Why Regular Fire Extinguisher Inspections Matter
Regular inspections ensure that fire extinguishers are compliant, meeting NFPA and OSHA requirements. Specifically, they should be:
- Accessible: Easily located and unobstructed
- Operational: Fully charged and functional
Neglecting inspections can lead to fines and worse: malfunctioning equipment during emergencies, posing significant risks.
Fire Extinguisher Inspection Frequencies
Fire extinguisher inspections have different requirements at multiple frequencies. To align with OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.157 and NFPA 10 standards, it's important to do the following:
- Monthly Visual Inspections: These inspections can be done by the owner or designated personnel at the building.
- Annual Maintenance Checks: These annual maintenance checks must be done by certified professionals to assess each extinguisher's condition thoroughly.
- Internal Maintenance (often every 6 years): As a facilities manager, a certified professional business would be able to help you stay on top of any internal maintenance that's necessary for fire extinguishers on your premises.
- Hydrostatic Tests (often every 12 years): Likewise, a certified professional business would be responsible for hydrostatic tests when applicable.
Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist for Monthly Inspections
These monthly visual inspections can be done by anyone that has been trained to recognize obvious physical problems such as damage, obstructions, missing seals, or gauge abnormalities. For instance, they can be done in-house by trained employees. Formal training or certification is NOT explicitly required for these basic monthly inspections, unlike annual maintenance, which typically requires certification or professional servicing.
Use this step-by-step checklist during monthly inspections:
- Location & Accessibility: Ensure the extinguisher is in its designated spot and unobstructed.
- Physical Condition: Check for dents, corrosion, or other damage.
- Pressure Gauge: Verify the needle is in the green zone, indicating proper pressure.
- Seal & Tamper Indicator: Confirm the safety seal is intact and the pin is secure.
- Label & Instructions: Ensure the label is legible and instructions are clear.
- Hose & Nozzle: Inspect for cracks, blockages, or damage.
- Weight Check: Lift to feel if the extinguisher is full; significant weight loss may indicate leakage.
- Inspection Tag: Update the inspection date and initials on the tag.
Want to print out this checklist? Click here: Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist for Monthly Inspections
Annual Fire Extinguisher Maintenance and Professional Inspections
Annual inspections should be conducted by certified professionals who will:
- Disassemble the extinguisher to inspect internal components.
- Replace or recharge the extinguishing agent if necessary.
- Perform hydrostatic testing as required.
- Maintain accurate records of all inspections and maintenance, by updating fire extinguisher tags and/or providing inspection reports.
These thorough checks ensure long-term reliability and compliance with safety regulations.
How to Find a Licensed Professional for Annual Fire Extinguisher Maintenance and Inspections
You will need to find a business with proper licensing to perform this maintenance and inspection. You should be able to find several licensed businesses by searching for fire extinguisher businesses in your city or surrounding area, through Google or Yelp. From there, you can contact several businesses and receive a quote for their services.
You can also ask other business owners or operators for referrals or recommendations.
Conclusion
Regular fire extinguisher inspections are a critical component of a comprehensive fire safety plan. By following this checklist and adhering to inspection schedules, you ensure that your fire extinguishers are ready to perform when needed, safeguarding lives and property. Further, you will avoid fines and headaches when dealing with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) who perform routine inspections to ensure your property is up to code.
