This page is intended to
provide individuals with general information pertaining to inspecting and
maintaining a fire extinguisher.
Inspect fire
extinguishers at least once a month (more
often in severe environments).
You must ensure that:
· The extinguisher is not blocked by
equipment, coats or other objects that could interfere with access in an
emergency.
· The pressure is at the recommended
level. On extinguishers equipped with a gauge, the needle should be in the
green zone - not too high and not too low.
· The nozzle or other parts are not
hindered in any way.
· The pin and tamper seal (if it has one)
are intact.
· There are no dents, leaks, rust,
chemical deposits and/or other signs of abuse/wear. Wipe off any corrosive
chemicals, oil, gunk etc. that may have deposited on the extinguisher.
Some manufacturers recommend shaking
your dry chemical extinguishers once a month to prevent the powder from
settling/packing.
Fire extinguishers should be pressure
tested (a process called hydrostatic testing) after a number of years to ensure
that the cylinder is safe to use. Consult your owner's manual, extinguisher
label or the manufacturer to see when yours may need such testing.
If the extinguisher is damaged or needs
recharging, replace it immediately!
IMPORTANT:
Recharge all extinguishers immediately after use regardless of how much they
were used.
What is the
difference between a fire extinguisher inspection and fire extinguisher
maintenance?
INSPECTION
An inspection is a “quick check” to give reasonable assurance that a fire extinguisher is available, fully charged and operable. The value of an inspection lies in the frequency, regularity, and thoroughness with which it is conducted. The frequency will vary from hourly to monthly, based on the needs of the situation. Inspections should always be conducted when extinguishers are initially placed in service and thereafter at approximately 30-day intervals.
An inspection is a “quick check” to give reasonable assurance that a fire extinguisher is available, fully charged and operable. The value of an inspection lies in the frequency, regularity, and thoroughness with which it is conducted. The frequency will vary from hourly to monthly, based on the needs of the situation. Inspections should always be conducted when extinguishers are initially placed in service and thereafter at approximately 30-day intervals.
MAINTENANCE
Fire extinguishers should be maintained at regular intervals (at least once a year), or when specifically indicated by an inspection. Maintenance is a “thorough check” of the extinguisher. It is intended to give maximum assurance that an extinguisher will operate effectively and safely. It includes a thorough examination and any necessary repair, recharging or replacement. It will normally reveal the need for hydrostatic testing of an extinguisher.
Fire extinguishers should be maintained at regular intervals (at least once a year), or when specifically indicated by an inspection. Maintenance is a “thorough check” of the extinguisher. It is intended to give maximum assurance that an extinguisher will operate effectively and safely. It includes a thorough examination and any necessary repair, recharging or replacement. It will normally reveal the need for hydrostatic testing of an extinguisher.
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