What are the Guidelines for Fire Extinguisher Inspections?
National commercial fire safety guidelines come from two regulatory bodies — the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). While both bodies outline specific instructions for compliance, they come down to three main rules:
- Fire extinguishers should be inspected monthly by any competent person aware of the regulations.
- Fire extinguishers should have a yearly inspection from a certified fire extinguisher inspector.
- Every five to 12 years, an inspection should also include hydrostatic testing.
Thankfully, the most frequent inspection is also the easiest. All it takes is a few minutes once a month. You can do it yourself or ask someone you trust to make sure:
- The extinguisher is located in an easy-to-find place that has visible signage and can be seen from anywhere in the room.
- The extinguisher is easy to access — in an emergency, every second will count.
- The pressure gauge is within an operable range.
- The extinguisher is full — a standard ABC extinguisher has a capacity of about 10 pounds, so be sure to know how heavy yours should be. Most people can estimate fullness by lifting the extinguisher.
- Any hoses, wheels, carriages, and other accessories are in working order.
- The push-to-test pressure indicator works (on non-rechargeable extinguishers).
Our Fire Extinguisher Testing Services
While monthly fire extinguisher inspections are crucial in identifying damage and ensuring site safety, annual inspections go beyond the standard visual assessment anyone can complete. To maintain operational compliance, you must have a licensed professional evaluate your extinguishers and your entire fire suppression system.
National Fire & Safety is your one-stop shop for all fire inspection and protection needs. Our services help you meet NFPA 10 and OSHA guidelines through:
- Visual inspection: We start by completing the same points as any monthly inspection by doing a visual evaluation to check for any obvious violations. We look for damage on the extinguisher’s exterior and ensure the equipment has been kept up to date.
- Physical inspection: Next, we will do a physical inspection. This involves looking at the moving parts, such as the handle and hose, to make sure they can be used properly. We also check the weight to evaluate how full the extinguisher is.
- Hydrostatic testing: When needed, we also complete hydrostatic testing. Because this test involves working with the pressurized materials of the extinguisher, we advise against trying to complete it yourself. It should always be completed by a professional fire extinguisher inspector.
- Extinguisher maintenance: If we note any violations or repair needs during our inspection, your National Fire & Safety inspector can also service or replace your extinguisher to get you back in compliance.
- Verification and recordkeeping: Finally, we will certify the inspection is complete by installing the tag and verification-of-service collar.
Why Trust National Fire & Safety?
National Fire & Safety has spent more than seven decades working with businesses like yours to protect people, property, and peace of mind. Our mission puts a strong focus on:
- Compliance: Our inspectors are highly knowledgeable about the national and state regulations that matter to you. We are also prepared to adhere to any local or internal standards that help you maintain rigorous compliance and exceptional site safety.
- Vigilance: Sometimes, fires are unavoidable, but more often, there are things we can do to prevent them. We stay vigilant of potential hazards during our inspection so you can go beyond meeting regulations and create a safer space for your staff to operate.
- Technical proficiency: Our unmatched skills, knowledge, and expertise make us a true total solution for your safety needs. Our staff is here to deliver services that help you thrive, from designing the ideal fire suppression system to general repairs and maintenance.
Schedule Your Business’s Fire Extinguisher Inspections Today
Trust National Fire & Safety to protect your business when it matters most. Whether it’s fire alarm repair or full system replacement, our experts are ready to rise to the occasion and put your safety first. Schedule your inspection or learn more about how we can secure your property when you contact us today.
