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The monthly checks should be documented. Also, the fire extinguisher should be inspected and certified annually by a fire protection equipment company. A complete breakdown and internal inspection must be done every 6 years. Both the annual and 6 year inspections shall be done by a fire protection equipment company.

As a fire protection company, one of the most common questions we get asked is, Are businesses allowed to perform their own fire extinguisher inspection? The simple answer is, yes.

Is the extinguisher in the correct location? Is it visible and accessible? Does the gauge or pressure indicator show the correct pressure?

The monthly checks should be documented. Also, the fire extinguisher should be inspected and certified annually by a fire protection equipment company. A complete breakdown and internal inspection must be done every 6 years. Both the annual and 6 year inspections shall be done by a fire protection equipment company.

Visual Fire Extinguisher Inspections Once per Month According to OSHA [29 CFR 1910.157(e)(2), employers must perform a visual inspection on portable fire extinguishers at least once per month. This is also a good benchmark for homeowners to follow.

Check these details during a monthly fire extinguisher inspection. Confirm the extinguisher is visible, unobstructed, and in its designated location. Verify the locking pin is intact and the tamper seal is unbroken. Examine the extinguisher for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzle.

As a rough guide, extinguishers should be discharge tested every 5 years for water, foam and powder and 10 years for CO2. Sometimes known as an extended service or, for CO2, an overhaul service. The test makes sure they actually work and are in good condition internally.

Examine the extinguisher for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzle. Confirm the pressure gauge or indicator is in the operable range or position, and lift the extinguisher to ensure it is still full. Make sure the operating instructions on the nameplate are legible and facing outward.

The monthly inspections are visual only and can be performed by the homeowner or a company's maintenance or safety personnel. These inspections ensure the extinguisher is undamaged, the hose is not blocked, the safety seal is unbroken and the operating instructions are legible.

Visual Fire Extinguisher Inspections Once per Month According to OSHA [29 CFR 1910.157(e)(2), employers must perform a visual inspection on portable fire extinguishers at least once per month. This is also a good benchmark for homeowners to follow.