Hopefully, you’ll never need to use your fire extinguishers, and they’ll just sit in your building or home and collect dust over the years. Even if you don’t need to use your extinguishers, though, they still require a bit of TLC to ensure they’ll work in case of an emergency.
Keep reading to learn more about all of the necessary fire extinguisher maintenance you or a professional must perform to stay in good standing under the law.
Visual inspections
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) stipulates that all employers must perform a visual inspection of their fire extinguishers once a month. These visual inspections confirm that the unit is in the proper location and that it’s within easy reach. Additionally, you can confirm that the extinguisher is fully charged and free of damage.
Maintenance inspections
OSHA mandates that a fire protection professional must perform a full inspection at least once a year. This type of maintenance involves a thorough examination of the unit and makes any necessary repairs.
Once the extinguisher passes the examination, it’s given a dated inspection tag that indicates the equipment is compliant with OSHA standards for another year.
Neglecting to schedule this professional maintenance can result in some hefty fines—so be sure to mark your calendar for annual fire extinguisher maintenance!
Internal maintenance inspection
Depending on the equipment you have, a professional must also perform an internal inspection every five, six or 12 years.
Pressurized water, carbon dioxide and wet chemical extinguishers need service every five years, while dry chemical models need to be serviced every six years. Once every 12 years, a dry chemical extinguisher also requires a hydrostatic test to ensure the model is structurally sound.
Regardless of the extinguisher type, the process involves discharging the extinguisher and performing a thorough examination of the unit. We’ll then recharge the extinguisher to return it to like-new condition.
Why should you choose us to service your extinguishers?
Professionals obviously need to perform some of your routine fire extinguisher service, but don’t just pick the first company you find online. Here are a few reasons to trust Raider Fire Protection:
- Reliable results: We have decades of industry experience, so when you work with our team, you can trust that your extinguishers will be in tip-top shape once we’re finished with the internal or external maintenance call.
- Fast response time: You can’t wait around to have your extinguishers serviced, and that’s not an issue when you hire us. We’ll arrive as soon as possible to service all of your units.
- Affordable pricing: Staying compliant with your fire extinguishers shouldn’t cost a fortune. When you hire us, you can expect to pay a fair rate for our services. Get a quote today to see how affordable it is!
Whether you operate a business or you’re a homeowner, be sure to call Raider Fire Protection for your necessary fire extinguisher service. In addition to performing routine maintenance, we also sell any type of extinguisher your property may need.