Keeping your fire extinguishers in good working order isn’t just smart—it’s required. Whether you manage an office, warehouse, apartment complex, or restaurant, regular fire extinguisher inspections help protect lives, property, and keep your business compliant with local and national fire safety codes.
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Monthly Visual Inspections (Required by NFPA 10)
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 10), fire extinguishers must be visually inspected once a month. This can be done by a building manager, maintenance staff, or safety coordinator. You should check:
- The extinguisher is in its designated place
- It’s easily accessible and visible
- The pressure gauge reads in the operable range
- The safety seal is intact
- No damage, corrosion, or leakage
👉 Tip: Use a checklist or inspection tag to record the date and initials of the person performing the check.
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Annual Professional Inspection
Once a year, fire extinguishers must be professionally inspected by a certified technician. This inspection includes:
- Internal and external condition of the extinguisher
- Hose and nozzle integrity
- Verification of the correct type and weight of extinguishing agent
- Testing the mechanical parts, labeling, and tamper seals
- Tagging with a dated certification
Failing to do this may result in fire code violations and invalid insurance claims.
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Hydrostatic Testing (Every 5, 6, or 12 Years)
Some extinguishers need pressure testing to ensure the cylinder is safe to use:
- Dry chemical extinguishers: Every 12 years
- CO₂ extinguishers: Every 5 years
- Stored pressure water or wet chemical: Every 5 years
- Cartridge-operated units: May require testing every 5 or 12 years depending on the type
This is a more in-depth test and is typically performed by a licensed service company.
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Recharging & Replacement
You should recharge your fire extinguisher after any use, even partial discharge. Additionally, if an extinguisher fails inspection or testing, it must be replaced immediately.
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Why It Matters for Businesses
- 🧾 Regulatory Compliance: Avoid fines or shutdowns due to missed inspections.
- 🛡 Liability Protection: Documented inspections can protect you in case of fire incidents.
- 🔥 Real Fire Readiness: An extinguisher is only useful if it works in an emergency.
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Schedule Your Next Inspection
If you’re in Washington and need annual fire extinguisher inspections or servicing, SafeFireCheck.com makes it easy to schedule, track, and maintain your fire safety equipment with certified technicians. Reach out to us today!