How Often Do Fire Extinguishers Need to Be Inspected?

If you operate a commercial or industrial building, chances are you know that fire extinguishers need to be installed according to national, state and local regulations. Hopefully, you also know that those fire extinguishers need to be inspected regularly, in order to ensure they’re ready for action when you need them most.

How often do fire extinguisher inspections need to occur in Longview, TX? OSHA and fire codes have regulations to guide you, but generally, you should plan on getting or performing an inspection every month. Here’s a guide to performing monthly inspections, and when to call professionals for maintenance inspections.

Monthly inspections

You should perform a monthly visual inspection of all your fire extinguishers. You’re going to evaluate whether the extinguisher has any signs of damage, whether it’s properly charged and if it’s accessible in the event of a fire.

First, check to make sure there are no dents, corrosion or other damage to the outside container, the hose and the nozzle. If there’s a leak in the hose, the extinguisher won’t distribute its contents properly in case of an actual fire.

Next, look for the pull-pin on the handle and make sure it’s still intact. Then check the gauge—is the needle pointing in the green “optimal” zone? If so, everything is fine; if not, you’ll need a professional to recharge your equipment.

Finally, check the tag to see when the last professional fire extinguisher inspection in Longview, TX took place. Then flip the tag over, write the monthly inspection date down and initial it.

Maintenance inspections

OSHA requires employers to get a basic professional maintenance inspection every year. Hire a professional fire protection company to remain in compliance—they’ll conduct a thorough inspection of all of your facility’s fire extinguishers. If the extinguisher passes inspection, they’ll attach a new tag that delineates when the last inspection was performed. If it doesn’t pass, you’ll need to replace the extinguisher with a new one or get it repaired, if possible.

Finally, internal fire extinguisher inspections in Longview, TX should occur every five, six or 12 years, depending on the type of extinguisher you’re using. Dry chemical extinguishers require both six- and 12-year inspections. The inspector will test the internal cylinder and make sure the contents are still safely operational. Be sure to retain any and all inspection documentation for your records.

Maintaining your fire extinguishers is not only required by law, but it also guarantees that you won’t be surprised by a malfunctioning extinguisher during a fire or other high-pressure situation. Take the time to protect your and your employees’ lives by performing inspections as needed.

Fire extinguisher inspections in Longview, TX

Anchor Safety Inc. offers fire extinguisher inspections in Longview, TX as part of our comprehensive fire safety products and consultation services. When it’s time to inspect your building’s fire suppression systems, be sure to call us. We also offer fire extinguishers for purchase, along with a full array of fire safety and suppression products—call today to get started.

Categorised in: Fire Extinguishers

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