Portable fire extinguisher inspection is extremely important for the protection of every business. The reality is that most business owners find it easy to simply forget about their portable fire extinguishers. After all, they just sit in your workplace day after day “just in case” you ever need them which of course you hope you never will. Even though your portable fire extinguishers may not always be a top priority in your mind, there is nothing worse than needing a fire extinguisher in an emergency only to discover that it isn’t charged and doesn’t work. For this very reason, OSHA and Fire Codes require specific procedures when it comes to fire extinguishers in the workplace. Depending on the type of inspection being performed, there are different recommendations and requirements for the time between inspections. This 2 part series of articles will address the three primary ways fire extinguishers need to be inspected / tested, and the schedule for each. Part 1 addressed monthly and annual requirements. Part 2 addresses periodic requirements including hydrostatic testing.
Periodic Internal Maintenance Inspection – ~ Every 5, 6, or 12 Years (depending on equipment type)
Periodic internal maintenance also requires the services of a professional fire protection company. Internal maintenance testing involves discharging of the fire extinguisher and a complete internal examination and recharging to insure all components of the fire extinguisher are working correctly. Extinguishers such as the dry chemical type requiring a 12 year hydrostatic test also require a 6 year internal examination.
In addition to or as part of the internal maintenance examination, the fire extinguisher cylinders must be hydrostatically tested to ensure their integrity and ability to safely contain the pressure used to expel the agent.
Typically, pressurized water, carbon dioxide, and wet chemical extinguishers need to be hydrostatically tested every 5 years. Dry chemical extinguishers need to be tested every 12 years. A complete chart of test intervals for various types of equipment can be on the osha.gov website.
Proper testing and maintenance of your workplace’s portable fire extinguishers does more than fulfill some OSHA and NFPA requirements—it ensures the safety of your employees and your business.
The Jay L Harman Fire Equipment team understands your firefighting needs and is ready to help
Jay L Harman’s DOT Hydrostatic Testing facility and equipment meet all NFPA requirements for the hydrostatic testing of self contained breathing apparatus compressed gas cylinders in addition to testing ABC portable fire extinguisher cylinders.
Jay L Harman is the best and one of the biggest firefighting equipment suppliers and service providers in the region, specializing in fire suppression systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, fire hoses, hydrostatic testing and more. Serving El Paso TX, Las Cruces NM and the surrounding areas, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible.
Jay L Harman Fire Equipment is your go-to distributor for OVAL low-profile fire extinguishers in West Texas and New Mexico.
Contact Jay L. Harman Fire Equipment in El Paso TX at 915-533-7021 or Las Cruces NM at 575-523-8880..
Since 1925, we have protected businesses throughout the area from the harms and hazards of fires. Every Jay L Harman technician is licensed and regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance State Fire Marshal’s Office. Each of these technicians continually receives the most up-to-date factory training and certifications by our manufacturers. Contact Jay L Harman Fire Equipment today. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff tell you more about our fire suppression systems and help you find the ideal fire suppression system for your needs. Learn more about our full offering of fire extinguisher training, firefighting services, firefighting products, request a quote, ask a question or request additional information.