Staying Compliant with Fire Extinguisher Inspections
Whether you’re in a warehouse, an office building, restaurant or HOA Condo Association, staying compliant with fire extinguisher inspections is critically important to the ongoing safety of property, staff and assets. In Florida, annual inspections of fire extinguishers by a licensed third party is a legal requirement but this should also be part of every business/housing entity’s Fire Safety Plan. Regular inspections will determine if the fire extinguishers are still operational and able to function adequately should a fire occur. Failing to maintain and inspect fire extinguishers at regular intervals isn’t just risky to property and personal safety, but to neighboring business or homes that may be harmed should a fire occur in your location. Bottom Line: It’s vital that the fire extinguishers work, when they are needed!
The State of Florida’s Fire Code and the NFPA – both of whom provide guidelines for fire safety – state that annual inspection of fire extinguishers must be carried out by a competent, licensed third party and every fire extinguisher should be clearly tagged with a valid and up to date certified, inspection tag.
How Often Should Fire Extinguishers Be Inspected
- When delivered and installed (by a certified company)
- Monthly (visual inspection)
- Annually (by a certified company)
Things To Look For or Know About Fire Extinguisher Inspections:
- Visually inspect fire extinguisher for signs of damage, rust, or general wear and tear.
- Is it installed correctly in the right area and is easily visible and accessible?
- When checking the pressure gauge, make sure it is in the green zone.
- Are the operating instructions clearly visible?
- Verify that the locking pin/anti-tamper seals are present and not broken.
- Does it have a valid, up-to-date inspection tag?
- Is the handle damaged or broken?
- Is the hose nozzle ripped, damaged or appear blocked?
- Is there a certification tag in place?
Fire extinguishers that are set in harsh environments such as construction sites, dusty areas, areas that have exposure to sun or ultraviolet rays or areas with extreme moisture or temperature may need more regular inspection/maintenance checks.
Peace of mind is especially important when dealing with the potential and devastating threat of fire. Having an established maintenance plan with a fire protection company will not only give you peace of mind but keep you compliant with current legal regulations.
Contact the Fire Ranger Team for more information on signing up for their annual maintenance program at (954) 566-5430 or online at www.FireRanger.com.
