Fire extinguishers are a crucial component of fire safety in homes, businesses, and public spaces. These devices can help suppress small fires and prevent them from escalating into catastrophic events. However, to ensure their effectiveness, regular inspections are necessary. Know how often you should hire an extinguisher service Sydney to inspect your fire extinguisher and ensure it’s in optimal working condition.
- Monthly Visual Inspections:
A fundamental part of fire extinguisher maintenance is a monthly visual inspection. This quick check ensures that the extinguisher is readily accessible and has not been tampered with. Here’s what to look for during these monthly inspections:
Accessibility: Ensure that the fire extinguisher is in its designated location and easily accessible. It should not be obstructed by objects or hidden behind furniture.
Pressure Gauge: Check the pressure gauge on the extinguisher. If it’s in the green or “OK” zone, it’s typically in good condition. If the needle falls outside this range, it may need servicing.
Seals and Safety Pins: Verify that the tamper seals and safety pin are intact. If they are broken or missing, it could indicate tampering or use.
Physical Damage: Inspect the exterior of the extinguisher for any visible damage, such as dents, rust, or corrosion. Damaged extinguishers may not function correctly.
- Annual Professional Inspection:
In addition to monthly visual inspections, fire extinguishers should undergo a more thorough annual inspection by a qualified fire protection technician. These professionals are trained to identify and address issues that may not be apparent during visual checks. Here’s what the annual inspection typically includes:
Full Visual Inspection: A technician will perform a detailed examination of the entire extinguisher, looking for signs of damage, corrosion, or other issues.
Pressure Test: They will check the pressure gauge and may perform a pressure test to ensure the extinguisher is pressurised correctly.
Weight Check: The technician will weigh the extinguisher to confirm it contains the appropriate amount of extinguishing agent.
Seal Inspection: The integrity of the tamper seal and safety pin will be verified.
Hose and Nozzle Inspection: If your extinguisher has a hose and nozzle, these components will be examined for damage or blockages.
Recharging if Necessary: If the extinguisher has been discharged or is low on agent, it will be recharged.
- Hydrostatic Testing:
Hydrostatic testing is a more in-depth examination of the extinguisher’s structural integrity and is typically required every five to twelve years, depending on the type of extinguisher and local regulations. This fire extinguisher service Sydney ensures that the extinguisher can withstand the pressure generated when it’s used. Only a certified technician should perform hydrostatic testing.
- After Use or Significant Impact:
Whenever a fire extinguisher is used, even partially, it should be inspected and recharged by a professional. Additionally, if the extinguisher has been dropped, damaged, or subjected to significant impact, it should be inspected immediately, as structural integrity may be compromised.
- Adhere to Local Regulations:
It’s crucial to be aware of and comply with local fire safety regulations, as they may specify different inspection intervals or requirements. Some regions may have more frequent inspection requirements, especially in high-risk environments like industrial facilities.
Fire extinguisher installation Sydney and inspections should always be performed by qualified technicians who are trained to identify and address potential issues. By adhering to these inspection intervals and ensuring your fire extinguishers are in optimal condition, you can enhance fire safety in your home or workplace, potentially preventing small fires from turning into major disasters.