A fire extinguisher inspection is carried out to assess the state of the fire extinguishers, which involves both their maintenance and testing.
A scheduled fire extinguisher inspection is conducted by an external safety expert or the organization’s safety officer as part of a comprehensive fire safety plan. Performing a fire extinguisher inspection is the most effective way to ensure that your fire extinguisher will work properly during an emergency.
Let’s explore what fire extinguisher inspection services are and their benefits with VIS!
What is Fire extinguisher inspection service?
A fire extinguisher inspection assesses the condition of fire extinguishers and involves both maintenance and testing. This inspection is typically carried out monthly by a safety professional or an organization’s safety officer as part of broader fire safety measures.
More than 90% of fires in commercial buildings are quickly managed by individuals using fire extinguishers. A single defective fire extinguisher can endanger many lives. It is essential for a safety officer to conduct regular fire extinguisher inspections and maintain accurate records to ensure the safety of buildings and their occupants from fire risks. Understanding how to carry out an inspection effectively, recognizing common issues, and knowing how to react appropriately are vital skills for a safety officer.
How often do you need to have a Fire Extinguisher Inspection Service?
Ensuring that your fire extinguishers are fully functional is crucial for an effective fire safety strategy. It’s important to know the location of your fire extinguisher, but if you end up using a faulty one, it poses a significant problem. To ensure your fire extinguishers are ready when needed, regular maintenance should be performed on them similar to vehicle servicing. Your comprehensive fire suppression strategy should be reviewed and updated frequently to guarantee that all staff members are aware of the systems in place and their operational timelines.
It is essential to routinely inspect every component of your fire extinguisher to confirm that everything is intact and free from damage; this should be done by someone knowledgeable in fire safety protocols at least once a year, with the inspection date recorded.
Addressing maintenance issues with your fire extinguishers promptly instead of opting for equipment replacement can save your organization both time and money. If repairs are too extensive to complete on-site, or if you are in the process of enhancing your fire safety plan, then consider those factors.
How to Perform a Fire Extinguisher Inspection?
When ensuring fire extinguishers are positioned optimally for effective use during emergencies, several factors must be taken into account. Firstly, since various extinguishers address different types of fires, they should be placed according to the potential fire class in the area—such as ordinary fires, electrical fires, or grease fires, among others.
During the monthly inspection of fire extinguishers, it’s essential to adhere to these five main steps:
- Evaluate accessibility.
- Assess the physical condition.
- Review the pressure gauge.
- Check the inspection tag.
- Create a report and suggest an action plan.
Once you know what to monitor, you can complete your inspection safely within three minutes. Here’s a detailed guide on inspecting a fire extinguisher:
Evaluate accessibility
Ensure visibility and ease of access:
- Confirm that a fire extinguisher is available in the space and note its visibility, particularly in high-risk areas.
- It should remain unobstructed by any equipment or objects that could hinder access during an emergency.
- Portable extinguishers, excluding wheeled ones, should be secured in designated spots (like an unlocked glass cabinet or wooden box) to avoid being relocated.
Assess the physical condition
Next, lift the fire extinguisher to inspect its labeling, overall condition, and any defects:
- Locate the fire extinguisher’s serial number and ensure the label is legible.
- Verify that the cylinder and external metal components are free from corrosion, dents, and other damages.
- Ensure the connection between the hose and cylinder is secure.
- Check for cracks in the hose or leaks at the nozzle.
- Verify that the locking pin passes through the holes in both the discharge lever and handle, and ensure that it is firmly secured by the seal. This pin secures the discharge lever to prevent accidental activation.
Examine the pressure gauge
Check the position of the gauge needle. If it is within the green zone, everything is functioning properly. A needle in the left red zone indicates the fire extinguisher needs recharging due to undercharging, while a needle in the right red zone suggests a risk of overcharging.
Check for the inspection tag
Confirm the presence of an inspection tag. This tag should show that the fire extinguisher has undergone regular inspections.
Prepare a report and suggest an action plan
After completing the inspection, compile your findings and recommended actions. Be sure to sign the fire extinguisher inspection tag (if present) along with your name and the date of the inspection.
Conclusion
Fire extinguishers are crucial for ensuring safety at both homes and businesses. It is important to maintain your fire extinguisher properly; otherwise, it might not function effectively in the event of a fire.
We highly advise that you have your fire extinguisher serviced on a regular basis. Regular maintenance guarantees that it will work correctly when needed during an emergency. With flexible regulations, pre-set and customized inspections, along with efficient automations, you can ensure the seamless operation of your equipment while also lowering expenses.
Failing to keep up with inspection schedules can lead to significant fines, jeopardize employee safety, and increase the likelihood of machinery malfunctions.
For free advice and support, feel free to contact VIS today!
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