How much distance must be maintained around a fire extinguisher?

Neither OSHA nor the NFPA provide a specific distance that must be left clear around a fire extinguisher. At 1910.157(c)(1), OSHA states only that employers shall “mount, locate and identify (fire extinguishers) so that they are readily accessible to employees without subjecting the employees to possible injury.” NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers, states, “Fire extinguishers shall be conspicuously located where they will be readily accessible and immediately available ...” and “Fire extinguishers shall not be obstructed ...” Also, be aware that state or local requirements may apply.

If you can quickly go to and easily retrieve an extinguisher, OSHA should be satisfied. However, whether or not there is a “blockage” or “accessibility” issue would be carefully scrutinized by an OSHA inspector. Most employers keep the floor beneath the fire extinguisher clear, and will mark that area with tape or floor markings so that nothing is inadvertently placed there.