What Maintenance Does Your Fire Extinguisher Need?
To ensure compliance with safety regulations in your commercial building, it is imperative to schedule regular maintenance visits for fire extinguishers through a reputable inspection company, like Blizzard Fire Protection. Fire extinguishers necessitate monthly maintenance to guarantee their functionality when required most.
Why is fire extinguisher maintenance crucial?
In the event of a fire, only moments are available before a small blaze can escalate and potentially consume an entire building. When such an emergency occurs, the presence of a malfunctioning or partially filled fire extinguisher is the last scenario one would wish to encounter. Regular maintenance of fire extinguishers can significantly influence the extent of fire damage sustained by a commercial property, determining whether the incident results in isolated or widespread destruction.
Why do fire extinguishers need recharging?
The internal pressure of a fire extinguisher is a critical factor in its ability to suppress fires effectively. Consequently, it is imperative to ensure that the fire extinguisher remains fully charged and readily accessible for immediate use. Recharging the fire extinguisher is necessary under the following circumstances:
The fire extinguisher was employed recently to extinguish a fire.
The fire extinguisher was discharged unintentionally.
The fire extinguisher underwent a recent performance test.
The pressure gauge indicates that the extinguisher is operating at low pressure.
Since fire extinguishers are essential during the critical moments following a fire outbreak, they must receive regular maintenance. Engaging the services of a qualified fire protection contractor will ensure that fire extinguishers are properly recharged and prepared for any emergencies.
What happens during a monthly fire extinguisher inspection?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requires all fire extinguishers be inspected monthly. A fire safety inspector first checks if fire extinguishers are conveniently located and easily accessible. The inspector will also check that the fire extinguisher device is completely charged and that you are using the right fire extinguisher for your building’s specific fire hazards.
A fire extinguisher inspection also includes checking the manufacture date of the device and records of previous maintenance visits. The fire extinguisher will be checked for physical damage, and any necessary fire extinguisher repairs will be done to ensure it’s in working order. At the end of the inspection, a new tag with the inspection date will be put on the extinguisher.
