Monthly Fire Extinguisher Inspection:
Did you know that in addition to the annual inspection and maintenance that is required for portable fire extinguishers a monthly inspection should also be performed.
However, unlike the annual maintenance that must be done by a trained and licensed portable fire extinguisher technician almost anyone, with minimum knowledge, can perform a “quick check” monthly inspection.
Additionally, it is usually a good idea that the monthly inspection job be assigned to one person who performs the inspection on or near the same day every month.
Monthly Inspection Procedure:
- Know where all of the portable fire extinguisher should be located and document any missing extinguishers so that they may be replaced.
- When approaching the extinguisher check that it is easily seen and not blocked by equipment or other objects that could interfere with access in an emergency.
- Check that the operating instructions on the nameplate are facing outward and are legible.
- Make sure that the pin and safety seal or tamper indicator are intact and not broken.
- The pressure is at the recommended level. On extinguishers equipped with a gauge the needle should be in the green zone - not too high and not too low.
- Examine the extinguisher for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzle.
- While you are examining the extinguisher feel the weight, does the unit feel full?
- Is the Hazardous Materials Identification System (HMIS) Label in place?
- Look at the maintenance tag attached to the extinguisher and verify that the last maintenance date was not more than 12 months ago.
- If all of the above conditions are met, initial and date the back of the tag.
When an inspection of any fire extinguisher reveals a deficiency in any of the conditions listed above, immediate corrective action should be taken.
Call Firetronics at (770) 922-0752