Fire extinguishers are a critical safety tool in any workplace, home or public space. They provide the first line of defense against small fires, potentially preventing them from spreading and causing more damage. However, like any other piece of equipment, fire extinguishers require regular maintenance and inspections to ensure that they are fully functional when needed.
Here we'll explain why fire extinguisher maintenance and inspections are essential, what tasks should be performed, and how to comply with regulations to keep your environment safe!
Why Fire Extinguisher Maintenance is Crucial
Fire extinguishers are only useful if they work when needed! Regular maintenance ensures the equipment is in good working order and ready to be deployed in an emergency. Fire extinguishers can lose pressure, be tampered with, or suffer from wear and tear, all of which can compromise their effectiveness. Routine checks help identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
Proper fire extinguisher maintenance not only improves safety, it keeps businesses compliant with local fire safety regulations like Ontario's Fire Code and Building Code. Failure to maintain your extinguishers may result in penalties or fines from the local AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction).
Key Elements of Fire Extinguisher Inspections
Fire extinguisher inspections should be performed once a month to ensure they are functional. Here are the key steps involved in an inspection:
Visual Inspection: Start with a simple visual inspection. Check for signs of physical damage, corrosion, or leakage. Ensure that the extinguisher is positioned in its designated place, visible, and easily accessible. A fire extinguisher that is hidden behind equipment or obstructed by debris is useless in an emergency.
Check the Pressure Gauge: Most fire extinguishers are equipped with a pressure gauge. Ensure the needle is within the green zone, indicating the correct pressure level. If the needle is in the red zone (either low or high), the extinguisher needs recharging or servicing.
Examine the Safety Seal and Pin: Ensure the pin is securely in place and the tamper seal is intact. If the seal is broken or the pin is missing, the extinguisher may have been tampered with or used, and it should be sent for service immediately.
Check the Hose and Nozzle: Inspect the hose and nozzle for cracks, clogs, or blockages. Ensure the nozzle is free of obstructions and is not bent or damaged. A compromised nozzle or hose can prevent the extinguisher from discharging properly during an emergency.
Condition of the Extinguisher: The body of the extinguisher should be free of rust, dents, or other visible damage. Dents or cracks can weaken the structural integrity of the extinguisher, while rust can compromise the unit’s performance.
Labels and Instructions: The label should be clear and legible, with readable instructions on how to use the extinguisher. If the label is worn, damaged or unreadable, it should be replaced to ensure that users know how to operate the extinguisher effectively.
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance & Servicing
In addition to monthly inspections, fire extinguishers must be serviced annually by a certified fire safety professional. During this service, the extinguisher is thoroughly checked, tested, and recharged if necessary. Key tasks performed during an annual service may include:
Pressure testing: The extinguisher is subjected to a pressure test to ensure it can withstand the required pressure levels.
Recharging: If the extinguisher has been used or is found to have low pressure, it will be recharged to restore its functionality.
6-year maintenance: Dry chemical stored pressure fire extinguishers require internal inspection according to NFPA 10. The extinguisher is disassembled to check the internal components and the condition of the extinguishing agent.
Hydrostatic testing: For certain types of extinguishers, hydrostatic testing may be required every 10-12 years, depending on the manufacturer’s guidelines. This involves testing the cylinder to ensure it can withstand high pressure.
Compliance with Fire Safety Regulations
Compliance with regulations is vital to ensuring the safety of your employees and visitors and that your business remains in good standing with the local AHJ. In Ontario, multiple regulations require that fire extinguishers be regularly inspected and maintained by certified professionals. Some key standards and regulations include:
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 10: This standard outlines the maintenance, inspection, and testing requirements for portable fire extinguishers.
Occupational Health & Safety Act: Ontario Regulation 851: Industrial Establishments requires employers to comply with the Fire Code requirements in workplaces.
Ontario Building Code: Ontario Regulation 332/12: Building Code outlines several requirements for portable fire extinguishers.
Ontario Fire Code: Ontario Regulation 213/07: Fire Code outlines several requirements for portable fie extinguishers.
Non-compliance with these regulations could result in fines or penalties, but more importantly, it could leave your property and personnel vulnerable in the event of a fire.
Best Practices for Fire Extinguisher Maintenance
To ensure that your fire extinguishers remain in compliant and in optimal condition, consider adopting these best practices:
Designate a responsible person: Assign someone within your organization to be responsible for conducting monthly inspections and maintaining records.
Keep records: Maintain a log of inspections, services, and maintenance activities for each fire extinguisher.
Train employees: Educate your employees on how to properly inspect fire extinguishers, how to use them in case of an emergency, and the importance of keeping them in good working condition.
Follow manufacturer guidelines: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific maintenance procedures, as different types of extinguishers may have unique requirements.
Retain a service provider: Make sure you have a reputable service provider to inspect, service and maintain your fire extinguishers. We will help you track when inspections are due and ensure compliance.
Fire extinguishers are a critical part of your overall fire safety plan, but they only work if they’re properly maintained and inspected. By conducting monthly inspections and scheduling annual servicing, you can ensure that your fire extinguishers will perform when needed, providing peace of mind. Stay proactive, stay safe, and always be prepared.
Choose Correct Fire & Security to inspect and service your fire extinguishers, and choose a team of trained professionals committed to ensuring the safety and compliance of your property. We perform thorough inspections, routine maintenance, and necessary repairs, giving you peace of mind knowing your equipment is in top working condition. With prompt and reliable service, we ensure that your fire extinguishers are always ready for use in case of an emergency. Our customer-first approach means we take the time to address your specific needs, offering flexible scheduling and transparent pricing for monthly and annual inspections. Trust us to help protect your property and employees with our expert fire safety solutions.
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