Fire extinguishers are our first line of defense against fires. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that this life-saving equipment is operable at all times, so that it works properly whenever needed. With regular maintenance, and timely inspection, you can rest assured that your fire fighting device is a reliable option for combating a small flame that may turn into blazing fire later. Here, we’ll put light on fire extinguisher inspection and maintenance requirements that you should consider in order to ensure that your first line of defense is always ready.
Perform An Inspection Regularly
Performing a timely inspection is the easiest thing you can do to make sure that your fire extinguisher and you can rely on it during an emergency. The first step to inspecting a fire extinguisher is to check if it is installed in the right place where it is easily visible to everyone. And, there should be proper signage indicating where the extinguisher is. Once you ensure that the extinguisher is easily accessible, the next step is to ensure that the pressure gauge is the right operable range. Also, make sure that it is full. If it is a wheeled extinguisher, check if the wheels, tires, hose, or nozzle are in right condition. You don’t have to be a professional to inspect your fire extinguisher. With some research and knowledge, you should be able to do it by yourself. It is recommended to get it checked by professionals once a year.
Get The Fire Extinguisher Hydrostatically Tested
A hydrostatic testing starts with internal/external examination of fire extinguishers. In this procedure, the extinguisher parts are removed, and is stripped down to hose, and then filled with water at a certain pressure. After that, the extinguisher must be dried completely. Once all the water is dried up, it is reassembled and recharged. In case there is any leakage, or failure of the moving of couplings, the fire extinguisher fails the hydrostatic testing. In that case, it must be condemned.
Take Care of Its Regular Maintenance
Fire extinguisher maintenance procedures include all the procedures mentioned in the services manual. It also involves a thorough examination of all the fire extinguisher elements, like mechanical parts, physical condition, extinguishing agent, etc. Since it requires external, as well as internal examination of the fire extinguishers, you need to hire a certified professional to get the maintenance work done.
Furthermore, it is necessary to have the external maintenance test conducted annually at the time of hydrostatic testing. Internal maintenance examination should be conducted once in 5-6 years based on the type of fire extinguisher.
Refilling A Fire Extinguisher
Whether a fire extinguisher has been used to suppress a fire or it has been accidentally discharged, it needs to be refilled. Below are some more points on when it’s time to refill a fire extinguisher-
- The fire extinguisher has been used.
- Its pressure gauge is not within an acceptable range.
- The equipment has reached the hydrostatic or refilling pressure test interval.
- A professional has recommended you to refill the fire extinguisher.
Replacing A Fire Extinguisher
Suppose you reach for a fire extinguisher and find that it is not working. The results could be disastrous. This is why it is important to get the fire extinguishers replaced. But when? Below is when you need to consider a fire extinguisher replacement-
- The lifespan of a fire extinguisher has been completed.
- The fire extinguisher model is old. It does not meet the required standards.
- There is some physical damage to the fire extinguisher’s body.
- It has failed the hydrostatic testing.
Conclusion
This is all you need to know about fire extinguisher inspection and maintenance. Keeping a fire extinguisher in good condition is not only a compliance requirement, but it also plays a crucial role in putting fires out and saves you from a mishap. Does your firefighting equipment need inspection? Talk to certified professionals now!
