A Step-By-Step Guide to Effective Fire Extinguisher Inspections 

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), approximately 30% of fire extinguishers in use are not in good condition or working properly. This alarming statistic highlights a significant safety risk in both residential and commercial settings. A fire extinguisher that fails to operate during an emergency can result in catastrophic consequences, including loss of life, extensive property damage, and potential legal liabilities. That’s why regular fire extinguisher inspections are more than just a regulatory requirement.

Let’s find out why fire extinguisher checks are an essential aspect of maintaining workplace safety and ensuring that your emergency response tools are ready when needed.

What is a Fire Extinguisher Inspection?

A fire extinguisher inspection is a thorough examination of the extinguisher’s physical condition and operational effectiveness and readiness. It includes checking the physical condition, pressure levels, tamper seals, and the presence of a current inspection tag. Fire extinguisher checks guarantee the extinguisher’s reliability in the event of a fire.

Who can carry out fire extinguisher checks?

Certified fire safety professionals typically conduct these inspections. However, basic fire extinguisher checks can be performed by knowledgeable and trained individuals within an organization. According to OSHA standard 1910.157(c)(4), employers are legally required to maintain fire extinguishers in a fully charged and operable condition, ensuring they are always accessible except during use.

How Often Should Fire Extinguishers Be Checked?

According to NFPA 10 guidelines, it is necessary to inspect fire extinguishers during the initial installation and then once a month. A monthly inspection should be conducted to check for physical damage, proper pressure levels, and the presence of tamper seals. If these extinguishers are placed in areas where they are susceptible to rust, damage, or unauthorized handling, more frequent inspections may be required. 

You should also do a monthly inspection and have an annual maintenance inspection done in accordance with NFPA 10 regulations. 

A licensed fire extinguisher maintenance contractor must conduct an annual inspection to ensure that the extinguishers are fully pressurized, have the correct weight, and are free of damage. The inspector may also perform a pull test on the pin, replace seals, and provide a dated inspection tag. If an extinguisher fails the inspection, it will need to be replaced. 

During the annual inspection, it is recommended to review the inspection documentation to ensure that it is complete, and stored properly and that the appropriate personnel know where and how to access the records.

Most Common Issues With Fire Extinguishers In The Workplace

To address the common issues with fire extinguishers in the workplace, you must consider several factors that can compromise their performance and safety. Some of the most common issues include the following:

• Obstructed Access

One of the most frequent problems is when fire extinguishers are blocked or difficult to reach during an emergency. 

• Lack of Maintenance

Without monthly fire extinguisher inspections and annual maintenance, fire extinguishers can become ineffective or even hazardous.

• Expired or Obsolete Equipment

Fire extinguishers have a limited lifespan. Over time, the chemical agents inside may degrade, and parts can wear out. Regular fire extinguisher checks help identify whether they need to be replaced.

• Improper Use or Lack of Training

Even the best-maintained fire extinguisher is useless if employees don’t know how to use it. Regular training sessions on fire extinguisher use ensure everyone is prepared to act quickly and effectively in case of a fire.

• Environmental Damage

Fire extinguishers are susceptible to damage from environmental factors like heat, moisture, and chemicals. Inspecting for signs of corrosion, rust, or other damage is crucial to ensure they function correctly when needed.

How to Perform an Effective Fire Extinguisher Inspection

Let’s see how you can perform a fire extinguisher check effectively to overcome the issues listed above. 

Step 1: Locate the Fire Extinguisher

Ensure that the fire extinguisher is in its designated place. It should be easily accessible, unobstructed, and not hidden behind doors or other equipment. The extinguisher’s location should be marked clearly so that even someone unfamiliar with the premises can find it quickly during an emergency.

Step 2: Check the Tamper Seal and Pull Pin

The tamper seal and pull pin on the fire extinguisher should be intact. If the tamper seal is broken or the pull pin is missing, it might indicate that the extinguisher has been used or tampered with. Used fire extinguishers need to be replaced or recharged immediately by professionals.

Step 3: Examine the Physical Condition

Look for any visible signs of wear, tear, or damage such as dents, leaks, rust, or corrosion on the extinguisher body. Such issues could potentially affect the functionality of the extinguisher. Also, check the hose and nozzle for any blockages, cracks, or damage. Damaged parts need to be replaced by professionals.

Step 4: Check the Pressure Gauge

Most fire extinguishers have a pressure gauge with areas marked in green and red. The needle should be in the green area, indicating that the extinguisher is adequately charged. If it’s in the red zone, the fire extinguisher may be overcharged or undercharged, and it needs to be serviced or replaced.

Step 5: Verify the Weight

Most fire extinguishers have their weight marked on them. By picking up and feeling the weight of the extinguisher, you can usually tell if it feels right. If it feels much lighter than it should, it might indicate that the extinguisher has lost some of its firefighting agents and needs to be replaced or serviced.

Step 6: Check the Inspection Tag or Label

Review the inspection tag or label to ensure it reflects the latest professional inspection, typically required annually per NFPA and OSHA standards. If the tag indicates the last inspection was over a year ago, schedule a professional fire extinguisher check immediately.

Step 7: Record the Fire Extinguisher Inspection

After the fire extinguisher inspection, note down the date of your inspection, the inspector’s name, and any findings or issues observed during the check. This record-keeping helps track the inspection history of each fire extinguisher and assists in identifying any recurring issues.

Step 8: Communicate Any Issues

If you discover any issues during your fire extinguisher safety check, communicate this immediately to the relevant individual or department within your organization responsible for fire safety. They should arrange for a certified fire equipment company to replace, service, or repair the fire extinguisher as necessary.

Both your company and the external auditors will be able to access up-to-date information about the performance of your fire extinguisher inspections and audits at any time. 

With this approach, you can rest assured that your fire extinguisher risk assessments will go through without a hitch and that you’ll stay compliant. 

Free Fire Extinguisher Inspection Forms 

Sign up and you can start using these free checklists and templates to perform fire extinguisher assessments effectively.

• Fire Extinguisher Inspection Form PDF
• Annual Fire Extinguisher Inspection Form

GoAudits also offers the following fire safety audit checklists. These checklists cover different aspects of workplace fire safety, including fire door inspections, fire risk assessments, etc.

• Fire Door Inspection Checklist
• Fire Risk Assessment Checklist
• Monthly Fire Safety Inspection 
• Fire Prevention Inspection Checklist
• Fire Alarm Inspection
• Fire Safety Inspection Checklist
• NFPA 25 Water Storage Tanks Inspection
• NFPA 25 Fire Pump Inspection
• Fire Safety Compliant Checklist
• Fire Pump Inspection Checklist
• Workplace Fire Safety Checklist
• Fire Protection Equipment Checklist
• Fire Testing Checklist
• Smoke Detector Inspection Checklist
• Fire Drill Checklist Template

Importance of Inspection Tags

Inspection tags on fire extinguishers are crucial for ensuring that these devices are always ready to function effectively in an emergency. They provide vital information about the extinguisher’s operational status, maintenance history, and service life.

• Ensuring Operational Readiness

Inspection tags confirm that a fire extinguisher is operationally ready. The tags typically include details such as the date of the last inspection, which helps to ensure that regular fire extinguisher checks have been performed. It allows both employees and emergency responders to quickly assess whether an extinguisher can be relied upon in the event of a fire​.

• Maintenance Accountability

Inspection tags also serve as a record of all maintenance activities performed on the extinguisher. By documenting each fire extinguisher inspection and service, these tags help maintain a history of the extinguisher’s upkeep, ensuring that it receives the necessary attention over time. It’s essential for compliance with safety standards and ensuring the device remains effective throughout its service life. 

• Service Life Management

Finally, inspection tags are essential for managing the service life of fire extinguishers. These tags often include information about the extinguisher’s expiration date or the date of the last hydrostatic test, which assesses the cylinder’s ability to safely contain pressurized contents. This information ensures that extinguishers are replaced or recharged before they reach the end of their effective service life. 

Why are Fire Extinguisher Checks Important?

Fire extinguisher inspections ensure safety and compliance in workplaces. 

• Compliance with Safety Regulations

One of the primary reasons fire extinguisher inspections are important is their role in maintaining compliance with safety regulations set by authorities like OSHA and NFPA. Failing to conduct these fire extinguisher risk assessments can lead to non-compliance, which might result in fines and increased liability.

• Prevention of Catastrophic Damage

Regular fire extinguisher safety checks ensure that fire extinguishers are always in operational condition. This drastically increases the chances of controlling a fire quickly and minimizes the potential damage to property, risk of injury, and loss of life.

• Ensuring Employee & Workplace Safety

Knowing that fire extinguishers are reliable and ready to use when needed provides a safer environment for employees, which can boost their confidence and productivity.

Fire Extinguisher Checks Requirements in Workplaces 

Fire extinguisher inspections ensure compliance with legal requirements and maintain the readiness of fire safety equipment. In addition to periodic monthly inspections and annual maintenance discussed above, there are other requirements related to fire extinguisher risk assessments in workplaces. 

• Hydrostatic Testing

Hydrostatic testing is another essential requirement, mandated at specific intervals depending on the type of fire extinguisher. This test assesses the structural integrity of the extinguisher’s pressure vessel, ensuring it can withstand the high pressures it may be subjected to during use. For most fire extinguishers, this testing is required every 5 to 12 years. It is often more cost-effective to replace the extinguisher at the 12-year mark rather than undergoing the testing process​.

• Legal Requirements for Compliance and Safety (OSHA & NFPA)

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) set the standards for fire extinguisher inspections. OSHA’s General Industry Standard 1910.157(d)(1) requires that fire extinguishers be provided based on the classes of anticipated workplace fires and maintained in a state of readiness. NFPA 10 provides more detailed guidelines, including the frequency of inspections and maintenance requirements. 

• Placement and Accessibility

Proper placement and accessibility of fire extinguishers are crucial for their effective use in an emergency. Fire extinguishers must be easily accessible, with their location clearly marked and unobstructed by any objects. They should be mounted at a height that allows easy retrieval and positioned in areas where they are most likely to be needed, such as near exits or in high-risk zones like kitchens or mechanical rooms​.

• Assessing the Fire Hazard Level

To determine the appropriate number and type of fire extinguishers, it is important to assess the fire hazard level of the building. Buildings are classified into three hazard levels: light (low risk), ordinary (moderate risk), and extra (high risk). This classification determines both the quantity and type of fire extinguishers needed. For instance, a light hazard area might only require a standard ABC extinguisher, while an extra hazard area could necessitate additional or specialized extinguishers, such as those designed for flammable liquids or electrical fires​.

FAQs

What is fire extinguisher testing?

Fire extinguisher testing involves a series of inspections, including both internal and external checks, to confirm that the extinguishers meet safety standards and are functioning correctly. This includes checking the pressure levels, the condition of the cylinder, and the effectiveness of the extinguishing agent. Regular testing is necessary to detect any potential issues, such as leaks, corrosion, or loss of pressure, which could render the extinguisher ineffective in a fire emergency. Testing is typically mandated by regulations such as those from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)​. 

What is the standard test for fire extinguishers?

The standard test for fire extinguishers primarily includes two types of testing: hydrostatic testing and operational testing. Hydrostatic testing is conducted to check the integrity of the extinguisher’s cylinder and involves subjecting it to high pressure to ensure it can withstand its operational pressures without failure. This test is generally required every 5 to 12 years, depending on the type of extinguisher. Operational testing, on the other hand, includes verifying the extinguisher’s ability to discharge correctly, and ensuring that the nozzle and other components function as intended. This also includes checking the internal pressure and the state of the extinguishing agent. 

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