Most fire accidents start small and maybe extinguished or controlled with the appropriate use of fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers serve as the first defence to put out small fires before they spread on a massive level. That’s why it becomes an absolute must to conduct periodic fire extinguisher checks and inspections to ensure fire extinguishers in your facility, building, or complex are in proper working condition.
Even a single malfunction in any extinguisher can endanger countless lives. It is critical to enlist fire safety services to efficiently perform a fire extinguisher inspection to stay proactive and prevent fire accidents. Here are five crucial steps to complete the inspection:
#1 Check Accessibility
Firstly, fire extinguishers should be placed in apt locations for ease of visibility and accessibility. It should not be blocked by any other objects or equipment that would make it difficult to reach out during an emergency. Portable fire extinguishers should also be secured in their specific locations, whether inside a glass cabinet, box, and wall-mounted to prevent them from being moved.
Besides, also make sure that the operating instructions on the nameplate are legible and facing outward.
#2 Inspect the Physical State of the Extinguisher
Look closely at the fire extinguisher to check its label and overall condition. Check if the cylinder is free from any physical defects, including corrosion or dents. Also, ensure that the connection between the hose and cylinder is secure and inspect for any cracks in its hose or leak in the nozzle. Additionally, check if the locking pin is secured or the tamper seal is unbroken to prevent accidental discharge.
#3 Check the Pressure Gauge
As an essential part of your routine fire extinguisher checks, lift the extinguisher to ensure it’s still full and examine the pressure gauge of the extinguisher:
- Needle within the green zone indicates it’s good
- Needle in the left red zone indicates that it’s undercharged
- Needle in the right red zone indicates that it’s in danger of being overcharged
#4 Examine the Inspection Tag
Make note if an inspection tag is available. This tag will show when the last inspection was made and indicates whether the extinguisher is regularly checked.
#5 Recommend Action Plan
Once you are done with the inspection, put together your observations to come up with a corresponding action plan in case of any anomalies or issues. Ensure to sign off the inspection tag with the date of inspection.
Report expired service tags and missing, damaged, or used extinguishers as soon as possible.
Fire extinguisher Inspection Keeps You Safe
Performing quick inspections regularly can go a long way to ensure your safety and protection at all times. Having your fire extinguishers checked periodically can help you prevent small fire accidents that can potentially spiral into a massive breakout. Therefore, schedule routine fire extinguisher checks in accordance with the stipulated safety standards to keep your premises compliant.
Besides visual checks, annual fire extinguisher maintenance inspections should also be performed by a fire safety service provider who has the proper tools and expertise to ensure optimal compliance. More than being compliant, it also ensures the safety of your residential or commercial facility.
