OSHA requirements for portable fire extinguishers are detailed in standard 1910.57 which states that a visual inspection is required on all portable fire extinguishers monthly, and a mandatory inspection performed by a certified and trained fire extinguisher professional annually.
NFPA10 also details the requirements for fire extinguishing systems as outlined by the National Fire Protection Association. NFPA 10 outlines four categories of portable fire extinguisher inspections; monthly, annually, 6-year testing and hydrostatic inspections.
Monthly Visual Fire Extinguisher Inspections
The monthly inspections may be performed by the homeowner or building owner, and should be recorded on the tags on the extinguisher. Each fire extinguisher will have a tag for the annual maintenance check to be recorded, with the back of the tag showing a 12-month grid for recording monthly inspections, usually with the initials of the person doing the inspection. It is important to be very diligent about the recording of these inspections, as OSHA will cite a company for lackluster record keeping.
Your monthly internal visual inspections should include checking the following:
- Hose to be sure it is not blocked
- Safety seal to ensure it is unbroken
- Pressure gauge to verity that your extinguisher is fully charged
- Instructions are still legible
Annual Fire Extinguisher Inspections
Annual fire extinguisher inspections are required to be performed by a certified professional licensed in your state to service portable fire extinguishing systems. This annual inspection is more in depth than the monthly visual inspections with a professional required to check the mechanical parts of the extinguisher, the delivery system and the fire-suppression agent.
Annual inspections are required to be recorded on the accompanying tag as evidence of compliance to these inspections.
Fire Extinguisher Service Companies in Chicago
High Rise Security Systems is a fire extinguisher service and supply company licensed in the state of Illinois, providing experienced service for any type of commercial building and structure. We have in depth knowledge of all national and local codes and requirements, ensuring that your building is protected above and beyond the required regulations.
HRSS will design your fire and safety system, with the proper placement of sensors, alarms, evacuation procedures and location of portable fire extinguishers. Servicing fire safety systems for commercial property in cities like Chicago requires additional experience in regulations required of high rise buildings and campuses.
High Rise Security Systems is an experienced and knowledgeable fire and safety system consulting firm, providing system design, implementation, maintenance, repair and monitoring 24/7/365 to any size of structure in and around the Chicago area. Contact us today for all your fire and safety system needs, including fire extinguisher inspection tag requirements.
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