Monthly Fire Extinguisher Inspection
Did you know that to ensure that your fire extinguishers are ready to operate properly when needed, NFPA 10 requires that you properly inspect your portable fire extinguishers monthly?
Well is does and this is your responsibility as the owner of the fire extinguisher.
In Chapter 7 of NFPA 10 – “Inspection, Maintenance, and Recharging” the owner, their agent or the occupant shall be responsible for inspection, maintenance and recharging of their fire extinguishers.
7.1.1 Responsibility. The owner or designated agent or occupant of a property in which fire extinguishers are located shall be responsible for inspection, maintenance, and recharging.
Monthly Fire Extinguisher Inspection per NFPA 10
NFPA 10 defines Extinguisher Inspection as
NFPA 10 (2013) 3.3.14* Extinguisher Inspection. A quick check that a fire extinguisher is in its designated place, that it has not been actuated or tampered with, and that there is no obvious physical damage or condition to prevent its operation.
Frequency
NFPA 10 7.2 requires that all portable fire extinguishers be visually inspected when they are initially placed in to service and at least monthly thereafter.
Monthly visual inspections are intended to ensure that each extinguisher is in its designated place and will operate if needed.
NFPA 10 outlines the following inspection procedures
NFPA 10 (2013) 7.2.2 Inspection Procedures. Periodic inspection or electronic monitoring of fire extinguishers shall include a check of at least the following items:
(1) Location in designated place
(2) No obstruction to access or visibility
(3) Pressure gauge reading or indicator in the operable range or position
(4) Fullness determined by weighing or hefting
(5) Condition of tires, wheels, carriage, hose, and nozzle for wheeled extinguishers
(6) Indicator for non-rechargeable extinguishers using push to test pressure indicators
If during your monthly inspection you find any problems with your fire extinguishers you need to contact your local fire equipment service company immediately to have maintenance preformed on your fire extinguishers immediately.
New Jersey Fire Equipment LLC can assist you in monthly fire extinguisher inspections as well as annual fire extinguisher maintenance.
