How often should a fire extinguisher be inspected?

The recommended practice for fire extinguisher inspection emphasizes that they should be checked monthly by trained personnel. This routine check is crucial to ensure that the extinguishers are in good working condition, properly located, and easily accessible in the event of an emergency. During these inspections, personnel should examine physical conditions such as checking for visible damage, ensuring pressure gauges are in the correct zone, and verifying that safety seals are intact.

In addition to monthly inspections, fire extinguishers require annual maintenance conducted by certified professionals. This thorough examination goes beyond the brief monthly checks, ensuring that the extinguisher fully complies with safety standards and is operationally effective. The annual maintenance includes more detailed inspections and necessary servicing or recharging of the extinguisher, ensuring readiness in case of a fire emergency.

The combination of regular monthly inspections by trained individuals and comprehensive annual checks by certified professionals provides a robust strategy for fire safety, ensuring that fire extinguishers will function properly when needed.