It’s one of the most common fire code violations anyone could spot, fire extinguishers missing their monthly inspections. Yet it’s also one of the easiest inspections to complete and doesn’t require a fire and life safety professional. So who can expect fire extinguishers? In fact, just about anyone can perform monthly fire extinguisher inspections with little or no training as long as they follow these procedures.
How to Perform Monthly Fire Extinguisher Inspections
- Location in designated place
- Fire extinguisher is visible and easy to access
- Pressure gauge reading or indicator is in the operable range or green zone
- Extinguisher weight, feels heavy and full
- Tires, wheels, carriage, hose, and nozzle for wheeled extinguishers are in good condition
- Indicator for nonrechargeable extinguishers using push-to-test pressure indicators
During monthly fire extinguisher inspections, make a note of any deficiencies and then follow the appropriate maintenance procedures.
Special Conditions
If fire extinguishers are located where any of these conditions exist: high frequency of fires in the past, severe hazards, locations that make the fire extinguishers susceptible to mechanical injury or physical damage, exposure to abnormal temperatures or corrosive atmospheres then:
- Verify that operating instructions on nameplates are legible and face outward
- Make sure all safety seals and tamper indicators are intact
- Examine for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzle
If any deficiencies are found immediately schedule to have a professional correct the problem.
After the inspection, initial the fire extinguisher tag next to the appropriate month.
In order to ensure the fire extinguisher inspection is performed every 30 days, schedule it on the same day every month. Once the inspection is complete, it’s a good idea to keep a record of and maintain all the fire extinguisher inspection records in the same place. By doing this you’ll know exactly where to locate them when the AHJ asks for your fire extinguisher inspection records.
For more information on portable fire extinguishers and code requirements please refer to NFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers.
Categorized in: Education, Fire Suppression, General