In large-scale storage environments, fire safety isn’t just a requirement—it’s essential for protecting valuable stock, operations, and lives. When a major warehouse in Chester, spanning 45,000 square feet and dedicated to storing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), needed a full fire extinguisher upgrade, FST Systems delivered a tailored installation that addressed the site’s unique risks while ensuring full compliance and minimal downtime.
PPE warehouses face specific hazards: packaging materials, plastics, and textiles can fuel Class A fires (solids), while potential electrical faults or stored chemicals add Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (electrical) risks. Our project combined expert assessment, strategic placement, and ongoing support to create robust protection.
Project Challenges in a Large PPE Warehouse
- Massive scale — Covering 45,000 sq ft demanded precise extinguisher placement for full accessibility and coverage.
- PPE-specific risks — Combustible packaging, synthetic fabrics, and occasional flammable residues required multi-class extinguishers.
- Strict UK compliance — Meeting the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and BS 5306 standards for selection, positioning (e.g., no more than 30m travel distance), and maintenance.
- Zero operational disruption — Installation had to fit around busy warehouse workflows without halting PPE distribution.
Our Expert, Step-by-Step Approach
- In-Depth Fire Risk Assessment We started with a comprehensive site survey to map hazards, review layout, PPE storage zones, workflows, and evacuation routes. This identified high-risk areas and ensured extinguisher types and locations aligned with BS 5306 guidelines.
- Customised Fire Extinguisher Installation We deployed a mix of high-quality, BS EN3-compliant extinguishers suited to the risks:
- Water or water mist for Class A solids (e.g., packaging, textiles).
- Foam for combined Class A and B (flammable liquids).
- CO2 for electrical (Class C) risks near machinery or charging points.
- ABC dry powder as versatile backups for multi-hazard zones.
- Seamless Integration & Enhancements New extinguishers linked into existing fire alarms and signage for a unified system. We added clear labelling, mounting heights per BS 5306 (e.g., handles at 1m max for heavier units), and recommendations for future upgrades like additional detection.
- Staff Training for Real-World Readiness We delivered hands-on sessions teaching the PASS technique (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) and how to select the right extinguisher for PPE-related fires. Staff gained confidence in early response.
- Installation with Zero Downtime Work was scheduled in phases around operations—nights, off-peak hours—to keep the warehouse fully functional throughout.
- Proactive Ongoing Maintenance We set up a compliant schedule for annual servicing, monthly visual checks, and 24/7 emergency support to keep everything in peak condition.
Impressive Results & Client Impact
The new system delivers comprehensive, risk-tailored protection across the entire 45,000 sq ft facility. All extinguishers are optimally placed, fully compliant, and integrated for faster emergency response. Staff training has strengthened on-site preparedness, while minimal disruption ensured business continuity.
Warehouse management feedback was outstanding:
“FST Systems’ thorough assessment, professional installation, and thoughtful planning exceeded expectations. The tailored solution and ongoing support give us complete confidence in our fire safety—highly recommended.”
Protect Your Warehouse with Expert Fire Extinguisher Installation
Large storage facilities like PPE warehouses can’t afford to cut corners on fire safety. Proper installation isn’t just about compliance—it’s about safeguarding stock, operations, and people.
FST Systems specialises in fire extinguisher installation, risk assessments, and maintenance for warehouses and commercial sites across Chester, Wrexham, the North West of England, and North Wales. Our certified team delivers BS 5306-compliant solutions customised to your risks.
Ready to enhance your facility’s protection? Contact us today for a free site assessment or quote.
