The Importance of Professional Fire Extinguisher Inspections

Fire extinguishers are a crucial tool to have on hand in an emergency. During inspections, a fire safety technician will examine the distribution of your fire extinguishers to ensure they are easily accessible and visible throughout your facility.

The technician will inspect the device for physical damage, such as dents, corrosion, or tampering. They will then verify that the pull pin and tamper seal are intact and that the inspection tag is present.

Safety

Regular inspections are required for fire extinguishers. A skilled professional who can see possible issues during the walk-through process must do the fire extinguisher inspection near me. Some businesses assign in-house staff members or safety officers with this responsibility, while others outsource these duties to professional fire protection services providers.

Fire protection specialists will start with a visual inspection, checking for any visible damage that might affect the functionality of an extinguisher in an emergency. They also examine the nozzles for any obstructions or dirt that might impede the spraying of the extinguishing agent and verify the labeling information to ensure it matches the fire extinguisher type.

They will also test each extinguisher by briefly discharging it to ensure it works. If an extinguisher is deemed ineffective, the technician will document and report it for recharging or replacement. They will also record the date and results of each inspection and issue a dated inspection tag.

Reduced Risk

A reputable fire protection contractor will conduct a more thorough inspection than you or your employees could perform. A professional will consider many things besides the standard monthly visual and six-year hydrostatic testing required by NPFA 10. For example, your business may have relocated offices or equipment since your last inspection, changing the number of fire extinguishers needed in specific areas. A contractor will also check that all escape routes are marked and comply with government regulations.

They will examine the location of each fire extinguisher, ensuring that they are visible and easily accessible during an emergency. They will inspect the hose for signs of damage, such as cuts or abrasions, and ensure no blockage in the nozzle. They will also check that the pull-pin and safety seal have not been tampered with or damaged. They will also weigh the extinguisher to ensure it is within the designated weight specifications.

Increased Efficiency

In addition to ensuring fire extinguishers are code-compliant and ready for use, professionals can guide you on whether your extinguishers need to be replaced or recharged. They can also recommend getting new extinguishers if damaged or worn out.

The visual inspection starts with a check of the nozzle, hose, and couplings. The tech removes the nozzle and examines the internal valve ports and threads for corrosion or leakage. They also verify the operating instructions are present and legible. The pressure gauge is checked to ensure it is within the acceptable range. The tamper seals and indicators are verified to be intact.

The inspector will then weigh the extinguisher to ensure it matches the weight listed on its nameplate. They will then clean the outside of the extinguisher and record the maintenance. Some types of extinguishers have 6-year maintenance and hydrostatic testing requirements that must be considered. These are outside the standard monthly visual inspections.

Reduced Costs

A professional fire safety technician will inspect a fire extinguisher to check for any signs of physical damage or corrosion. They will also ensure the pressure gauge is within an acceptable range, verify that the seals and tamper indicators are intact, and examine the last service date on the fire extinguisher tag. The technician will also perform necessary maintenance or repairs, including refilling and recharging the agent and addressing blockages and leaks.

This option reduces costs and allows flexibility, specialized knowledge, and access to equipment. However, it requires a designated employee to receive training and certification.

Professional fire extinguisher inspections are a great way to meet regulatory guidelines set by authorities such as OSHA and NFPA 10. Not complying with these regulations may lead to fines or penalties.