAIN. Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals)
Regulations 1996. London: HMSO.
[13] GREAT BRITAIN Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 1996. London: HMSO.

© The British Standards Institution 2015 • 13

BS 5306-9:2015 BRITISH STANDARD

[14] GREAT BRITAIN. Management of Health and Safety at Work

Regulations 1999 and subsequent amendments. London: The Stationery
Office.
[15] GREAT BRITAIN. Management of Health and Safety at Work
Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000. London: The Stationery Office.
[16] GREAT BRITAIN. Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000.
London: The Stationery Office.
[17] GREAT BRITAIN. Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004.
London: The Stationery Office.
[18] GREAT BRITAIN. Transportable Pressure Vessels Regulations 2001.
London: The Stationery Office.
[19] NORTHERN IRELAND. Transportable Pressure Vessels Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 2003. London: The Stationery Office.
[20] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European
Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the
Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals
(REACH), establishing a European Chemicals Agency, amending
Directive 1999/45/EC and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 and
Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94 as well as Council
Directive 76/769/EEC and Commission Directives 91/155/EEC, 93/67/EEC,
93/105/EC and 2000/21/EC. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of
the European Communities, 2006.
[21] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European
Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on classification,
labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures, amending and
repealing Directives 67/548/EEC and 1999/45/EC, and amending Regulation
(EC) No 1907/2006. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the
European Communities, 2008.
[22] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. Regulation (EC) No. 2037/2000 of the European
Parliament and of the Council of 29 June 2000 on substances that deplete
the ozone layer. OJ No. L244, 29.09.2000. Luxembourg: Office for Official
Publications of the European Communities, 2000.

14 • © The British Standards Institution 2015

This page deliberately left blank
NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW

British Standards Institution (BSI)

BSI is the national body responsible for preparing British Standards and other
standards-related publications, information and services.
BSI is incorporated by Royal Charter. British Standards and other standardization
products are published by BSI Standards Limited.

About us Revisions
We bring together business, industry, government, consumers, innovators Our British Standards and other publications are updated by amendment or revision.
and others to shape their combined experience and expertise into standards We continually improve the quality of our products and services to benefit your
-based solutions. business. If you find an inaccuracy or ambiguity within a British Standard or other
The knowledge embodied in our standards has been carefully assembled in BSI publication please inform the Knowledge Centre.
a dependable format and refined through our open consultation process.
Organizations of all sizes and across all sectors choose standards to help Copyright
them achieve their goals. All the data, software and documentation set out in all British Standards and
other BSI publications are the property of and copyrighted by BSI, or some person
Information on standards or entity that owns copyright in the information used (such as the international
We can provide you with the knowledge that your organization needs standardization bodies) and has formally licensed such information to BSI for
to succeed. Find out more about British Standards by visiting our website at commercial publication and use. Except as permitted under the Copyright, Designs
bsigroup.com/standards or contacting our Customer Services team or and Patents Act 1988 no extract may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system
Knowledge Centre. or transmitted in any form or by any means – electronic, photocopying, recording
or otherwise – without prior written permission from BSI. Details and advice can
Buying standards be obtained from the Copyright & Licensing Department.
You can buy and download PDF versions of BSI publications, including British
and adopted European and international standards, through our website at Useful Contacts:
bsigroup.com/shop, where hard copies can also be purchased. Customer Services
If you need international and foreign standards from other Standards Development Tel: +44 845 086 9001
Organizations, hard copies can be ordered from our Customer Services team. Email (orders): [email protected]
Email (enquiries): [email protected]
Subscriptions
Subscriptions
Our range of subscription services are designed to make using standards
Tel: +44 845 086 9001
easier for you. For further information on our subscription products go to
Email: [email protected]
bsigroup.com/subscriptions.
With British Standards Online (BSOL) you’ll have instant access to over 55,000 Knowledge Centre
British and adopted European and international standards from your desktop. Tel: +44 20 8996 7004
It’s available 24/7 and is refreshed daily so you’ll always be up to date. Email: [email protected]
You can keep in touch with standards developments and receive substantial
Copyright & Licensing
discounts on the purchase price of standards, both in single copy and subscription
format, by becoming a BSI Subscribing Member. Tel: +44 20 8996 7070
Email: [email protected]
PLUS is an updating service exclusive to BSI Subscribing Members. You will
automatically receive the latest hard copy of your standards when they’re
revised or replaced.
To find out more about becoming a BSI Subscribing Member and the benefits
of membership, please visit bsigroup.com/shop.
With a Multi-User Network Licence (MUNL) you are able to host standards
publications on your intranet. Licences can cover as few or as many users as you
wish. With updates supplied as soon as they’re available, you can be sure your
documentation is current. For further information, email [email protected].

BSI Group Headquarters

389 Chiswick High Road London W4 4AL UK