5 Doubts About Fire Extinguisher Testing You Should Clarify

5 Doubts About Fire Extinguisher Testing You Should Clarify

Fire extinguishers are relatively simple machines to use; however, there are a lot of differences between their contents and use. Fire extinguisher testing needs to be done on a regular basis. Before purchasing your extinguisher, you need to ensure you are using the correct type.

When dealing with a fire hazard, fire extinguishers are your first point of defence. You can manage or extinguish more than 90% of all fires with a portable fire extinguisher. That’s why it is important to check a fire extinguisher regularly as it helps save lives. The professional extinguisher testing team will make sure that your fire extinguishers are in working order. This helps you to provide a vital safeguard against future fire risks.

There are several different types of fire extinguishers. Each extinguisher has its purpose and contains unique contents designed to smother different fires. The experts of fire extinguisher servicing technicians are familiar with each kind of extinguisher, as well as how often they need to be tested.

Undoubtedly, all companies have a responsibility to protect their employees. Providing your staff with maintained fire protection equipment will ensure they have the best chance of avoiding harm in an emergency. It is important to reduce damage to your property and remain compliant with workplace safety standards. The timely servicing of fire extinguishers must be conducted by an experienced technician.

Fire Extinguisher Testing

Care and Maintenance of Your Extinguisher

You must inspect your extinguisher at least once a month and also ensure that:

  • The extinguisher is not blocked by tools, coats, or other objects that could interfere with access in an emergency
  • The pressure is considered to be at the recommended level. On extinguishers equipped with a gauge that means the needle needs to be in the green zone that is not too high and not too low
  • No obstructions are in the way of the nozzle
  • There are no dents, leaks, rust, chemical deposits and other signs of abuse/wear
  • Some manufacturers recommend that shaking your dry chemical extinguishers once a month helps to prevent the powder from settling/packing

Fire extinguishers should be pressure tested (a process called hydrostatic testing) after five years to make sure that the cylinder is safe to use. It is essential to consult your owner’s manual, extinguisher label or the producer to see when yours may need such testing.

If the extinguisher is broke or requires refilling, we suggest to replace it immediately.

How often do I need fire extinguisher maintenance?

According to the regulatory authorities, fire extinguisher test and refill services need to occur at the following intervals:

  • All portable and wheeled fire extinguishers require testing every 6 months
  • Pressure testing and refills need to be carried out at least once every 5 years

The fire extinguisher tag should only be circulated by a trained individual. The technicians are supported by membership with the Fire Protection Association. They ensure that the safety testing staff have access to the support and ongoing training they require to provide reliable fire protection.

Test fire extinguisher devices in your workplace today

During fire extinguisher inspections, a professional team will check for cracks or imperfections in the cylinder lining. They also look for any corrosion that may indicate the need for a replacement cylinder. Your local fire safety technician will perform a detailed inspection and testing procedures according to the regulatory standards.

The following items cover the checks the professional technicians perform before applying fire extinguisher service tags:

  • Accessibility
  • Anti-tamper device
  • Exterior & instruct
  • Service tag
  • External damage
  • External corrosion
  • Outlet hose assembly
  • Pressure indicator
  • Contents full charge
  • Signage
  • Support bracket
  • Discharge nozzle
  • Weight

Friendly and Effective Service

You’ll also find that experienced technicians will take care of everything in their tests. They’ll substantiate that your extinguishers are compliant in terms of signage, weight, service tags, accessibility and more. This shows that your extinguishers are compliant and ready to use.

Why should you choose Professionals fire extinguisher testing?

The experienced fire extinguisher testing service covers a data management system that takes care of your extinguisher testing records. They offer each of the clients a document that details the status of each device they test. Every item on the report corresponds to the fire extinguisher tagging the technicians carry out on-site.

The Local Guys Test & Tag, the experts in electrical safety, specialise in comprehensive electrical safety testing. Offering risk assessments for premises, advice on safety switches, electrical circuit safety, and conduct testing and tagging for portable appliances and equipment. Providing a free service quote, contact The Local Guys Test & Tag for further information.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information we strongly advise that any electrical work or modifications be carried out by a licensed and qualified professional electrician. The content of this blog should not be considered as a substitute for professional advice or consultation. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk.

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